Artificial intelligence in orthodontics is currently accompanied by high expectations, which do not always correspond to actual clinical value. This comprehensive report proposes a critical and pragmatic analysis of digital and AI-based tools across three main application areas: diagnostics, orthodontic setup and therapy, and extra-clinical management (including documentation and monitoring). Applications that are now well-established but often underestimated will be discussed, such as automated tooth segmentation; emerging tools with defined potential and limitations, like automated cephalometric analysis; and less reliable solutions, such as setups generated by algorithms with unvalidated training protocols. The objective is to provide the clinician with concrete criteria to distinguish useful innovation from mere technological hype. The report concludes with the presentation of a clinical case that verifies whether and to what extent these tools can correctly guide clinical choices.