Clinical trends and utilization of clear aligner therapy among specialist orthodontists in Iran.

Objective: Clear aligner therapy (CAT) has transformed contemporary orthodontic practice; however, evidence regarding its adoption and clinical use among specialist orthodontists remains scarce. This study investigated CAT practices among Iranian specialist orthodontists. Methodology: This study forms part of the Cardiff University International Aligner Survey: Orthodontists" Practices and Perceptions. A web-based cross-sectional survey of specialist orthodontists in Iran was conducted from October 2025 to January 2026. A voluntary, anonymous English-language questionnaire assessed demographics, CAT usage patterns, adjuncts, training, preferred malocclusions and patient age groups, monitoring and retention protocols, and perceived advantages and limitations. Results: A total of 142 specialists (16%-20% estimated response rate) responded (83 male, 59 female). Most were aged 30-39 years (47.2%), had 11-20 years of experience (40.8%), and worked in private practice (59.9%). CAT was used by 69% of respondents; 35.9% treated <10 new CAT cases annually, while 7.7% treated >50. For 51.4%, CAT comprised about 10% of their caseload; only 2.8% reported CAT use in >50% of cases. CAT was used mainly in adults and least in mixed dentition/adolescents ( Conclusion: CAT was mainly used for mild malocclusions, supported by expanding local aligner manufacturers and in-office aligner production.