4D Printing Technology in Clear Aligner Therapy

4D printing refers to the process of creating objects that can change their shape over time, in response to external stimuli such as heat, moisture, light, or other environmental factors. This is achieved by using smart materials, such as shape memory alloys, that are programmed to change their shape when triggered by certain stimuli. The term "4D" refers to the fourth dimension of time, as these objects can change and adapt over time.

Shape memory polymer (SMP) is a type of smart material that can change its shape in response to external stimuli such as heat, light, moisture, or mechanical stress. SMPs are made of a special class of polymers that can be programmed to change their shape, and then revert back to their original shape when the triggering stimulus is removed. This presentation will discuss the clinical applications of 4D printing with shape memory polymer.

Learning Objectives

• Understand the 4D printing
• Recognize the biomechanical advantages of 3D printed aligners with shape memory polymer
• Develop the treatment strategy to utilize the features of 3D printed aligners

Disclosure of Financial and/or Beneficial Interest:
Presenters who have a financial and/or beneficial interest in any product or service related to their presentation are noted and the disclosure listed.

Speaker Disclosure:
None

Length of session:
Each session consisting of lecture and audience questions will last 75 minutes.

Cost:
$0 for all Members

Continuing Education:
Each participant who completes the Webinar will earn 1.25 CE credit.

Continuing Education Disclaimer:
This Continuing Education Program provides attendees with a relevant and rewarding continuing education experience. However, neither the content of a course nor the use of specific products in any program should be construed as indicating endorsement or approval of the views presented or the products used by the AAO or by any of the respective subsidiaries. Speakers are required to disclose to participants any financial, commercial or promotional interest in a product or company that may influence their presentations; however, the AAO shall not be liable for a speaker’s failure to disclose such interest.

Recognition:
American Association of Orthodontists is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider. ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, not does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry. Concerns or complaints about a CE provider may be directed to the provider or the Commission for Continuing Education Provider Recognition at ADA.org/CERP.