21 November 2022

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Align Technology, Desktop Metal announce strategic collaboration

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Align Technology and Desktop Metal will collaborate to supply iTero Element Flex intraoral scanners to Desktop Labs, connecting general dentist locations with its growing network of premium full-service labs.

The iTero Element Flex intraoral scanner will be the exclusive restorative scanner for Desktop Labs, which is already one of the largest lab networks in the U.S, serving general dentists.

According to the release, the iTero Element Flex intraoral scanner gives doctors increased mobility and freedom to provide care anywhere they see patients. The wand-only configuration allows doctors to perform full arch scans even in the smallest office. In addition, the scanner enables doctors to work more efficiently with dental labs, sending restorative STL files directly to the lab or exporting them from the iTero cloud without leaving the office.

Desktop Labs provides high-quality digital design and manufacturing solutions to GP dentists through its trusted community of labs, such as DAL, using various state-of-the-art technologies, including Desktop Health 3D printers and materials. The company also uses Einstein 3D printers and Flexcera, a family of FDA 510(k)-cleared Class 2 materials for the fabrication of permanent dental restorations. Both Desktop Labs and Desktop Health are wholly owned subsidiaries of Desktop Metal.

Ric Fulop, founder and CEO of Desktop Metal, said the company stands ready — with Align — to help dentists deliver precise, durable dental solutions to patients faster.

“We expect all restorative components to move to digital manufacturing within the next decade, enabled by better material properties and an improved fit, as well as expansion of insurance coverage to digital solutions,” he said in the release.