Impact of 3D Printing and CAD/CAM Technology on Orthodontic Treatment Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Three-dimensional (3D) printing and computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology in orthodontics have enabled digital workflows, enabling greater treatment efficiency, accuracy, and clinical use. Comparative analysis with traditional methods has provided variable results, and systematic review of their effects on orthodontic treatment outcomes is therefore warranted. Systematic review and meta-analysis, according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, were performed to evaluate the effects of 3D printing and CAD/CAM technology on orthodontic outcomes. Eligible studies that compared digital workflows, treatment efficiency, accuracy of custom-made appliances, mechanical and esthetic properties, and clinical usability were included. The accuracy of 3D-printed orthodontic models was comparable with that of traditional plaster models (mean difference (MD) = 0.12 mm; 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.08 to 0.32; I² = 72%). CAD/CAM-manufactured aligners were more retentive and better adapted compared with traditional thermoformed aligners. Treatment time was significantly shorter using digital workflows (MD = -2.76 months; 95% CI: -4.15 to -1.37; I² = 88%). 3D printing and CAD/CAM technology demonstrated strong benefits in accuracy, efficiency, and clinical feasibility in orthodontic treatment. While digital workflows effectively streamlined treatment processes and enhanced appliance accuracy, material properties and long-term performance required optimization.