What are Yellow Light Cases?

Knowing the correct approach to pick easy orthodontics cases isn’t always the simplest, and if you are a new general dentist just getting started in offer ortho services with clear aligners, knowing the difficulty of each different treatment is vital. Luckily, we’ve outlined some of the main things you need to know about “yellow light” cases as follows – situations that may need a slightly more cautious approach.

What are Yellow Light Cases?

When it comes to orthodontics, not all cases are necessarily easy, nor can they be tackled with just any clear aligner brand. Here at Straight Smile Solutions, we refer to many of these cases as yellow light cases, or “warning” cases – situations in which you should only consider progressing if you have the support of a professional, qualified orthodontist on your side. This is especially true for your first fifty cases or so, and you should continue to get support until you are extremely advanced with orthodontics, including braces, clear aligners, and Phase 1.

Examples of Yellow Light Cases

If you see any of the following in your clinic, there’s a good chance they’re yellow light cases and will need support from a professional orthodontist to tackle them safely.

• Mixed dentition cases
• Slight Class 2 cases (molars and canines up to 4mm)
• Edge to edge anterior crossbite
• Deep bite and overbite cases (where more than 50% of the lower incisors are covered)
• Open bite cases in children, provided that the etiology is diagnosed and treated first (always get an OMT to do a functional evaluation and sign off the case in writing and ensure habits are controlled before starting)
• Mild periodontal disease with past attachment loss, provided that a 1-month evaluation is completed and charted first and that pockets are 3mm or less
• Posterior crossbite cases in children under 15 years old (don’t tackle this in adults!)

Keeping these tips in mind should help you decide whether or not to take on a case. If you’re unsure, don’t panic; our orthodontics experts here at Straight Smile Solutions can help you choose the right approach for your yellow light cases.

As a general dentist venturing into the orthodontics world, understanding the different types of cases you might be presented with is hugely important. This can significantly impact your choice of clear aligners and can determine whether you’ll be tackling easy orthodontics or more difficult cases. As such, today’s brief guide has outlined some of the main things you should know about “green light cases” to help make selection easier.
What are Green Light Cases?
Green light cases are great examples of easy orthodontics treatments that are simple and straightforward to tackle. These cases are great options for new general dentists to take who are just getting started in the ortho field. Plus, you can use almost any clear aligner systems for these cases.
Examples of Green Light Cases
Green light cases can include patients who fit into the following examples:
– Class 1 molars and canines
– No missing or impacted teeth (excluding 3rd molars)
– No history of periodontal disease
– Moderate or mild crowding or spacing (6mm or less)
– Minor overbite and deepbite cases between 10% and 70%
– No openbites or crossbites
Usually, these will be permanent teeth cases or relapses. They are very quick and simple to address and make for incredibly easy orthodontics cases while you’re learning the ropes.

Getting Good Outcomes With More Effective Treatment Planning: The Dentist Drives the Bus!


When it comes to treatment planning, as an orthodontics professional, ensuring you are “at the helm” when it comes to your patient’s care is essential. Indeed, dentists need to drive the aligner treatment planning bus, as it were, to achieve good results. However, all too many people assume that, because clear aligners are so easy to use, they should leave things up to their technicians. This is actually a potentially major mistake, and we’ve outlined several key reasons why as follows.
Don’t Just Rely on Your Technicians for Treatment Planning
It’s tempting, especially when things are busy, to simply rely on your technicians for treatment planning. However, your technicians are not thoroughly trained when it comes to orthodontics treatment planning, and usually, their focus is on quantity (not necessarily quality). After all, they have quotas to meet.
In line with this, ensuring that you are telling technicians how a treatment plan should look for an individual patient is vital. To start with, good case selection is clearly essential, as the technicians are unlikely to refuse a case just because it’s difficult; green cases are the best bets here and can work with any aligner brand (you may need to double it).
From there, proper treatment planning is essential. If you are unsure about how to treatment plan for individual patients, partnering with a professional orthodontics advisory team, such as ours here at Straight Smile Solutions, can really help.
Always ensure every case also has an accountability loop (virtual loops are common these days). Patients need very clear instructions and verbiage for their aligners to work effectively and be used correctly. Tracking photos are especially important here, at minimum once every three aligners, to ensure that the patient’s progress is continuing as expected. So, don’t chance it; always keep this in mind to ensure better results.

