More than 20 years have passed since the advent of individualized appliances, which are designed according to the corrective target position. Through a series of digital technology-aided design and production processes, individual appliances have been increasingly recognized and accepted by the public. At present, there are three types of individualized orthodontic appliances: individualized lingual orthodontic appliances, non-bracket invisible appliances and individualized labial appliances. Because of their good effects in orthodontics, these appliances have gradually become mainstream orthodontic treatment tools. However, many doubts persist regarding their use in clinical treatment. This article reviews the development history, design principles and characteristics of the three types of individualized appliances. The results of a literature review showed that CAD/CAM and CBCT provide a hardware foundation for personalized orthodontic appliances that simplifies the therapeutic process. Additionally, individualized appliances also place higher demands on orthodontists. This article could provide references for and help with the clinical selection and use of individualized appliances.