Combined self-ligating bracket-aligner orthodontic appliance, method of manufacturing, and treatment using the appliance

A combined self-ligating bracket-aligner orthodontic appliance, comprising:

• at least one self-ligating bracket configured to attach to a tooth having:
• a body portion having a rear side proximal to a gumline, a front side opposite to the rear side, a top side, a bottom side opposite to the top side and two opposing side edges;
• an archwire slot formed transversely across the body portion from the first side of the body portion to an interior portion of the body portion, and across the two opposing side edges, and
• a gate disposed at the front side across the slot to open and close the slot the front side of the self-ligating bracket;
• and
• at least one aligner placed above the self-ligating bracket, wherein an outer surface of the self-ligating bracket is geometrically designed to minimize undercuts and holes, thereby allowing the self-ligating bracket to serve as a direct attachment site for the at least one aligner, wherein the self-ligating bracket functions both as a customized orthodontic bracket and as an aligner attachment, such that the at least one aligner is designed to engage directly with the outer surface of the self-ligating bracket, applying continuous force without passive enclosing over the self-ligating bracket, wherein the self-ligating bracket is configured to resemble conventional box attachments commonly used in aligner therapy, allowing for improved fit, engagement, and force transmission by the aligner;
• wherein the self-ligating bracket design enables its fabrication through 3D printing as a two-piece structure consisting of a bracket body and a gate or a cap, ensuring tooth-specific customization and biomechanical precision, and at least one aligner adapted to be placed in direct contact with and engage the external surfaces of the self-ligating bracket to guide tooth movement.