Tele-orthodontics and sensor-based technologies: a systematic review of interventions that monitor and improve compliance of orthodontic patients

Abstract

Background: Recent advances in orthodontics offer appealing tools to monitor compliance and designate protocols to enhance it.

Objective: This systematic review of systematic reviews (SRs) aimed to assess the effectiveness of digitized communication methods and sensor-based devices that track compliance in orthodontic patients.

Search methods: Five electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and EMBASE) were searched from database inception up to 4 December 2022.

Selection criteria: SRs using digitized systems and sensor-based technologies to monitor and/or improve compliance with orthodontic treatment or during an active retention phase were included.

Data collection and analysis: Study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment using the AMSTAR 2 tool were performed independently by two review authors. A qualitative synthesis of outcomes from moderate- and high-quality SRs was provided, and evidence was graded in accordance with a scale of statements.

Results: A total of 846 unique citations were retrieved. After study selection, 18 SRs met the inclusion criteria, and 9 moderate- and high-quality reviews were further integrated into the qualitative synthesis. Digitized communication methods were found to be effective in improving compliance with oral hygiene practices and adherence to orthodontic appointments. Monitoring removable appliance wear with microsensors revealed sub-optimal levels of compliance with wear instructions of intra-oral and extra-oral appliances. One review discussed the informational value of social media platforms and their importance in guiding the decision-making process to seek orthodontic treatment and compliance-related experiences.

Limitations: The variability in the quality of included SRs and the limited number of primary studies on certain outcomes present as limitations within this overview.

Conclusions: The integration of tele-orthodontics and sensor-based technologies to improve and monitor compliance within orthodontic practices is promising. There is sufficient evidence that establishing communication channels with orthodontic patients through reminders and audiovisual systems positively impact their oral hygiene practices throughout orthodontic treatment. However, understanding the informational value of social media as communication channels between clinicians and their patients, and their overall effect on modulating compliance is still insufficient.

Registration: CRD42022331346.