The Clear Vision: How Dr. Lloyd Truax Pioneered the Age of Aligners

1925-1942 | Early Life

Lloyd H. Truax was born on May 18, 1925, in Rochester, Minnesota. Raised during the Great Depression, he developed a strong sense of resolve, discipline, and work ethic that would guide him throughout his life.

1942-1945 | World War II: Service & Survival

At 17, Lloyd lied about his age to join the U.S. Army Air Corps following the attack on Pearl Harbor. As a navigator on a B-24 bomber flying the treacherous air route over the Himalayas known as “The Hump,” his crew was forced to crash-land in a rice paddy in China after engine failure. Miraculously, all ten crew members survived.

A rural Chinese village, risking their lives, protected and nursed the men back to health despite Japanese rewards for turning them in. During his time there, Lloyd observed the ancient practice of foot binding — a cultural belief that beauty was tied to smaller feet. He saw how consistent, gentle pressure could guide bone growth over time. This realization would shape his future philosophy in orthodontics.

1946-1955 | Education & Orthodontic Vision

Upon returning from the war, Lloyd pursued dentistry at the University of Minnesota and later earned a master’s degree in orthodontics. He became a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics and joined the Mayo Clinic as its first orthodontist.

At the time, the standard practice for creating space in orthodontics was surgical tooth extraction. But Truax, inspired by what he had witnessed in China, believed there was a better way: that bone could be guided, not removed, using gentle, sustained pressure.

1958-1975 | Practice & the Birth of Tru-Tain

Beginning in 1958 and continuing over a four-year period, Dr. Truax collaborated with Dr. Tony Lund to develop the foundational principles of tooth guidance, interceptive treatment, and treatment timing. These concepts challenged conventional orthodontic methods. Their methods led to tooth removal in fewer than 4% of cases.

In 1960, Dr. Truax opened a private practice in Rochester, MN. Over the next decade, he began developing a clear, vacuum-formed retainer using a thin thermoplastic material — lightweight, durable, and nearly invisible.

By 1975, after placing over 1,500 test retainers, the product was ready. His wife, Beverly Truax, named it “Tru-Tain” — short for “Truax Retainer.”

Dr. Truax was among the first to discover that these appliances could do more than retain teeth; they could move them. He began using Tru-Tain devices to guide minor tooth corrections well before anyone else formalized the concept.

1975-1981 | The Evolution into a Business

Tru-Tain began not as a commercial product company but as an educational extension of Dr. Truax’s practice. As his forward-thinking peers began to recognize the benefits of these new clear appliances, many turned to Dr. Truax for help sourcing reliable, medical-grade plastic polymers. What started as a clinical innovation evolved into a supply company that supported orthodontists around the world.

In 1981, Dr. Truax’s son, Kevin Truax, joined the business. This allowed Dr. Truax to continue focusing on patient care in his private practice with full energy and focus.

1986 | STARS: Sequential Treatment Before Invisalign^®

In collaboration with Dr. Michael Rains, Dr. Truax launched the STARS system (Serial Truax Appliance, Rains System). It consisted of a series of removable, clear appliances designed to move teeth progressively. The system included innovative attachments and anchorage methods for improved control.

STARS was one of the earliest true clear aligner systems, launched more than a decade before Invisalign’s debut. Truax didn’t just observe that teeth could be moved with clear plastics — he formalized it into a scalable clinical system.

1990s-2000s | Industry Recognition and Influence

Tru-Tain gained international traction, with the clear retainer becoming an industry standard.

When Align Technology filed its patent for Invisalign^® (U.S. Patent No. 5,975,893), it specifically named Tru-Tain material as the preferred thermoplastic. This acknowledgment not only validated Tru-Tain’s clinical utility but confirmed its foundational influence on the clear aligner movement.

In the patent litigation Ormco v. Align, the courts recognized elements of Truax’s work as prior art, undermining Invisalign’s^® claims of innovation. His systems of sequential delivery, tooth movement, and clear retention were all in use long before.

