Invisible Orthodontics Market

Market Overview

The global invisible orthodontics market size was valued at USD 5.8 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 17.8 billion by 2031, registering a CAGR of 13.1% during the forecast period (2023-2031). The global need for aesthetics has boosted orthodontic therapy. Thus, the market grows as malocclusion becomes more common.

Invisible orthodontics is a subspecialty that offers discreet and aesthetically acceptable treatments for tooth straightening and bite correction. The main goal is treating orthodontic disorders without using apparent traditional braces. Invisible orthodontics encompasses a wide range of devices and techniques, each with unique advantages in terms of look, comfort, and convenience.

Increased usage of invisible orthodontics for cosmetic dentistry and increased dental disorders such as diastema, crowded teeth, open bites, crossbite, overbite, and underbite are expected to fuel market growth. Furthermore, increased awareness of invisible orthodontics worldwide has increased demand, fueling the invisible orthodontics market share. However, the high cost of invisible orthodontics and its adverse effects are expected to impede the growth of the invisible orthodontics market.

Market Dynamics

Global Invisible Orthodontics Market Drivers:

Aesthetic Concerns

The aesthetic concerns of individuals seeking orthodontic treatment have been a big motivator for the popularity of invisible orthodontics. Self-esteem and confidence can be improved with invisible orthodontics. Many patients, particularly adults, want to improve their smiles without the visible braces of traditional orthodontics. Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, exemplify an aesthetically pleasing solution. These clear trays are custom-made for each patient and offer a discrete solution to straighten teeth. Aesthetic concerns heavily influence consumer preference. Patients, particularly adults, increasingly opt for invisible orthodontic alternatives due to their discreet look and the absence of the conspicuous metal brackets associated with traditional braces.

A study found that 34% of participants picked clear aligners as their preferred orthodontic equipment. 37% of females and 30% of males chose clear aligners as the most favored appliance. Patients' preferences are changing, according to orthodontic practitioners. When discussing treatment choices with their patients, dentists, and orthodontists frequently emphasize the aesthetic benefits of invisible orthodontics. In conclusion, the aesthetic concerns of orthodontic treatment patients and the availability and developments in invisible orthodontic solutions such as clear aligners have contributed to the market trend.

Global Invisible Orthodontics Market Restraints:

Cost Consideration

Invisible orthodontic treatments, particularly transparent aligners, are sometimes believed to be more expensive than regular braces, which can limit their uptake. Clear aligners like Invisalign can be more expensive than traditional braces. For example, Invisalign treatment can cost between USD 3,000 and USD 8,000 in the United States, whereas traditional braces might cost between USD 2,500 and USD 6,000. According to Statista, the average cost of Invisalign treatment in the United States in 2021 will be around USD 5,000 per patient. This is more expensive than the average cost of traditional braces, approximately USD 4,937 per patient.

For people seeking orthodontic treatment, cost is a major consideration. The perceived higher cost of invisible orthodontics may put some people off. Compared to regular braces, limited insurance coverage for invisible orthodontic procedures might contribute to the expense barrier. Many insurance policies may provide more coverage for traditional orthodontic treatments. As a result, understanding the costs of invisible orthodontics is critical for clinicians and manufacturers to address affordability problems and make these treatments more accessible to a broader audience. Maintaining market growth requires striking a balance between cost, perceived value, and the long-term benefits of invisible orthodontics.

Global Invisible Orthodontics Market Opportunity:

Rising Adoption in Emerging Markets

There is untapped potential in emerging markets where knowledge and use of invisible orthodontics are still growing. Individuals in emerging markets are more inclined to seek sophisticated and aesthetically pleasing orthodontic solutions as disposable incomes rise and awareness grows. The Asia-Pacific area has significant commercial potential. The orthodontics market is changing in nations such as China and India as people become more mindful of dental aesthetics. The development of the middle class and a greater emphasis on personal appearance contributed to an increase in demand for invisible orthodontic solutions. Companies should use specialized marketing techniques to access emerging markets that promote the aesthetic benefits, comfort, and simplicity of invisible orthodontics. Offering educational programs for both practitioners and the general public can aid in the removal of cultural barriers and the establishment of trust in these markets.

Similar trends can be seen in South America and the Middle East, where cosmetic dentistry is gaining popularity. Companies can boost their awareness by forming alliances with local dental offices and participating in industry events. Through government-sponsored programs or awareness campaigns, collaboration with local health authorities and dental associations can support the introduction of invisible orthodontic solutions. Investors and orthodontic practitioners may discover chances to invest in clinics and practices in emerging markets, thereby accelerating the adoption of invisible orthodontics.

Regional Analysis

The global invisible orthodontics market analysis is conducted in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America.

North America Dominates the Global Market

North America is the most significant global invisible orthodontics market shareholder and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 13.4% over the forecast period. This is due to a greater emphasis on teeth and smiles, cosmetic dentistry, the presence of significant players, and the availability of a high-quality healthcare system and advanced medical technologies. Furthermore, the rising frequency of oral problems drives global orthodontics market growth. According to the American Oral Association, in June 2021, 85% of people in the United States were extremely concerned about their oral health.

