Next Growth Opportunity in Clear Aligner Therapy

The global B2B orthodontic market is valued at $7 billion, with 21 million annual case starts divided between fixed appliances (B&W) and clear aligners. A closer look at these figures provides valuable insights into market dynamics:

• Fixed appliances (B&W) generate $1.7 billion (24% of the total market value), covering 12.5 million cases, which accounts for 60% of all annual case starts.

• Clear aligners account for $5.3 billion (76% of the total market value), corresponding to 8.5 million cases, or 40% of annual case starts.

A key factor shaping the market’s future is the distribution of orthodontic treatments across patient cohorts. Currently, nearly 70% of all orthodontic case starts are in non-adult patients, a segment still largely dominated by orthodontists. However, as aligner therapy expands, both orthodontists and dentists will play essential roles in meeting the increasing demand.

Evolving Roles of Orthodontists and Dentists in Aligner Therapy

Orthodontists continue to drive demand for innovation in aligner therapy, particularly for cases traditionally treated with fixed appliances. Technological advancements, such as Mandibular Advancement, Invisalign First aligners, and the latest Palatal Expander System for Phase 1 or early interceptive treatment (Invisalign®), now account for a growing share of cases previously treated with brackets and wires. The same applies to adult cases, where aligners are increasingly combined with surgical or adjunctive treatments, allowing orthodontists to manage more complex malocclusions.

At the same time, dentists are expanding their role in clear aligner therapy. With comprehensive onboarding, including case selection guidance, diagnostics, and integration into digital workflows, they primarily treat less complex malocclusions, leading to greater predictability and improved clinical outcomes. Structured clinical training and guided case support are essential in helping dentists develop the expertise needed to manage specific treatment categories effectively.

The Next Growth Opportunity in Clear Aligner Therapy

With diverse clinical and aesthetic demands across a broad demographic, aligner therapy is no longer limited to a single provider group. Both orthodontists and dentists have an opportunity to capture growth by addressing the unique needs of different patient segments.

• Orthodontists will continue to lead in treating complex cases and expanding aligner applications in younger patients’ segments.

• Dentists will play an increasing role in treating mild to moderate malocclusions, provided they follow structured onboarding and training programs.

As aligner therapy adoption rises, collaboration between these provider segments will be essential in serving the full spectrum of patient needs. Companies that effectively align their go-to-market strategies with these evolving dynamics will be well-positioned for success.

At ConCom Dental, we help Clear Aligner Companies navigate this evolving landscape - whether by optimizing strategies within the orthodontic segment or expanding aligner treatment among dentists.

We will be attending IDS 2025 in Cologne and welcome the opportunity to discuss how your business can successfully position itself in this growing market. Reach out to schedule a conversation.