When completing Invisalign and clear aligner cases, it’s crucial to know when you need additional attachments on the incisors – and if the teeth are incredibly slippery and hard to grab, this may well be needed for your needs. In line with this, we’ve outlined some key things you need to know to help.
When You Need Additional Aligner Attachments in Invisalign / Clear Aligner Cases
If you are trying to intrude, extrude, or rotate the incisors, there’s a good chance that these will be incredibly slippery. In this scenario, you may need a handle or additional attachments on the teeth to keep everything in place.
When Do I Need Additional Attachments?
It’s not always clear if you should add additional attachments, but the best way to determine this is often to work the case up to ideal. Then, using the double it philosophy, get the movements, and check the tooth movement table. If this shows extrusions or rotations on the incisors, it may be worth adding an extra attachment.
Premolars and canines usually have a height of contour, which helps ensure they generally have better attachment anyway. For these, you may want to rely more heavily on the TMA alongside the TMT. This allows you to complete a movement assessment; if this shows a complicated movement, usually with a black or blue dot, you’ll almost certainly want to add an attachment (unless it’s an intrusion case).
However, if the case is borderline but does require extrusion or rotation, it isn’t always clear whether you should use extra Invisalign or clear aligner attachments. If the score is around 0.05, you probably won’t need extra, but 0.5 scores may need more attachments (or monitor the tooth to see whether it moves as expected or if it goes off track, in which case, you’ll need an extra attachment).

Using BIG ALIGNER BRAND Resources to help Identify Cases for Alternative or White Label Aligners
I. Introduction
Dr. Amanda from StraightSmile Solutions. In today’s intro, I want to delve into the world of using existing big aligner brands—although I won’t name them—specifically their free treatment planning resources. If you’re curious about alternative aligner companies or white-label aligner companies, join my upcoming webinar on May 7th at 7 p.m. Eastern. It’s free, offers two CE units, and you can sign up (limited to 999 attendees). Now, let’s explore how you can leverage the resources of big aligner brands for ideal cases before considering alternative options.
II. Webinar Announcement
A. Date and time: May 7th at 7 p.m. Eastern
B. Location: StraightSmileSolutions.com, under “Classes”
C. CE units offered
D. Limited slots (999 people) – first come, first served
E. Recording availability for later viewing
F. Clarification on synchronous vs. on-demand viewing
III. Membership Requirements for Aligner Brands
A. Big Aligner Brand 1 and Big Aligner Brand 2
1. Costs associated with joining
2. Quick vs. class-based registration
B. Recommendation for using Big Aligner Brand 1 for its extensive resources
IV. Utilizing Big Aligner Brand 1 Resources
A. Photo Loader
1. Functionality for cropping and orienting photos
2. Direct import into the dashboard
B. Inface Resources
1. Game-changing tools for various case types
C. Bolton Button
1. Significance in class one case
2. Recommended for determining lower IPR need
D. CBCT Integration
1. Insights on arch expansion and proclination limits
V. Case Workup and Decision-Making
A. Working up cases using the free resources
B. Analyzing options for treatment plans
1. Determining aligner count
2. Consideration of IPR and sequential distalization
C. Exploring the option of transferring cases to alternative aligner companies
D. Caveats and limitations of alternative aligner companies
VI. White Label Aligner Companies
A. Overview of white-label aligner companies
B. Cost structure (per aligner)
C. Considerations before choosing white label
1. Tracking game and accountability loop
2. Importance of virtual resources for check-ins
VII. Webinar Focus and Conclusion
Dr. Amanda from StraightSmile Solutions provides valuable insights into leveraging the resources of major aligner brands, particularly for treatment planning. Emphasizing the use of free tools offered by these brands, she encourages orthodontic professionals to explore options before considering alternative aligner companies or white-label services. The importance of thorough case evaluation, including the consideration of factors like IPR, virtual accountability loops, and adherence to terms and conditions, is highlighted. Dr. Amanda’s intention is not to divert cases from established brands but to empower practitioners with knowledge and options for optimal patient care. For further details, she invites professionals to join her upcoming webinar on May 7th, offering two CE units for attendees.

When Should I Be Retreating for Free?

In some situations, finishing orthodontics cases may not always be as straightforward as it ought to be. This can leave you potentially having to offer free retreatments and revisions as part of your orthodontics service – which can no doubt have a vast impact on your bottom line. But when should you be retreating for free? Well, this largely depends on the paperwork that was completed at the time of booking orthodontics treatments.
What Paperwork Should I Be Completing?
As part of your orthodontics service, ensuring you have provided patients with the necessary information and paperwork is crucial.
A good retainer program is one of the most important aspects of reducing the need for free retreatment in your orthodontics cases. Indeed, a successful retainer program is vital for finishing cases successfully; however, it’s also integral that the patient and staff understand this fully. You’ll also need to ensure the patient signs all of the necessary paperwork and that there is a suitable aftercare plan in place to monitor results when finishing cases. Provided all of these factors are met, the cause of the problems will likely be the patient’s fault for not following instructions, and you usually won’t be liable for providing free retreatments.
Some key questions to ask yourself when determining when you should be retreating for free are:
1. Do you have the right paperwork?
2. Did the patient understand and sign the right paperwork?
3. Do you have a policy, and what does this cover (e.g., warranties, retreatments, breakage, retainer visits, missed visit protocols, etc)?
4. Did the patient understand and sign the right policy?
5. Did you complete thorough documenting?
6. Did your front office contact the patient for their retention appointments / recall?
These questions can help you determine who is at fault in a retreatment case – helping you decide who is liable to pay when finishing cases with retreatment. However, if you have a particularly valuable long-term, high-value patient, you may want to consider offering a free retreatment or a partially-free treatment to thank them for their loyalty and support.
Overall, developing a good after-care policy is essential to reduce the risk of retreatments (and, critically, to protect your business from having to fund these retreatments due to the patient’s fault). However, always keep in mind that, before you retreat (be it paid or for free), any newly arisen or previously missed issues will need fixing first.