In 1990, Dr. Charles Praska joined Dr. Lloyd Truax’s orthodontic practice in Rochester, Minnesota. The two practiced together for 17 years, forming a respected and collaborative team until Dr. Truax’s retirement in 2007 at the age of 82.

2015 | A Life Remembered

Dr. Lloyd Truax passed away on December 9, 2015, at age 90. He left behind a legacy of compassion, vision, and innovation that reshaped modern orthodontics.

2015-Present | Legacy & Leadership

In 2017, Kevin’s son Ryan Truax joined Tru-Tain, becoming the third generation of Truax leadership. He was appointed CEO in 2025 after Kevin’s retirement. According to family lore, Ryan technically made his first sale at just six months old, when a female doctor at a Vancouver convention was drawn to the Tru-Tain booth — more specifically, to the baby in the stroller — and left with a vacuum thermal forming machine.

Today, Ryan leads Tru-Tain with the same spirit of thoughtful innovation. Under his leadership, the company continues to serve the global orthodontic community and has even initiated Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) efforts, including reforestation through native tree planting and partnering with Tiny Changes to support their aligner/retainer recycling program. A commitment to environmental responsibility rooted in the same philosophy of care that Dr. Truax championed.

Tru-Tain’s legacy is one of vision, perseverance, and human-centered care — a true family story woven into the evolution of an entire industry.

Pioneering the Future of Aligner Materials

Introducing Tru-Tain DX: Pioneering the Future of Aligner Materials

In the ever-evolving field of orthodontics, advancements in technology continue to revolutionize the way we approach teeth straightening. Among the remarkable innovations, Tru-Tain DX stands tall as the ultimate aligner material, meticulously crafted with precision and innovation. Boasting unparalleled characteristics, this groundbreaking material is set to redefine the orthodontic experience, bringing smiles to perfection like never before.

The Quest for Perfection: Unraveling Tru-Tain DX

At the core of Tru-Tain DX lies its exceptional composition. Made from Polycyclohexylenedimethylene Terephthalate Glycol-modified (PCTG), a state-of-the-art polymer, it embodies the culmination of meticulous research and technological advancements. PCTG brings together the best of both worlds – the strength and durability of traditional materials with the modern marvel of glycol modification. This fusion results in a material that surpasses the limitations of conventional aligners.

Clarity Beyond Compare

One of the standout features of Tru-Tain DX is its unmatched clarity. Traditional aligner materials often suffer from discoloration and cloudiness, diminishing their aesthetic appeal. Tru-Tain DX, however, maintains its pristine clarity throughout the entire treatment period, providing patients with confidence in their smiles. The crystal-clear appearance ensures that wearers can confidently navigate their social and professional lives without any self-consciousness about their orthodontic appliances.

Flexibility with No Compromise

Another remarkable aspect of Tru-Tain DX is its flexibility. The material’s superior elasticity ensures a gentle and comfortable fit over the teeth, making it a perfect choice for patients seeking a seamless orthodontic journey. Tru-Tain DX aligners gently adapt to the contours of each individual’s teeth, reducing discomfort and avoiding unnecessary irritation.

Stain Resistance for Long-lasting Brilliance

While undergoing orthodontic treatment, patients often face challenges in maintaining the cleanliness and brilliance of their aligners. Tru-Tain DX tackles this concern head-on with its exceptional stain resistance. Thanks to its advanced formulation, the material repels common stains caused by daily activities such as drinking coffee, tea, or other pigmented beverages. As a result, Tru-Tain DX aligners remain transparent and unblemished, contributing to the overall effectiveness and aesthetics of the treatment.

The Comfortable Path to Perfection

Perhaps the most significant advantage of Tru-Tain DX lies in the comfort it offers during treatment. Orthodontic treatments often come with the perception of discomfort, discouraging some individuals from seeking the smile they desire. Tru-Tain DX changes this narrative by providing an unparalleled level of comfort. Wearers will experience minimal interference with their daily routines, allowing them to go about their lives without disruptions. This comfortable path to perfection makes the journey more enjoyable and rewarding for both patients and practitioners.

