The direct 3D-printed device provides rapid expansion and subsequent holding of skeletal and/or dental narrow maxilla (upper jaw). It enables primary, mixed or permanent dentition during the treatment of growing patients.
Align said the Invisalign palatal expander is its first direct 3D-printed orthodontic device. The Tempe, Arizona-based company says it provides a safe, comfortable and clinically effective alternative to metal palatal expanders. Those devices requires manually turning a screw in the device in the mouth daily to achieve expansion.
“I am very proud to unveil the Invisalign Palatal Expander System, our latest innovation in digital orthodontics based on proprietary and patented technology that builds on many industry firsts designed for treatment of children and teens, including Invisalign treatment with Mandibular Advancement and Invisalign First aligners,” said Srini Kaza, Align SVP of product R&D. “It is extremely rewarding for our team of engineers and material scientists to produce Align’s first directly fabricated orthodontic appliance and pave the way for future innovation using direct 3D printing technology that enables more sustainable and efficient solutions.”
More about the Align Technology expander system
The system features a series of removable devices staged in small increments of movements, Align said. It expands a patient’s narrow maxilla to a position determined by their treating doctor. Customization of each device to a patient’s unique anatomy comes through an iTero digital scan. Align’s proprietary, AI-driven orthodontic software then develops a treatment plan and device design.
According to Align, the expanders help in Phase 1 treatment for young patients, typically ages six through 10. The company says these cases make up 20% of orthodontic case starts each year and the number continues to grow. Providing an expander with the Invisalign system’s capabilities offers more options for patients during their teenage years.
The company now offers the expander system on a limited basis in Canada (excluding Quebeck). It expects availability to come in additional markets pending regulatory approval, beginning next year. Align’s system remains investigational in the U.S., pending 510(k) clearance with the FDA.