Managing Traumatized Teeth in Orthodontics Cases

Tooth trauma can be incredibly common – however, this can potentially complicate your approach to orthodontics treatment planning. In line with this thought, we’ve outlined some of the key things you should know about tackling these cases.
How Long After Trauma to Commence or Resume the Orthodontics Treatment Plan?
If your patient has experienced tooth trauma, you will need to stop or delay orthodontics work to ensure that the treatment plan is tailored to your patient’s needs. However, it’s not necessarily clear how long you should wait, and this can be on a patient by patient basis. As such, it’s often best to defer to their primary care dentist, endodontists, and dental radiologists for professional advice.
You should always get professional advice before tackling orthodontics in a patient with tooth trauma. However, if you see an obvious issue, such as mobility complications a lesion, it’s best to avoid these cases.
Before taking on any tooth trauma cases, always get an informed consent form signed. A section on traumatized teeth is usually included in Invisalign and standard braces informed consent forms.
What to do Post-Trauma
After a patient has experienced tooth trauma, you will want to take an x-ray to look for any signs of fractures, and the tooth will likely want to be taken out of occlusion. If the tooth has mobility, you may also want to splint it (or use a heavy wire in braces). Furthermore, if you are using Invisalign or a similar clear aligner company, you could lock the tooth by blocking it to move just the teeth around it.
Always take an x-ray before and during the treatment plan. X-rays should ideally be taken at two-monthly intervals (at least) to highlight any changes.

Case selection is a crucial when it comes to orthodontics, and in sequential distalization patients, this can have a very significant impact on your success rates with an Invisalign treatment plan (or any brand of clear aligner). In line with this thought, today, we’re looking at some key things you should know about treatment planning and case selection for sequential distalization patients in Invisalign.
The Benefits of Sequential Distalization
There are many benefits of following a sequential distalization treatment plan. Of course, the main benefit is that you won’t have to cut teeth or pull premolars or lower incisors, and there are no risks of pushing teeth through the bone anteriorly or transversally; instead, you are using the hidden space that is already there due to third molar removal.
Case Selection is Critical
While sequential distalization is crucial, this type of treatment plan won’t work for every patient. Critically, case selection is integral. For one thing, after the third molar extraction, try to leave at least, one, two, or three months before starting a sequential distalization treatment plan with Invisalign, which can allow the bone to fill in a little.
Before starting any sequential distalization treatment, check the patient clinically and look at the pano x-ray to ensure there is a retro molar space. Try to stick within limits, too; around 2mm on the lower is the limit we use, although up to 6mm can potentially work on uppers in some cases.
Always be careful with the speed in sequential distalization cases in Invisalign. Remember, these cases will usually be long-haul, and going too fast can result in a perio pocket.
Fortunately, when determining whether you can do sequential distalization, platforms such as Invisalign (and some other clear aligner brands, like ClearCorrect) offer Tooth Movements Tables, which can help you understand spacing better.

