Align Technology created the Invisalign Palatal Expanders System as an alternative to metal palatal expanders.
The system is intended to be used for rapid expansion and holding of the skeletal or dental narrow maxilla during orthodontic treatment, according to a Sept. 6 news release from Align.
The expanders system utilizes direct 3D printed devices over increments to expand the patient's narrow maxilla to the desired position. It is Align's first directly fabricated orthodontic appliance.
The technology is currently only available in Canada, but is pending premarket notification from the FDA, the release said. Align expects to make the system available in other markets in 2024.