The Future is Now

With Tru-Tain DX, orthodontics enters a new era of possibilities. Its extraordinary combination of durability, clarity, flexibility, and stain resistance sets it apart as the ultimate aligner material of choice. Gone are the days of compromising on aesthetics, comfort, and results. Tru-Tain DX paves the way for a future where orthodontic treatment becomes a seamless, hassle-free, and confidence-boosting experience.

Experience Tru-Tain DX Today

For those seeking the future of orthodontic aligner materials, the answer is clear – Tru-Tain DX. Step into a world of clarity, comfort, and confidence as you embark on your journey towards a perfect smile. Embrace the innovation that awaits and experience the unparalleled benefits of Tru-Tain DX, where cutting-edge technology meets orthodontic excellence. The future is here; embrace it today!

Get Ahead of the Game: How Early Orthodontic Care Can Save You Time and Money

Getting ahead of orthodontic health is just like managing laundry, it’s much easier when you stay on top of it. Just as you wouldn’t skip a check-up at the pediatrician, you shouldn’t skip an early visit to the orthodontist either. A visit to the orthodontist before the age of 7 can help maintain your child’s oral health and potentially prevent more invasive or costly treatments later in life.

By visiting an orthodontist early, your child may be a good candidate for a palatal expander, which can make the upper jaw wider and reduce crowding in abnormally narrow arches. Ideally, this procedure is performed while the patient is still growing, as the expansion occurs when the growth plate or suture in the middle of the palate is stretched, and the two halves are pushed apart. Early palatal expansion may also reduce the need for extractions or prevent impacted teeth, which if left untreated may require surgery in adulthood and cause abnormal wear or bite problems.

Sometimes, a short time in braces can correct problems early on to prevent more significant issues later. This is known as early interceptive treatment, which can be used to correct anterior crossbites, for example. In some cases, removing baby or impacted teeth can encourage permanent teeth to emerge better and closer to their ideal position, even without orthodontic appliances. Your orthodontist will suggest the best time for extractions to take advantage of your child’s growth and development.

It’s important to note that not all early visits result in orthodontic treatment. Your child’s first appointment with the orthodontist could result in one of three things: no need for treatment at that time, future treatment that requires periodic monitoring, or an existing problem that would benefit from early treatment. Most orthodontists offer free consultations, so it’s essential to take advantage of this and make an appointment early on.

To achieve a healthy, beautiful smile at any age, it’s essential to trust an American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) orthodontist. Orthodontists are experts in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics, which is the proper alignment of teeth and jaws. They possess the necessary skills and experience to give you your best smile. You can find an orthodontist near you by visiting aaoinfo.org/locator.

The First Clear Retainer

Orthodontic treatment has come a long way in the past few decades, with innovations and advancements in technology and materials allowing for more comfortable and efficient orthodontic appliances. One of these advancements was the invention of the clear orthodontic retainer, which has become a popular alternative to traditional metal braces. The first clear orthodontic retainer was patented by Dr. Lloyd Truax in the 1970s, and it revolutionized the field of orthodontics.

Before the invention of the clear orthodontic retainer, patients had to wear metal braces for several years to achieve straight teeth. While metal braces were effective, they had several downsides, including discomfort, difficulty eating certain foods, and difficulty keeping teeth clean. In addition, metal braces were highly visible, which could be embarrassing for some patients.

Dr. Truax recognized these issues and set out to create an alternative to traditional braces that was more comfortable, less visible, and easier to maintain. He developed the first clear orthodontic retainer, which was made of a clear plastic material that was custom-molded to fit each patient’s teeth. The retainer was designed to be worn over the teeth, similar to a mouthguard, and it applied gentle pressure to shift the teeth into the desired position.

