Objet Eden500V 3D Printer.
ClearCorrect LLC, a leading manufacturer of clear orthodontic aligners, has expanded its 3D printing capacity to accelerate the production of custom-made orthodontic aligners.
ClearCorrect’s orthodontic aligners are a substitute for the metal braces traditionally used to straighten teeth. The ability to remove the aligners allows patients to eat foods that were a problem with traditional braces, and ensures easy access for brushing and flossing. The aligners are more comfortable than their metal counterparts, and the plastic material used is compatible with individuals who are sensitive or allergic to metal components.
“Initially we started with just a few Stratasys 3D printers, and we have quickly transitioned to full production, where 100 percent of our models are now 3D printed,” explained Jarrett Pumphrey, CEO of ClearCorrect. “We’re growing fast and adding more Stratasys 3D printers to our digital workflow means that we can easily scale up with demand—enabling us to service more orthodontists with faster delivery times.”
With the addition of more Stratasys Objet Eden500V 3D Printers, the company can quickly print 3D models throughout each step of a patient’s orthodontic treatment. Starting with a 3D scan of a patient’s mouth, the data is used to create accurate 3D printed models in Stratasys’ VeroDent material, which are then thermoformed with a specially formulated plastic to create custom, clear aligners. When worn, the aligners will apply pressure to the patient’s teeth that need to be moved. Every two to three weeks, the patient will begin wearing a new set of aligners to continue the realignment process until treatment is complete.
3D printed clear orthodontic aligner.
Expanding its already large fleet of Stratasys machines, the company will be able to shorten lead times and accommodate rush orders more efficiently. The ability to customise aligners to each patient-specific case and then manufacture quickly, means that 3D printing is the ideal option for these aligners which will require re-scanning and re-printing at short intervals per customer until they have finished treatment.
Avi Cohen, Director of Global Dental at Stratasys, added: “We wanted to help the ClearCorrect team take their already booming business to new levels. The versatility of the Objet Eden500V 3D Printers gives ClearCorrect the ability to efficiently manufacture high quality aligners on a mass scale, expand in existing markets, and enter new markets. The decision to expand their 3D printing operation demonstrates how Stratasys has earned ClearCorrect’s trust through reliable performance and customer support.”
