Glidewell Joins Forces With ORB Innovations to Revolutionize Smart Oral Devices

US: California-based dental solutions company Glidewell has recently acquired U.K.-based company ORB Innovations Limited, known for its patented technology that measures physiological and biomechanical activities within oral appliances. According to a press release, this strategic acquisition marks Glidewell’s foray into the realm of smart dental products.

The acquisition of ORB Innovations represents Glidewell’s commitment to bringing innovative solutions to dentists and patients worldwide, while exploring new avenues in the field, says the company.

Applications of ORB’s Technology

CEO of Glidewell, Stephenie Goddard, expressed enthusiasm for the potential applications of ORB’s technology, stating, “We see the platform the ORB team has developed as an exciting evolution for the sports market. And it’s easy to envision application in other wellness-related areas, in line with Glidewell’s mission to bring innovative solutions to dentists and their patients throughout the world.”

ORB Innovations was founded in 2017 by CEO Robert Paterson and CTO Thomas Quinn. The inspiration behind their venture stemmed from a personal experience when Paterson suffered a severe head injury (subdural hematoma) during a rugby game in 2010. 

Unfortunately, the injury was misdiagnosed, leading to a deterioration in Paterson’s health and confinement to bed for weeks. Determined to prevent others from enduring a similar fate, Paterson and Quinn established ORB Innovations with a focus on performance and wellness monitoring through their patented technology.

Expansion into Smart Dental Products

Expressing his excitement about joining the Glidewell family, Paterson stated, “As one of the largest dental companies in the world, with a 50-year track record of pioneering new technology, we feel we have found a natural home. The acquisition will allow us to accelerate the launch of our unique platform in the U.S. and to increase the pace of our research and development in other areas. Together, ORB Innovations and Glidewell will bring to market a whole range of smart oral products that will provide flexible new options for health-conscious consumers.”

This acquisition holds promising prospects for the development and commercialization of smart oral devices, and the companies hope to revolutionize the dental industry with their joined expertise.