Traditionally, orthodontists used to treat malocclusion cases among kids, teens, and adults using wires and brackets. A breakthrough in the orthodontic market occurred when Align Technology introduced Invisalign clear aligners, a removable orthodontic appliance, after getting the FDA’s approval in 1998. The plastic trays of Invisalign provided a more comfortable, aesthetic, and convenient treatment option compared with wires and brackets and gained popularity over the last decade.

However, after a monopoly of around 20 years, Invisalign’s patents expired, and the market witnessed a surge in new clear aligner players. Many prominent dental companies, such as Dentsply Sirona, 3M, and Envista, launched clear aligners capitalizing on their well-established customer bases to push their brands.

Currently, the global clear aligners market comprises a handful of large players, and Invisalign continues to lead most markets. Table 1 below shows the main players in the market. However, the market is highly segmented at the country level. New business models have also emerged within the aligner space, with companies such as SmileDirectClub and Byte offering direct-to-consumer aligner options with minimum dentist intervention.