Dr. Truax’s invention was a game-changer for orthodontic patients, as it offered several benefits over traditional braces. Firstly, the clear plastic material was much more comfortable to wear than metal brackets and wires. Secondly, the retainer was virtually invisible, making it a great option for patients who didn’t want to draw attention to their orthodontic treatment. Thirdly, the retainer could be removed for eating, making it much easier to maintain good oral hygiene.

Dr. Truax’s clear orthodontic retainer was patented in the 1970s, and it quickly gained popularity among orthodontic patients. Since then, there have been many advancements in clear orthodontic retainers, with new materials and designs making them even more comfortable, effective, and convenient for patients. Today, clear orthodontic retainers are a popular alternative to traditional braces, and they have helped millions of people achieve beautiful, straight smiles.

In conclusion, Dr. Lloyd Truax’s invention of the clear orthodontic retainer in the 1970s was a significant advancement in the field of orthodontics. His invention offered patients a more comfortable, convenient, and discreet option for straightening their teeth, and it paved the way for many other innovations in clear orthodontic appliances. Thanks to Dr. Truax’s invention, orthodontic treatment has become more accessible and more comfortable for patients, and it continues to evolve and improve to this day.

Tru-Tain DX

Orthodontic treatments have come a long way over the years, with advancements in technology and materials allowing for more precise and effective treatment options. One such material that has gained popularity in recent years is Tru-Tain DX aligner material. In this blog post, we will explore what Tru-Tain DX aligner material is, how it works, and its benefits.

What is Tru-Tain DX Aligner Material?

Tru-Tain DX aligner material is a thermoplastic material used in the fabrication of clear aligners. This material is a patented blend of Poly Cyclohexylenedimethylene Terephthalate glycol, which offers several benefits over traditional aligner materials.

The material is clear and durable, making it ideal for creating invisible aligners that are comfortable to wear. It also has a high degree of elasticity, which allows it to flex and adapt to the shape of the teeth, providing a snug and secure fit.

How Does Tru-Tain DX Aligner Material Work?

Tru-Tain DX aligner material works by applying gentle and consistent pressure on the teeth, which gradually shifts them into the desired position. This pressure is applied through the use of custom-made aligners, which are created using advanced 3D scanning and printing technologies.

The aligners are designed to fit snugly over the teeth, applying a controlled force that gently moves the teeth into the desired position. As the teeth move, the aligners are replaced with new ones, each one slightly adjusted to continue the progression of the treatment.

What are the Benefits of Tru-Tain DX Aligner Material?

Tru-Tain DX aligner material offers several benefits over traditional aligner materials, including:

Comfort: Tru-Tain DX aligner material is soft and pliable, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods. The material conforms to the shape of the teeth, reducing the risk of irritation and discomfort.
Durability: Tru-Tain DX aligner material is highly durable, making it resistant to cracking, tearing, and breaking. This means that the aligners can withstand the daily wear and tear of everyday use, ensuring that they last throughout the treatment period.
Clarity: Tru-Tain DX aligner material is virtually invisible, making it an ideal choice for patients who are self-conscious about wearing braces. The material does not stain or yellow over time, ensuring that the aligners remain clear throughout the treatment period.
Precision: Tru-Tain DX aligner material is highly precise, ensuring that the aligners fit snugly and apply a consistent force on the teeth. This precision results in faster and more predictable treatment outcomes.
Efficiency: Tru-Tain DX aligner material allows for more efficient treatment times, as the material is designed to move the teeth more quickly and effectively than traditional aligner materials. This means that patients can achieve their desired results in a shorter period, reducing the overall treatment time.

Tru-Tain DX aligner material is an advanced orthodontic material that offers several benefits over traditional aligner materials. The material is comfortable, durable, clear, precise, and efficient, making it an ideal choice for patients seeking a discreet and effective orthodontic treatment option.

If you are considering orthodontic treatment and would like to learn more about Tru-Tain DX aligner material, speak to your orthodontist or dentist to see if this material is right for you.

