Effect of Aging on Morphological and Optical Properties of Directly Printed Orthodontic Aligners: A Narrative Review

Clear aligners are a popular aesthetic orthodontic treatment, but they are costly and complicated due to the manufacturers' involvement. To address this issue, dental practitioners have adopted in-house 3D printing technology as a cost-effective solution. To solve the limits of conventional manufacturing techniques, recent efforts have been undertaken to directly 3D print clear aligners utilizing a biocompatible material. The workflow for designing and printing aligners involves error-prone steps that require meticulous analysis and examination through scientific study. Testing is necessary before replacing of traditional thermoformed aligners with 3D-printed alternatives. It is possible to tailor aligners to meet individual clinical requirements owing to the adaptable design features of printed aligners. This review outlines the effect of aging on the morphological and optical properties of directly printed orthodontic aligners. Publish articles about the topic from 2010 to 2025 were around 27 articles. The future of clear aligner therapy looks promising; still, there is a need for additional advancement in materials and appliance design before 3D-printed aligners can fully satisfy clinical expectations and replace the thermoforming workflow.