Align Technology Launches Invisalign® With Mandibular Advancement for Class II Correction
Align Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: ALGN), a globally recognized medical device company specializing in digital orthodontics and restorative dentistry, has announced the commercial availability of its latest innovation: the Invisalign System with mandibular advancement featuring occlusal blocks. This advanced treatment is designed to address Class II skeletal and dental correction by simultaneously advancing the mandible while aligning the teeth, providing orthodontic practitioners with an effective solution for growing patients.
A Breakthrough in Clear Aligner Technology
The Invisalign System with mandibular advancement featuring occlusal blocks represents Align’s first clear aligner product with integrated solid occlusal blocks, making it a major advancement in orthodontic treatment. By offering predictable mandibular advancement, this system enhances patient outcomes, durability, and efficiency. The occlusal blocks improve engagement and enable vertical opening, allowing for earlier advancement of the mandible, especially in cases like Class II deep bite. This development is expected to significantly enhance treatment efficiency by reducing the need for multiple orthodontic appliances.
Addressing Class II Malocclusions in Growing Patients
Class II malocclusion is a prevalent orthodontic issue, affecting approximately 30-45% of cases globally. It is characterized by a misalignment where the lower jaw (mandible) is positioned too far back relative to the upper jaw (maxilla). If left untreated, Class II malocclusion can lead to functional impairments, aesthetic concerns, and long-term dental complications.
The Invisalign System with mandibular advancement featuring occlusal blocks is designed for patients aged 10-16, who are still experiencing skeletal growth. By leveraging natural growth potential during pre-adolescence and adolescence, this system enables effective correction of Class II malocclusions while also improving occlusal relationships, facial aesthetics, and long-term functional benefits.
Key Benefits of the Invisalign System with Mandibular Advancement Featuring Occlusal Blocks
1. Efficient Treatment Process
One of the standout features of this system is its ability to streamline treatment. By combining Class II malocclusion correction and dental alignment into a single process, patients can achieve results more efficiently. The occlusal blocks are solid with laser welding, ensuring structural rigidity and durability throughout treatment. This minimizes the risk of breakage and reduces the need for additional appointments. The solid nature of the occlusal blocks also allows for vertical opening, enabling the mandibular advancement (MA) phase to begin earlier, particularly in cases of Class II deep bite and Class II division 2 malocclusions.
2. Enhanced Patient Comfort and Compliance
Patient compliance is crucial in orthodontic treatments, and one of the primary concerns with traditional functional appliances is discomfort. The Invisalign System with mandibular advancement featuring occlusal blocks is made from patented SmartTrack™ material, which enhances predictability and comfort. Studies indicate that discomfort with functional appliances can negatively impact patient compliance, potentially leading to unsatisfactory treatment outcomes. By prioritizing patient comfort, this system encourages adherence to prescribed wear times, leading to better treatment success.
3. Predictable and Controlled Tooth Movement
A combination of innovative features, including SmartTrack™ material, SmartForce™ features, and SmartStage™ technology, ensures predictable tooth movement. Attachments placed on teeth under the occlusal blocks facilitate leveling and other necessary movements while preventing unwanted shifts. By improving control over tooth positioning, this system enhances the overall effectiveness of orthodontic treatment.
Expert Opinions and Clinical Feedback
Align Technology executives and leading orthodontic practitioners have expressed their enthusiasm for this breakthrough innovation.
“The Invisalign System with mandibular advancement featuring occlusal blocks reflects Align’s ongoing commitment to expanding the capabilities of the Invisalign System,” said Sreelakshmi Kolli, Align Technology EVP, chief product and digital officer. “This latest innovation enables doctors to treat a wider range of malocclusions with precision and efficiency, reinforcing clear aligners as the standard of care in digital orthodontics.”
Dr. Mitra Derakhshan, EVP and chief clinical officer at Align Technology, emphasized the practical benefits: “The integration of occlusal blocks enhances mandibular engagement while facilitating bite opening. This makes it a versatile solution for different Class II malocclusions, including deep bite and division 2 cases. The ability to address skeletal and dental discrepancies in a predictable manner improves outcomes for both doctors and patients.”
Practicing orthodontists have also shared their positive experiences with the new system. Dr. Ronald Sluiter, based in New Zealand, has treated 50 patients with the Invisalign System with mandibular advancement featuring occlusal blocks. He noted that “Treatment outcomes are on par with traditional Clark Twin Blocks, with the added benefit of increased comfort. Since comfort leads to compliance, and compliance leads to better outcomes, this new system enhances the overall treatment process.”
Dr. Steve Semaan from Australia highlighted the ease of use: “Patients instinctively know how to bite, and we don’t see crushed blocks. This eliminates unnecessary delays and additional appointments, making treatment more seamless.”
Dr. Belinda Weltman from Vancouver, BC, echoed similar sentiments: “Patients can bite down easily without risk of damaging or distorting the blocks. The mandibular advancement position is easy to maintain, and young patients transition to this appliance with minimal discomfort.”
Enhanced Functionality and Patient Experience
Beyond its effectiveness in correcting malocclusions, the Invisalign System with mandibular advancement featuring occlusal blocks offers several additional benefits that improve patient experience:
- Elimination of Auxiliary Elastics: Traditional Class II correction methods often require elastics, which can be challenging for patients to manage. The new Invisalign occlusal blocks remove the need for elastics, simplifying treatment.
- No Palatal Coverage: Unlike traditional removable Class II correctors, this system does not require palatal coverage, making it easier for patients to adapt to.
- Easy Insertion and Removal: Patients can remove their aligners for eating, which is not typically an option with fixed Class II correctors or elastics.
Dr. Francis Janisse from Windsor, Ontario, emphasized these benefits: “For patients with mandibular asymmetry, the occlusal blocks provide ideal block engagement to maintain proper mandibular positioning. The ability to remove aligners for eating enhances patient satisfaction and compliance.”
Availability and Market Expansion
The Invisalign System with mandibular advancement featuring occlusal blocks is now commercially available to Invisalign-trained doctors in Australia and New Zealand. A limited market release is currently underway in North America and most EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) countries, with a broader rollout expected throughout 2025.
This innovation complements Align Technology’s growing portfolio of orthodontic solutions for young patients, including the Invisalign® Palatal Expander System, Invisalign First™, and Invisalign System with mandibular advancement featuring enhanced precision wings. By offering a differentiated portfolio, Align continues to establish itself as a leader in digital orthodontic care.
