Advanced orthodontic materials: From current clinical strategies to emerging applications

Progress in biomedicine has long been driven by materials innovation, an impetus now profoundly reshaping the field of orthodontics. The discipline has undergone a pivotal evolution: where early efforts primarily targeted mechanical performance and aesthetic enhancement, the contemporary focus has shifted toward intelligent, multifunctional materials that seamlessly integrate diagnosis with therapeutic intervention. Today, propelled by breakthroughs in microelectronics, additive manufacturing, and artificial intelligence, orthodontic materials are being fundamentally re-engineered. They are no longer passive corrective appliances but have evolved into core components of interactive biomedical platforms. These advanced systems are designed not only to achieve precise tooth movement but also to enable real-time monitoring of intraoral forces, biofilm activity, and even systemic health biomarkers. Along this review,we trace the progression from material (including alloys, polymers, ceramic materials) and manufacturing advances to the integration of smart sensing, responsive coatings, and artificial intelligence. Representative examples illustrate the synergistic integration of materials, processing strategies, and intelligent systems, facilitating the evolution of orthodontics toward personalized and intelligent care. Finally, we summarize the current research status and outline prospective directions, foreseeing an intelligent, minimally invasive, and fully personalized paradigm for orthodontic treatment.