The Increasing Interest in Clear Aligners in Türkiye: A Google Trends™ Analysis

Aim: This study aims to comparatively examine the public interest in clear aligners versus fixed orthodontic treatments in Türkiye. Using Google Trends™ (GT) data, the analysis seeks to identify treatment preferences and trends within the population, guiding strategic decisions in clinical and educational domains. Material and Methods: GT data for the search terms “Invisalign” and “Orthodontic brackets” in Türkiye between 2019 and 2024 were collected and normalized (0–100). Statistical analyses were conducted using IBM SPSS 21, employing parametric tests for normally distributed data and non-parametric tests otherwise. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Results: The findings revealed that public interest in clear aligners was significantly higher than in fixed orthodontic treatments (p<0.05). Over the years, searches for clear aligners increased by 20%, whereas searches for fixed braces decreased by 4%. These trends highlight how the advantages of aligners, including aesthetics, comfort, and convenience, influence patient preferences. Conclusion: This study reveals that interest in Invisalign treatment is increasing in Türkiye and aligns with global trends. It is recommended that clinical practices and educational curricula be adapted to incorporate these technologies. Although digital platforms offer opportunities for information access, their use should be encouraged cautiously due to concerns about misinformation and commercial influence.