Orthodontic Retainers

Orthodontic retainers are a common dental appliance that is used to keep your teeth in place after completing orthodontic treatment.

Orthodontic retainers are a common dental appliance that is used to keep your teeth in place after completing orthodontic treatment. While braces or aligners straighten your teeth, retainers help maintain that alignment and prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions.

Types of Retainers:

There are two primary types of retainers: removable and fixed.

Removable retainers are made of a clear plastic or acrylic material that fits over your teeth. They are easy to clean and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing. Removable retainers are typically worn full-time for the first few months after orthodontic treatment and then gradually phased out to only wearing at night or a few times per week. There are also clear removable retainers that look like an Invisalign aligner, and can be worn throughout the day, only removing it for meals and cleaning.

Fixed retainers, on the other hand, are cemented to the back of your teeth and cannot be removed. They are typically made of a thin wire that is bonded to the lingual (tongue-side) surface of your teeth. Fixed retainers are usually used for the lower front teeth and are considered the more long-term option since they require less patient compliance and more durable than a removable retainer.

Benefits of Retainers:

The main benefit of retainers is that they help maintain the alignment of your teeth after orthodontic treatment. Teeth have a natural tendency to shift back to their original positions, so retainers are essential for keeping the results of your orthodontic treatment in place. Retainers also help improve your bite and reduce the risk of dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease.

Another advantage of retainers is that they are relatively easy to care for. Removable retainers should be cleaned regularly with a toothbrush and mild soap, while fixed retainers only require normal brushing and flossing.

Conclusion:

Orthodontic retainers are an important dental appliance that help maintain the results of your orthodontic treatment. They come in two primary types, removable and fixed, and are relatively easy to care for. If you are finishing up your orthodontic treatment, your dentist or orthodontist will likely recommend a retainer to ensure your teeth remain straight and healthy. With proper care and regular checkups with your dental professional, retainers can help ensure a lifetime of happy, healthy smiles.

Orthodontic Aligners

Orthodontic aligners, which are a type of clear, removable braces used to straighten teeth, have been gaining popularity in recent years.

One of the most significant developments in orthodontic aligners in recent years is the introduction of new materials that are more comfortable and effective. For example, some newer aligner materials can apply more targeted and precise pressure on specific teeth, leading to faster and more accurate results.

Another recent trend is the use of 3D printing technology to produce custom-fit aligners more efficiently and with greater precision. This technology allows for greater customization of aligners, leading to more effective and personalized treatment.

Additionally, there have been advancements in the technology used to create orthodontic aligners, which have led to the development of more advanced treatment planning software. This software allows orthodontists to create detailed treatment plans and predict the outcome of treatment with greater accuracy, leading to more effective and efficient treatment.

Overall, orthodontic aligners continue to evolve and improve, providing patients with a more comfortable, convenient, and effective alternative to traditional braces.

Tru-Tain Retainer Background

dental forming materials

The Tru-Tain Retainer was developed over a 3-year period (1972-1975) by Dr. Lloyd Truax of Rochester, MN. During this time, over 1500 retainers were placed. Various types of materials, thicknesses, shapes and amounts of coverage were used to develop a retainer with the following qualities: NEARLY INVISIBLE, DURABLE STABLE RETENTION, AND HAS FDA APPROVED MATERIAL. The Tru-Tain Retainer is comfortable, more aesthetic, faster to fabricate, less expensive and retains better than any other retainer.

Very little pressure is needed to either move or retain the positions of teeth. The Tru-Tain Retainer is very thin, yet strong enough to maintain adequate pressure, while not encroaching on the FREEWAY SPACE with detrimental effects.

Minor tooth movements of teeth may be made by altering positions of teeth on the model before vacuum forming the retainer. This thin plastic is flexible, which is necessary to produce minor tooth movements. THE DESIGN OF THIS RETAINER HAS BEEN USED FOR OVER 40 YEARS WITH EXCELLENT RESULTS.

