Introduction

Patients’ attitudes have changed and this led to high esthetic demands and promotion of clear aligners. In 1997, Align Technology Inc (Santa Clara‚ CA‚USA) introduced Invisalign Technology. All of the designing procedure was conducted on the computer by 3D model and aligners were manufactured using computer-aided design and manufacture (CAD-CAM) technology.

Aim

The aim of this review was to investigate the efficacy of orthodontic treatment using the Invisalign® system and its related complications.

Material and methods

A comprehensive electronic search was conducted in MEDLINE, PubMed, and EMBASE from Jan 2013 to July 2019. “Invisalign” as the sole search term was used in this process and PRISMA guideline was applied for data extraction.

Results

Fourteen studies were included in this study which analyzed treatment outcomes in extraction/non-extraction therapies, discomfort, complications, and patients’ opinion regarding the Invisalign system. Invisalign has a lesser treatment duration and similar root resorption. Finishing the treatment with Invisalign may require additional appliances. Patients with Invisalign experience lesser pain and eating difficulties but more speech and swallowing difficulties. Overall, studies stated that fixed treatment improved malocclusions more effectively. Invisalign can perform crown tipping, bodily and torque movements as well as a fixed appliance.

Conclusions

It was found that no strong conclusions could be made regarding the treatment effects of Invisalign appliances. Future clinical trials with sound scientific evidence are required to support the claims about Invisalign’s treatment effects. Clinicians will have to rely on their clinical experience, opinions of experts and the limited published evidence when using Invisalign appliances.