Artificial Intelligence in 3D Printing: Shaping the Next Era of Orthodontics

Background Advances in AI, 3D/4D printing, and digital workflows are transforming orthodontics by enabling patient-specific appliances, predictive treatment planning, and remote monitoring.  Objective To review AI-assisted orthodontics and 3D/4D printing applications, highlighting technological advancements, clinical uses, challenges, and future directions.  Methods Studies from 2015–2021 on AI in treatment planning, predictive modeling, bracket placement, remote monitoring, and digital appliance fabrication were analyzed. 3D/4D printing, bioprinting, and smart materials were evaluated for customization, sustainability, and clinical applicability. Ethical, regulatory, cybersecurity, and patient compliance issues were also reviewed.  Results AI enhances treatment prediction, retention planning, force optimization, and patient engagement via AR/VR and remote monitoring. 3D/4D printing enables precise fabrication of aligners, brackets, archwires, surgical guides, and retainers, with adaptive and regenerative possibilities. Digital workflows reduce costs, improve efficiency, and allow real-time customization. Challenges include material limitations, scalability, regulatory constraints, and ethical concerns regarding data privacy and bias.  Conclusion AI and 3D/4D printing are revolutionizing orthodontics through personalized, efficient, and predictive treatments. Despite technological, ethical, and regulatory challenges, innovations in digital workflows, smart materials, and bioprinting offer promising improvements in patient outcomes and clinical practice.