Tru-Tain Retainer Construction Step by Step

Pour the impression with stone and without a base (both maxillary and mandible), a U-shaped model so the plastic can be properly vacuumed easily over the model
The heater is turned on to heat (it takes about 2 to 3 minutes) while the bottom of gingival portion of the model is leveled on the cast trimmer. CAUTION-the heating element will not heat properly if it is cooled by air from an air conditioning duct or an open window.
Place the plastic in the heater frame and raise up toward the heating element. Heat material until a ½ inch sag in the material is present. Overheating until the plastic sags more than 1 inch will result in a retainer that is too thin and may have folds or creases in the model. The heating time on a vacuum machine is around 45-65 seconds (time and amount of heat will vary with different machines). More important than time is to watch for the sag of the material. On Bio-Star type machine, code 103. The proper amount of heat—the plastic is pliable to the touch and minute bubbles will just start to form in the plastic. It is very important to heat properly or the plastic will not form correctly over the model.
The vacuum motor must be turned on first, then bring the frame with the plastic down over the model (leave vacuum on until the plastic is closely adapted to the model). Allow about 5 seconds.
Trim the excess plastic from around the edges of the model with a large scissors.
Use a scalpel to trim the plastic from 1 ½” to 2 mm apically to the gingival crest all around the labial, buccal and lingual of the model.
Use Howe pliers to pull the excess trimmed plastic from the model.
Remove the retainer from the model and trim it more with a crown & bridge scissors. It is not necessary to buff the edge of this material. In fact, buffing will make it ragged. It can be smoothed with a diamond stone.
Retainer is finished and ready to place.
Variation: To allow setting of maxillary posterior teeth, the model is poured including the palate (keep the model short vertically so the plastic will vacuum properly over the model). Only 6 anterior teeth and the palate are included in the retainer. The plastic is trimmed 1 to 2 mm away from the lingual of the posterior teeth.
The models are given to the patient and are brought back on retention visits. If or when new retainers are made, it will only take about 5 minutes.
Retainers can be made and placed within less than an hour after the impressions are taken. This eliminates the need for a future appointment. These splint retainers are placed by the patients at night only—the retainers are very thin in the posterior areas and will not encroach on the freeway space. When minor tooth movement is desired or to hold space closed, only then is retainer placed during the day and removed only while eating, for approximately 3 to 8 weeks. Retainers are MORE COMFORTABLE TO THE PATIENT, MORE ESTHETIC, FASTER TO MAKE, LESS EXPENSIVE, AND RETAIN BETTER THAN ANY RETAINERS ON THE MARKET. The plastic is clear, thin, resilient and very tough.
If you have any problems or questions regarding the TRU-TAIN RETAINER material, please call or email and we will be happy to assist.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR PLACING RETAINERS

GROWING CHILD: After the bands have been removed, retainers are placed full time for 3 days and 3 nights removing only to eat and brush. If a diastema has been closed or teeth have been re-positioned, then retainers must be placed full time for 2 months. After 3 days, these retainers are placed nights only until third molars have erupted or are removed. During the next year, they are placed every other night for 4 months: twice a week for 4 months, once a week for 4 months. Retainers are discontinued unless indefinite retention is indicated.

ADULT: Adult patients place their retainers night and day for the first 3 days. Then every night for 12 months; then the same as for a growing child.

REPOSITIONING TEETH: Place retainers night and day for 2 months removing only to eat and brush. Then nights only for 6 months. Then only as per above instructions.

MISCELLANEOUS

Clean retainers daily with toothpaste or soap. Occasionally retainers may need to be placed in a denture or ultra sonic cleaner. Never place in or around hot water; this will cause distorting.
TRU-TAIN RETAINERS usually last 1 to 2 years and some have not needed to be replaced for an even longer period of time. Longevity of use will depend on patient wear etc.
Holes appearing on the incisal or occlusal (usually the cuspid area) do not effect retention. If a split along the sides of occlusal occurs, a new retainer is necessary.