Align Technology Unveils Invisalign® Palatal Expander System

Align Technology, Inc., the makers of the Invisalign® System of clear aligners, has introduced the Invisalign® Palatal Expander System, designed to address skeletal expansion in growing patients. This new solution offers a removable, safe, and clinically effective alternative to traditional metal palate expanders, catering to the needs of young patients, including teenagers, who make up the majority of orthodontic case starts worldwide.

3D Printed Device

The Invisalign Palatal Expander System is a pioneering direct 3D printed orthodontic device built on proprietary and patented technology. It is intended for use in rapidly expanding and maintaining the skeletal and/or dental narrow maxilla (upper jaw) of patients with primary, mixed, or permanent dentition during their growth phase. Unlike conventional metal expanders that require manual screw turning in the mouth daily, this innovative system offers a more comfortable and hygienic alternative.

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Each device within the Invisalign Palatal Expander System is customised to the patient’s unique anatomy based on a digital scan from Align’s iTero™ intraoral scanners. A treatment plan and device design are then created using Align’s proprietary AI-driven orthodontic software.

Addressing Early Orthodontic Needs

This system supports Phase 1 early interceptive orthodontic treatment for young patients, typically between the ages of 6 and 10, before all permanent teeth have erupted. Invisalign First clear aligners are designed specifically for this purpose, addressing a wide range of orthodontic needs in younger patients, including dental arch expansion.

Dr. Sandra Tai, an orthodontist in Vancouver, Canada, who participated in Align’s Invisalign Palatal Expander System limited release program, praised the system, stating, “The Invisalign Palatal Expander System is a game changer, as it alleviates the most common challenges with palatal expansion, including maintaining proper hygiene, emergency appointments, turning the screw, and the parent’s fear of causing pain to the child in treatment.”

She further emphasised that this system is removable and promotes oral hygiene while delivering an effective and comfortable treatment experience, resulting in high satisfaction rates reported by parents.

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Availability and Expansion

The Invisalign Palatal Expander System is currently available on a limited basis in Canada (excluding Quebec) and is expected to become available in other markets after receiving regulatory approvals, beginning in 2024.

This system is pending pre-market notification (510(k) submission) to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is not yet available in the United States.

About Align Technology, Inc.

Align Technology has been at the forefront of digital orthodontics for 26 years. The company’s Invisalign System, iTero intraoral scanners, and exocad CAD/CAM software have transformed the field of dentistry. Align Technology is dedicated to improving patient outcomes and practice efficiencies for orthodontists and GP dentists worldwide. Visit www.aligntech.com for more information.

About the Invisalign Palatal Expander System

The Invisalign Palatal Expander System is a direct 3D printed orthodontic appliance designed based on proprietary and patented technology. It is intended for use in the rapid expansion and subsequent maintenance of the narrow maxilla (upper jaw, dental arch, palate) during interceptive treatment in children and adolescents. These 3D printed devices are customised to each patient’s anatomy, offering a more comfortable and hygienic alternative to traditional expanders.

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