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VOLUME 3 , ISSUE 1 ( January-June, 2026 ) > List of Articles

REVIEW ARTICLE

Digital Orthodontic Workflow: A Narrative Review

Khushbu V Rathod, Ajay Kantilal Kubavat, Khyati Viralkumar Patel, Krishi Vinod Jariwala

Keywords : Artificial intelligence, Clear aligners, Computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing, Digital orthodontics, Digital workflow, Intraoral scanning, Three-dimensional printing

Citation Information : Rathod KV, Kubavat AK, Patel KV, Jariwala KV. Digital Orthodontic Workflow: A Narrative Review. 2026; 3 (1):31-37.

DOI: 10.5005/jihr-11055-0031

License: CC BY-NC 4.0

Published Online: 30-06-2026

Copyright Statement:  Copyright © 2026; The Author(s).


Abstract

Background: The integration of digital technologies has fundamentally transformed contemporary orthodontic practice. Conventional workflows based on physical impressions, plaster models, and manual appliance fabrication are increasingly being replaced by digitally driven processes. The digital orthodontic workflow encompasses intraoral scanning, digital diagnosis and virtual treatment planning, computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM), three-dimensional (3D) printing, and digitally guided clinical delivery. Objective: To provide a comprehensive narrative overview of the digital orthodontic workflow, focusing on its key components, clinical applications, accuracy, advantages, limitations, and emerging trends based on current evidence. Materials and methods: A nonsystematic narrative review was conducted in accordance with the Scale for the Assessment of Narrative Review Articles framework. Electronic databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, were searched for peer-reviewed articles published between January 2000 and December 2023. Systematic reviews, clinical studies, validation studies, and relevant narrative reviews addressing components of the digital orthodontic workflow were qualitatively analyzed. Results: Evidence from multiple systematic reviews and clinical studies demonstrates that digital study models and intraoral scans provide clinically acceptable accuracy and reliability comparable to conventional methods. Digital diagnosis and virtual treatment planning enhance three-dimensional visualization, treatment predictability, and patient communication. CAD/CAM technologies and 3D printing enable the fabrication of customized orthodontic appliances with high dimensional accuracy. Clear aligner therapy represents a fully digital treatment modality, showing effectiveness for mild to moderate malocclusions, although limitations remain for complex tooth movements. Emerging advancements, including in-office 3D printing, digital monitoring, and artificial intelligence applications, further expand the scope of digital orthodontics. Conclusion: The current body of literature supports the digital orthodontic workflow as an accurate, efficient, and patient-centered approach to orthodontic care. While digital technologies offer significant advantages, the overall strength of evidence remains moderate. Optimal clinical outcomes continue to depend on clinician expertise, sound biomechanical principles, and appropriate case selection. Further well-designed randomized clinical trials and long-term studies are required to strengthen the evidence base.

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