Invisalign is a revolutionary brand of clear aligners manufactured by Align Technology, a global medical device company. Founded by Zia Chishti and Kelsey Wirth in 1997, the company has since treated over 12.2 million patients with its clear align system. In 1998, the prototype product was approved by the FDA. Invisalign is not braces, but rather a series of trays or retainers that gradually move teeth to the desired position. The trays are made from a supreme grade of durable, transparent plastics that are sterile and comfortable to wear for extended periods.
To achieve the desired results, Invisalign trays must be worn for at least 22 hours daily. In 2002, 80,000 patients had benefited from Invisalign. Since then, the number has grown exponentially as the clear aligner market continues to boom in the country. SmileDirectClub recently announced that it will compete directly with Align Technology by selling its aligners to dentists and orthodontists. However, Align Technology still holds 80 percent of the market share, competing with products from companies like 3M Co. The invention of Invisalign clear aligners dates back to 1997 when Zia Chishti, a student at the time, was given a plastic retainer after completing his orthodontic treatment and having his metal braces removed.
After patenting their invention and receiving positive feedback from patients, Chishti and his colleagues started marketing the product to orthodontists. Align Technology continues to be the sole owner of Invisalign and its clear align system. With its innovative technology and commitment to providing quality care, Align Technology has revolutionized orthodontic treatment and changed the lives of millions of patients.
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