Digital working process in diagnosis, treatment planning and fabrication of personalized orthodontic appliances

Abstract

ABSTRACT Until recently, the working process of personalized orthodontic appliances (POAs) is performed digitally with the use of virtual systems including diagnosis, treatment planning and remote monitoring. Based on the exponential development of digital technologies such as imaging systems, computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) systems, three-dimensional (3D) printing and artificial intelligence (AI), orthodontists want to go further and create an almost automatic intelligent orthodontic procedure containing big data to assist orthodontists in clinical treatment and reduce therapy duration. Here, we review the latest studies illustrating the application of digital technologies during treatment and manufacturing process of POAs. In addition, we highlight the current challenges and future directions of digital technology in POAs to call for more attention to the (I) AI applications for image analysis and treatment designation, and (II) 3D printing technologies for precise fabrication of POAs like clear aligner, accessories of fixed orthodontic appliances.