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Advancements in Orthodontic Aligner Fabrication: A Comparative Review of 3D Printing Technologies and Traditional
1Department of Preventive Dental Science, Division of Orthodontics, College of Dentistry, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia, Phone: +966 173295000,
Aim And Background:
From their inception to the present, these aligners have evolved due to significant advancements in materials science and production technologies, which have improved patient outcomes and accessibility. When orthodontic aligners were first developed in the latter half of the 20th century, the majority of the methods used were labor-intensive manual processes using substandard materials. This review article offers comparative data between three-dimensional (3D) printing technologies and conventional methods, as well as insights into the developments in orthodontic aligner fabrication.
Materials And Methods:
The review question was developed using the population intervention comparator outcome (PICO) criteria and preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The following seven databases were searched: PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, Cochrane, ProQuest, Google Scholar, and Web of Science.
Results:
The review showed the characteristic outcomes of four studies on the treatment efficacy of 3D printing and three studies on different behaviors towards orthodontic treatment. The performance of orthodontic aligners depends on the characteristics of the materials used in their construction, and only a few materials have been evaluated.
Conclusion:
As technology developed, computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) techniques were introduced, making treatment planning more precise and predictable.
Clinical Significance:
This shift not only reflects advancements in digital dentistry but also underscores a broader trend in precision medicine, where patient care is increasingly individually personalized. How to cite this article: Alhazmi AS. Advancements in Orthodontic Aligner Fabrication: A Comparative Review of 3D Printing Technologies and Traditional Methods Evaluation. J Contemp Dent Pract 2025;26(6):632-637.
