Efficacy and impact of orthodontic aligners on quality of life and oral health: an integrative review

Objective: To investigate, through a survey of studies, the impact on quality of life and oral health as well as the effectiveness of orthodontic aligners compared to conventional fixed appliances. Methodology: To compose this integrative review, studies published in the PubMed/Medline, Lilacs, Scielo and Scholar Google databases from 2019 to 2024 were included, which were aligned with the theme and full text availability. Editorials, posters, duplicate articles, monographs, book chapters were excluded from the sample. The descriptors used were: aesthetic aligners; clear aesthetic aligners; biomechanics; effectiveness; quality of life; and oral health. Results: A total of 800 studies were identified, which 584 were from the last five years. Eighty-six papers were selected for full reading; however, 61 did not meet the scope of this study and five were not available in full text, being excluded. After applying the eligibility criteria, 20 studies remained to be part of this review. Conclusion: Aligners are a good alternative in less complex malocclusions when aesthetics and shorter treatment duration are important. Regarding quality of life and oral health, there are no significant differences between invisible and conventional orthodontics; however, aligners can contribute to better biofilm control, favoring periodontal health.