Abstract: A method may include generating a 2D blank that can form a 3D dental aligner via thermoforming. The 2D blank may include a first material that includes a first discontinuity. The 2D blank may include a second material integrally formed within the first discontinuity. The first material may have a higher stiffness than the second material. The method may include thermoforming the 2D blank to form the 3D dental aligner having variable stiffness.

Abstract: A device for repositioning a patient's teeth includes a shell having a shape corresponding to the patient's teeth and including an inner surface, where the inner surface is configured to engage with the patient's teeth. The device also includes at least one region of the inner surface having a higher frictional coefficient than a remaining portion of the inner surface, and where the at least one region is configured to apply a force to at least one tooth of the patient's teeth, wherein the at least one region comprises a local variation in geometry relative to a remainder of the inner surface.

Abstract: A system for generating a desired result of an orthodontic treatment plan may include an orthodontic decision support system and a scanning system. The orthodontic decision support system generates orthodontic data that details the final desired position and orientation of the teeth of a user as part of a treatment plan for the user. The scanning system may gather orthodontic data for the user to input to the orthodontic decision support system in order to generate the final output.