Straumann presents an award-winning complex case using clear aligners from Thomas Hughes, supported by a robust digital workflow and clinical support.
Complex orthodontic cases often present a clinical challenge, particularly when patients are averse to traditional fixed braces after previous negative experiences.
A recent award-winning case by Dr. Thomas Hughes, recipient of the 2025 ClearCorrect Clinical Case of the Year Award, highlights how modern clear-alignment systems, supported by a robust digital workflow and clinical support, can achieve transformative results.
The case involved a 38-year-old female patient whose confidence was at an all-time low. Previous failed orthodontic treatment had left her with a significant 12mm overjet, a damaged arch and a smile she was too embarrassed to show. The patient’s request was clear: she wanted a discreet, comfortable and reliable solution to finally believe in her smile again.
Treatment planning
Dr. Hughes recognized this as a complex case from the outset, with a Class II skeletal base and significant tooth rotations requiring meticulous planning. He chose ClearCorrect aligners to satisfy the patient’s desire for discretion while providing the clinical control necessary to manage such complex movements. His decision underscores a key message for clinicians: clear-alignment therapy is a powerful tool for more than just simple cases.
The treatment plan was mapped out using ClearPilot, ClearCorrect’s intuitive treatment planning software. Dr. Hughes planned to expand the upper arch, reduce overcrowding, and align the rotating premolars and molars, incorporating auxiliary and sequential movements to ensure predictability.
This digital ecosystem is designed to give clinicians control and flexibility in treatments. Dr. Hughes chose the ClearCorrect Unlimited option, giving you the freedom to make improvements as needed throughout the process.
Cooperation and support
A critical element of the treatment’s success was the cooperation and support it provided. “We believe that empowering clinicians means not only providing a superior product, but also a strong support ecosystem,” says Caroline Cross, ClearCorrect UK marketing manager. “Dr Hughes’ case shows how a collaborative approach, combining advanced digital tools with expert clinical guidance, enables professionals to achieve outstanding results, even in the most challenging scenarios.”
The end result was a transformation that went beyond simply straightening the teeth. The treatment resulted in a wider, more symmetrical smile and a significant reduction in overjet, all while maintaining patient comfort and periodontal health.
The trip was completed with bleaching and digital views. For Dr. Hughes, the result was deeply satisfying, stating, “To see her leave the office not only transformed but finally proud of her smile was one of the most rewarding outcomes of my career.”
This case proves that with the right technology and support, clinicians can confidently use clear aligners to restore smile and self-esteem.
Learn more about how ClearCorrect can help transform the smiles in your practice.
This article is sponsored by Straumann.
