AI-Driven Advancements in Orthodontics for Precision and Patient Outcomes

Introduction

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming orthodontic care by enabling more precise, personalized treatment planning. Traditional orthodontic planning relies on manual evaluation of dental structure and X-rays and is subject to variability in outcomes and treatment duration. This narrative review (Dentistry, MDPI, 2025) explores current applications of AI in orthodontics and its role in predicting tooth movement, fabricating custom aligners, optimizing treatment times, and offering real-time patient monitoring.

AI in orthodontic treatment

At the core of AI-powered orthodontics is data collection: high-resolution 3D scans, intraoral photographs, and X-rays create a detailed digital model of the patient's teeth and jaw. AI systems use machine learning, neural networks, and computer vision to analyse this data and predict how teeth will move in response to braces or aligners. Personalized treatment planning then tailors the design, placement, and force application of appliances to each patient. For clear aligners (e.g. Invisalign), AI generates a sequence of aligners that apply precise forces at each stage; for fixed braces, AI helps determine bracket and wire placement and the need for auxiliaries. Continuous monitoring allows comparison of real-time progress with predicted movement; patients can submit photos via apps for AI-driven progress reports, reducing in-office visits.

Applications

Key applications include prediction of tooth movement using historical treatment data and biomechanical models; custom aligner fabrication tailored to 3D scans, with reported reductions in the number of aligners per case and in patient discomfort; optimization of treatment time by simulating movement and refining plans to avoid delays; and enhanced remote monitoring and timely adjustments. Studies cited in the review report improved diagnostic accuracy, shorter treatment duration (e.g. mean reduction of about 4.3 months in one comparison), higher patient satisfaction scores, and fewer required appointments with AI-assisted planning.

Future prospects and challenges

Future directions include integration of AI with robotics for performing procedures, predictive orthodontics for early intervention, and 3D printing of orthodontic devices in real time. Challenges remain in data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the cost of adopting AI technologies. As AI continues to evolve, its capacity to revolutionise orthodontic care is likely to support more streamlined, patient-centred, and effective treatments.

Reference: Olawade DB, Leena N, Egbon E, Rai J, Mohammed APEK, Oladapo BI, Boussios S. Dent. J. 2025, 13(5), 198. https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13050198. https://www.mdpi.com/2304-6767/13/5/198