Pearls of the Pacific Limiting Flash When Placing Clear Aligner Attachments Attachments are critical to the success of certain types of tooth movement during clear aligner therapy. Overfilled attachment wells and inaccurate placement of these attachments, however, can lead to unsightly pancake flash around the attachment, causing variable tooth movements Dr. Ronald Chung Rancho Palos Verdes, CA and tracking issues. Also, when flash is present, more time is required to remove the affiliated attachments at a refinement or debond appointment. When delivering attachments, use this technique to help limit the amount of flash. Step 1: Slightly underfill the attachment well with composite; using an instrument, gently pack composite material (Figure 1). Step 3: Place and seat attachment template against etched and primed enamel; light cure attachment. ➙ Winter 2017 PCSO Bulletin Figure 1: Attachment well filled with macro-filled composite ➙ Figure 2: Place a small drop of flowable composite over macro-filled composite. ➙ Step 2: Place a small drop of flowable composite over the packed composite (Figure 2). Allow micro-filled composite to flow over the entire portion of the attachment that will contact enamel (Figure 3). Figure 3: Allow micro-filled composite to flow over the entire surface of the attachment that will contact enamel. Place attachment template and light cure. 67