Invisalign, the undisputed front-runner within the clear aligner {industry}, has taken a monumental leap ahead by buying Cubicure, a pioneer in direct 3D printing options for polymer additive manufacturing (AM). Now full, this strategic acquisition by Align Expertise (Nasdaq: ALGN), the father or mother firm of Invisalign, is a milestone within the evolution of orthodontic options, melding cutting-edge expertise with industry-leading experience. Famend for its revolutionary Scorching Lithography expertise, Cubicure focuses on processing extremely viscous resins to provide sturdy and temperature-resistant polymers, a really perfect addition to Invisalign’s portfolio.

Scorching lithography. Picture courtesy of Cubicure.

Strategic Integration

Commenting on the acquisition, Align Expertise President and CEO Joe Hogan mentioned, “The acquisition of Cubicure brings a gifted staff and distinctive cutting-edge expertise into Align and can allow us to scale our 3D printing operations to ultimately direct print tens of millions of customized home equipment per day. Direct 3D printing permits Align to create 3D printed options with out the added step of first making a mildew, making 3D printing extra sustainable and environment friendly. I’m excited to take this necessary step in our relationship with Cubicure, which started a number of years in the past as a joint growth program.”

The mixing of Cubicure is anticipated to considerably bolster Align’s strategic innovation roadmap and reinforce the capabilities of the Align Digital Platform. This platform helps the model’s superior printing, supplies, and manufacturing processes. A notable inclusion in Align’s 3D printed product vary, facilitated by this acquisition, is the Invisalign Palatal Expander system. This technique represents Align’s incursion into direct 3D printed orthodontic units, providing a extra comfy and clinically efficient different to conventional palatal expanders, which assist to widen a slim higher jaw and proper dental situations like crossbites and overcrowding.

Invisalign’s platform helps with orthodontic therapy. Picture courtesy of Align Expertise.

Cubicure’s patented Scorching Lithography expertise, which employs a singular heating and coating mechanism, is vital in processing extremely viscous resins. This functionality permits for the creation of exceptionally robust and temperature-resistant polymers. The precision of this 3D printing course of permits the additive manufacturing of resilient elements, marking a big development in materials high quality and efficiency within the orthodontics discipline.

Legacy of Innovation and Progress

Align’s historical past is steeped in innovation and development. Over its 26-year journey, Align has invested billions in state-of-the-art applied sciences, together with superior 3D printing, revolutionizing digital orthodontics. Its portfolio, that includes the Invisalign system, iTero intraoral scanners, and Exocad CAD/CAM software program, symbolizes its dedication to pioneering technology-driven orthodontic options.

Invisalign therapy transforms dental issues. Picture courtesy of Align Expertise.

The corporate’s inaugural direct 3D printed orthodontic system, the Invisalign Palatal Expander system, gives a sensible, patient-friendly different to standard palatal expanders. Presently utilized by roughly 252,000 medical doctors globally, the corporate’s suite of merchandise goals to enhance affected person outcomes.

“Align has invested billions of {dollars} in innovation over the previous 27 years, together with next-generation 3D printing applied sciences to course of high-performance polymers,” mentioned Align Senior Vice President of Product Analysis and Growth, Srini Kaza. “We’ve been working with Cubicure for years, and I’m thrilled that they’re now formally staff of Align and members of our R&D group. We’re at the start of this subsequent wave of direct 3D printing additive manufacturing, and I imagine we’re poised to remodel the orthodontic {industry} once more with our unprecedented capability to direct print units.”

Though Align has actively expanded its technological horizons by a number of acquisitions since 2011, together with Cadent, GL Dental Couture Restricted, and exocad, that is the primary time the model has integrated a 3D printed firm into its fold. This transfer represents a serious strategic step for Align and suggests a strategic give attention to integrating superior 3d printing into its product providing.

Picture courtesy of Align Expertise.

Market Dynamics

Whereas Align continues to innovate and increase, notably its foray into 3D printing expertise, the clear aligner {industry} is experiencing vital adjustments. Specifically, the closure of SmileDirectClub in 2023 marked a shift within the sector. Recognized for its direct-to-consumer mannequin, SmileDirectClub contrasts with Invisalign’s method, which has all the time prioritized skilled, in-person care and fittings. The departure of SmileDirectClub from the market not solely highlights the complexities inherent within the clear aligner market but additionally solidifies Invisalign’s position as a number one supplier on this discipline.

Invisalign’s clear dental aligners, which steadily straighten tooth by sustained stress, require altering each one to a few weeks, with complete therapy durations extending over a number of months. The absence of SmileDirectClub from the market additional accentuates Invisalign’s position as a key participant in orthodontic remedies. With its confirmed monitor file and the acquisition of Cubicure now boosting its capabilities, Invisalign may attempt to set new benchmarks in orthodontic care.