When using pontic aligners, a virtual pontic may simply be left as an empty space. However, if a more tooth-like appearance is desired, there are two main methods to consider:
Pontic Aligner Paint Technique
To simulate the appearance of a natural tooth, the interior of the aligner void can be painted using a special pontic aligner paint. This paint is a light-curable paste available in various shades that can be blended to closely match the color of adjacent teeth. Here's how to apply it:
- Preparation: Adhere to the manufacturer's instructions for preparation before application.
- Application: Use a bristle brush to apply 3-4 coats of the pontic paint. Brush over each coat several times to ensure even coverage.
- Curing: After each application, cure the paint with an LED light for 10 seconds at close range, following the manufacturer's guidelines.
- Final Curing: Once the final coat has been applied and cured, perform one last cure for 20 seconds from both the front (labial) and back (lingual) sides of the aligner
Pontic Aligner Fill Technique
Alternatively, the void in the aligner can be filled with a tooth-colored composite, instead of painting. This method involves:
- Microetching: Microetch the inside of the aligner at the pontic site to prepare the surface.
- Bonding: Apply a bonding resin and cure it using light.
- Composite Application: Add a thin layer of flowable composite on the interior facial (intaglio) side of the aligner.
For both techniques, it's crucial to ensure that the materials used (paint or composite) do not contact the adjacent teeth, as this could lead to misalignment or other treatment disruptions.