Over the past few decades, orthodontic treatment has undergone a significant transformation and progression. One of the most impressive developments was the introduction of Invisalign. These clear aligners are known for their discreet and comfortable design, and Invisalign has become a popular alternative to traditional metal braces over recent years. We are often asked by our clients about the origin and evolution of Invisalign. Keep reading as we discover the history of Invisalign, from its invention to how it’s made and who manufactures it today. Our team will be here to answer any questions you have about Invisalign clear aligners and support you in deciding if this is the right dental treatment for your needs.
Who Invented Invisalign?
The story of Invisalign began in the late 1990s when a Stanford University student named Zia Chishti came up with the initial idea for Invisalign braces. Chishti was undergoing orthodontic treatment and was frustrated by the discomfort and limitations of metal braces. Once his braces were removed, he received a plastic retainer and considered that similar clear aligners could be used progressively to straighten teeth. Teaming up with a fellow Stanford student, Kelsey Wirth, Chishti set out to develop a new method of orthodontic treatment that would use a series of removable, clear plastic trays.
When Was Invisalign Invented?
This innovation would evolve into the system we know today as Invisalign. In 1997, the duo founded a company called Align Technology, which would soon become a market leader in the world of orthodontics. Initially met with scepticism by many dental professionals, the concept challenged the assumption that only traditional braces could effectively correct teeth misalignments. Over time and thanks to impressive clinical results, Invisalign gradually gained acceptance in the orthodontic community. In 1999, the product became available to the public after receiving FDA approval in the United States. Invisalign clear aligners were soon offered around the world, offering patients a more subtle and comfortable alternative to metal braces.
How Is Invisalign Made?
The production process behind Invisalign combines digital innovation, 3D printing, and orthodontic expertise. The first step in creating Invisalign braces involves taking a digital scan of the patient’s teeth. These scans are then uploaded to the software that creates a 3D model of the patient’s mouth. Using this model, a personalised treatment plan is created, showing how the teeth will gradually shift into the desired position during the treatment time. Based on this plan, a series of custom clear aligners are manufactured using medical-grade, BPA-free plastic. Each aligner is designed to move the teeth slightly over a one- to two-week period before being replaced by the next aligner in the series.
Who Makes Invisalign?
Align Technology is still the only manufacturer of Invisalign clear aligners. While there are now other companies that offer similar technology and clear aligners, Invisalign is the original and most trusted in the dental field. With its headquarters located in Tempe, Arizona, the company operates globally, with manufacturing and distribution centres in North America, Asia, and Europe. Since its creation, Align Technology has continued to innovate and develop its offerings, introducing new features such as SmartTrack material for a better fit and SmartForce attachments to enhance the treatment results.
Following its launch in 1999, Invisalign quickly became one of the fastest-growing orthodontic treatments in the world. Today, Invisalign is used by millions of patients worldwide and prescribed by over 100,000 trained orthodontists and dentists. By the early 2000s, Align Technology had gone public on the NASDAQ stock exchange, raising significant capital to support its ongoing research, development, and global expansion. From a simple idea from a student who was frustrated with their braces, it’s incredible to see how far Invisalign has come over the past decades.
Why Invisalign Changed Orthodontics
Invisalign revolutionised orthodontic care by making braces more accessible and aesthetically pleasing for adults and teenagers alike. Traditional braces offer effective results but often come with feelings of discomfort, dietary restrictions, and embarrassment, particularly among adults who are looking to invest in this treatment later on in life. With Invisalign, patients can remove their aligners to eat, brush, and floss, encouraging better oral hygiene throughout the treatment time. The digital treatment planning used in the process also gives both patients and dentists a clear picture of expected outcomes.
The journey of Invisalign from a Stanford student’s idea to a globally recognised brand shows what innovation and persistence can achieve. While it received a mixed reception in its early years, Invisalign has now transformed the way we approach teeth straightening and is trusted by dentists globally. Are you looking to invest in Invisalign to improve the appearance of your teeth? Contact us today to learn more about Invisalign or to book your initial consultation with our team to see if this is a good option for your current dental goals.