Gummy Smiles- Skeletal, Mouth Breathing, VME
I. Introduction
Unlocking the secrets behind gummy smiles is like delving into an art form—one that requires a keen eye and a comprehensive understanding. Dr. Amanda from StraightSmile Solutions takes us on an insightful journey through the intricacies of gummy smiles. From identifying different types to determining treatability, she sheds light on the multifaceted nature of this dental concern. Dr. Amanda explores potential causes, ranging from orthodontic issues to airway problems, providing valuable insights into effective treatments. As we venture deeper into the realm of gummy smiles, Dr. Amanda’s expertise becomes an indispensable guide, unraveling the complexities with clarity and precision. Let’s dive into the world of smiles, where Dr. Amanda from StraightSmile Solutions illuminates the path to a confident, radiant grin.
II. Initial Assessment
A. Importance of partial probing
1. Checking for signs of plaque, infection, and BOP
B. Consideration of crown anatomy
1. Short clinical Crowns and possible laser treatment
C. Differentiating between orthodontic, periodontal, and airway issues
III. Orthodontic Considerations
A. Vertical Maxillary Excess (VME)
1. Definition and genetic factors
2. Detecting VME through cephalometric X-rays
3. Treatment options, including phase one treatment and jaw surgery
B. Intruding teeth and lip Botox as potential solutions
C. Hypermobile lip as a cause of gummy smiles
1. Natural settling over time
2. Optional use of lip Botox
IV. Airway Problems and Mouth Breathing
A. Link between airway issues and gummy smiles
B. Mouth breathing is a distinct cause
1. Fibrous thick tissue and the “mouth breathing gummy smile.”
C. Identifying mouth breathing through partial probing
D. Potential treatments for mouth breathing
1. ENT surgery
2. Expansion
3. Retraining and mouth taping
a. Proper tape selection
b. The significance of tape staying on or falling off
4. Oral myofunctional therapy recommendation
V. Conclusion
When evaluating a gummy smile, it is important to consider all potential causes, including short clinical crowns, vertical maxillary excess, hypermobile lip, and mouth breathing. Treatment plans should match the ideology behind the excess gingival display to succeed. This may involve periodontal procedures, orthodontics, orthognathic surgery, myofunctional therapy, ENT interventions, or a combination. Careful diagnosis through clinical and radiographic examination, probing, lip mobility assessment, and airway evaluation is key to determining suitable therapies. Taking a multidisciplinary approach by consulting various dental and medical specialists can lead to properly treating gummy smiles for improved aesthetics and function.

2024 Mark Costes DSI DSN Freebies StraightSmile Solutions
I. Introduction
Dr. Amanda from StraightSmile Solutions. As we enter 2024, I’m thrilled to share some exciting updates. I create annual content, and this year, I’m especially grateful for my affiliation with the Mark Costus DSN (Digital Smile Network) group, where I serve as faculty. Working alongside some incredible doctors has been an honor. To express my gratitude, DSN members can access exclusive freebies by messaging me on the DSN workspace. One notable offer is a complimentary Allart Case Support Session, a $449 value, detailed on my website. DSN or DSi members can also choose three documents from our store annually. Stay tuned for upcoming webinars, and let’s make 2024 a year of collaboration and growth!
II. Freebies for DSN/DSi Members
A. Accessing freebies
1. Message on DSN workspace
2. Find Dr. Amanda Wilson
3. Alternatively, message on socials with the name
B. Offered freebies as a thank-you
1. Free Allart case support session
2. Redemption process for DSN members
3. Verification of active DSN membership
III. Free Allart Case Support Session
A. Explanation of the service
1. Detailed information on website
2. Assistance with various case types
B. Exclusions from the service
1. No support for jaw surgery cases
2. Exclusion of surgery-related cases like TADs
C. Value of the session
1. Priced at $449
2. Emphasizing it as a one-time offer
D. Process and commitment
1. Continuous support until the case is ready
2. Requirements for scheduling and preparation
a. Questions about the case type
b. Need for intraoral and extraoral photos
c. Recent panoramic X-rays and additional records
3. Guaranteeing customer satisfaction
4. Referral for cases beyond remote assistance
IV. Additional Information on Session
A. Multiple sessions, if necessary
B. Exemption from revisions and refinements
C. Accountability loop and proper treatment planning
D. Assurance of mind-blowing results
E. Credit offered if the case proves too challenging
V. Additional Benefits for DSN DSi Members
A. Document Store privileges
1. Pick three documents per year
2. Flexibility beyond the annual limit
B. Free documents during webinars
1. Upcoming webinars
2. Opportunities for obtaining additional documents
V. Additional Information for Non-DSN or DSi Members
A. Free document giveaways during webinars
B. Upcoming webinars for 2024
1. Thursday session
2. May 7th, 2024 session
C. Invitation for collaboration in webinars
VI. Guarantee and Benefits
A. Assurance of satisfaction
B. No additional charges for revisions and refinements
C. Accountability loop for proper treatment planning
D. Offer of credit for difficult cases or referrals
VII. Conclusion
Dr. Amanda is grateful for being a Mark Costes DSN faculty member (Dental Success Network) and values her association with remarkable doctors. As a token of appreciation, she offers freebies exclusively for DSN members, including a complimentary case support session, emphasizing its one-time nature and comprehensive assistance in preparing orthodontic cases. Dr. Amanda also highlights the value of DSN membership, providing access to three documents from their store. Her commitment to supporting colleagues is evident through her webinars and ongoing contributions. Her dedication to professional growth and collaboration shines through in her annual updates and generous offerings.