Effect of vibrational forces from acceledent on dentoalveolar surface temperature during clear aligner therapy: an infrared thermography study

Mechanical vibration devices such as AcceleDent have been marketed as non-invasive adjuncts capable of accelerating orthodontic tooth movement. The proposed mechanism involves the stimulation of cellular activity and bone remodeling. The aim of this study was to determine whether the use of AcceleDent, in combination with clear aligner therapy, produces a measurable increase in the surface temperature of intraoral tissues. Twenty-two adult patients (mean age: 39 ± 15 years) undergoing orthodontic treatment with clear aligners (Invisalign) participated in this crossover study. Infrared thermography (A35, FLIR, Wilsonville, USA) was used to record temperature measurements of gingival and dental surfaces. Each participant underwent two experimental conditions on separate days: (1) wearing the AcceleDent device while active (vibrating) and (2) wearing the same device inactive (non-vibrating). After a 20-minute thermal acclimatization period, the device was applied for 20 min before imaging. No statistically significant differences were observed in surface temperature between the vibrating and non-vibrating conditions (Gingiva: p = 0.69; Tooth: p = 0.76). Likewise, no significant differences were detected at baseline between the two sessions (Gingiva: p = 0.35; Tooth: p = 0.57). The use of AcceleDent vibration during clear aligner therapy does not result in an increase in the surface temperature of gingival or dental tissues, as measured by infrared thermography. This study provides evidence that AcceleDent vibration does not produce thermal changes in intraoral tissues, suggesting it is thermally safe for use alongside clear aligners. Infrared thermography may serve as a non-invasive tool to monitor physiological effects of orthodontic devices.