Solventum (formerly 3M Health Care) has launched its new 3D printed 3M Clarity Precision Grip Attachments to advance aligner treatment.
Clarity Precision Grip Attachments are compatible with 3M Clarity Aligners. Designed to address a major challenge in aligner treatment, these attachments are durable, accurately shaped, and stain-resistant.
Minnesota-based Solventum said that the attachments could transform aligner treatment by eliminating the time-consuming, technique-sensitive process of creating attachments, and reducing variability in treatment.
Traditional methods can lead to misplaced or malformed attachments, causing unpredictable forces in the treatment plan. In contrast, Clarity Precision Grip Attachments are precisely positioned and shaped, minimising this risk for more consistent, accurate results.
The Clarity Precision Grip Attachments procedure also eliminates the risk of overfilled template resulting in residual cured composite flash on the tooth. Composite flash can attract stains, trap plaque, and interfere with the engagement between the aligner and attachment.
By using alternative bonding agents, Clarity Precision Grip Attachments prevent the creation of composite flash.
The 3D printing method used for Clarity Precision Grip Attachments offers additional advantages. Each attachment is customised to fit the unique anatomy of each patient’s tooth.
The combination of inorganic filler and organic resin, along with advanced post-processing techniques, ensures the attachments are more durable and stain-resistant than traditional composites used in current attachment procedures, the 3M Health Care spinoff said.
Solventum dental solutions president Karim Mansour said: “With the launch of Clarity Precision Grip Attachments, Solventum aims to solve what matters to our customers and change the course of aligner treatment for good.
“We are driven to deliver leading innovations to the dental market and support our customers in creating the beautiful, healthy smiles patients want.”
Solventum was separated from 3M in April 2024 as a standalone company. The aligner attachments provider is now listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).
In September, Solventum launched its V.A.C. Peel and Place Dressing. This integrated dressing and drape can be applied in under two minutes and worn by patients for up to seven days.