Additionally, initiatives by a public agency to boost investment are another component of the region's market growth. For example, the Government of Canada reported in September 2022 that one-third of Canadians do not have dental insurance. The government has promised to give dental care to uninsured Canadians with a family income of less than USD 90,000 annually, beginning with children under 12 in 2022. This is the initial stage of the government's proposal to provide dental coverage for families earning less than USD 90,000, and it will allow eligible children under the age of 12 to get necessary dental care until a complete national dental care program is constructed. As a result, such activities will likely boost dentist visits for orthodontic operations, increasing market growth throughout the projection period. 

Asia-Pacific is anticipated to exhibit a CAGR of 13.6% over the forecast period. Due to a significant malocclusion patient population, increased awareness about using aligners for teeth alignment, and a spike in public-private expenditures for unmet medical needs, Asia-Pacific is predicted to grow at the quickest CAGR throughout the projection period. In Asia, the prevalence of malocclusion is 48%. Furthermore, the surge in medical tourism for treating various neurological ailments will likely fuel market expansion.

Furthermore, important competitors in the region contribute to market growth. Due to developments in industry infrastructure, increased spending on cosmetic dentistry, and the well-established presence of domestic companies in the region, Asia-Pacific offers profitable opportunities for key players operating in the invisible orthodontics market, registering the fastest growth rate during the forecast period. Furthermore, the development of contract manufacturing firms in the region presents a huge potential for new entrants. 

Europe held a sizable part of the global market. Increased use of transparent aligners among patients and increased orthodontic difficulties are expected to drive the market in these regions. Europe is known for embracing cutting-edge healthcare innovations. Innovations in 3D imaging, digital treatment planning, and manufacturing procedures assist the invisible orthodontics business.

The Middle East and Africa have great potential for the growth of worldwide invisible orthodontic devices owing to the region's rising per capita income, according to invisible orthodontics market insights. Compared to regular brackets, the relatively competitive pricing of invisible braces benefits the consumer, resulting in growth in the invisible orthodontics business.

Segmental Analysis

The global invisible orthodontics market is segmented based on product, age group, end-users, and region.

The market is further segmented by product into Clear Braces, Clear Aligners, and Lingual Braces.

Clear Aligners holds the market share. Clear aligners are custom-made, transparent trays that fit over the teeth and gradually shift them into the desired positions. The clear aligners category contributed the most revenue to the market. It will likely dominate during the projection period due to its practically undetectable look, making clear aligners a popular alternative for those who wish to straighten their teeth discreetly. They have clear aligners custom-made, transparent trays that fit over the teeth and gradually shift them into the desired positions.

Moreover, removing it for eating, brushing, and special events is possible. When compared to traditional braces, they are generally associated with less discomfort. Clear aligners, such as those produced by Invisalign, dominate the market because of their great aesthetic appeal and patient-friendly characteristics. Ongoing developments in 3D printing technology and digital treatment planning enhance the effectiveness and precision of clear aligners.

Clear braces are comparable to regular braces, except they use clear or tooth-colored brackets and less visible wires. They are less apparent than metal braces, making them a more discrete choice. Suitable for a wide range of orthodontic problems, including more complicated instances. Clear braces have become popular as an alternative for people not suited for clear aligners. The sector is distinguished by material and design improvements that increase beauty and functionality.

Based on Age group, the market is sub-segmented into Adults, Teens, and Children.

Teens account for the largest share of the invisible orthodontics market. Individuals in their adolescent years are included in the teen category. The teen category contributed the most revenue to the market in 2022 and will likely continue to dominate over the forecast period. This is because teenagers of all ages are the most concerned about their appearance, making them the segment's largest contributors. Teens, like adults, are frequently anxious about the appearance of orthodontic treatment. Parental decisions and guidance heavily influence the choice of orthodontic treatment for teenagers. Marketing techniques frequently target teenagers, emphasizing the aesthetic advantages and lifestyle compatibility with invisible orthodontic alternatives. Collaboration with influencers and celebrities is popular among the young audience.

Individuals who have achieved the age of maturity are classified as adults. Adults frequently value aesthetic factors, contributing to the popularity of invisible orthodontic solutions. Adults' busy lifestyles are best suited to removable solutions like transparent aligners. The growing public acceptability of adult orthodontic treatment fuels demand.

End-users can further bifurcate the market into Hospitals, Dental Clinics.

Dental Clinics influenced the market growth. Dental clinics, both standalone and in larger healthcare institutions, are a prominent end-user segment. Dental clinics are specialized rooms that offer a variety of dental procedures, including orthodontics. These clinics may employ orthodontists who specialize in tooth alignment and bite correction. In 2022, the dental clinics category contributed the most revenue. Dental clinics are frequently known as orthodontic care specialized centers, with devoted professionals and technology for teeth alignment procedures. 

Most invisible orthodontic procedures, like clear aligner treatments, are often performed in dentistry clinics. The rise in healthcare spending fuels the growth of the other section of the invisible orthodontic market.

One type of end-user for invisible orthodontic services is hospitals. Hospitals may provide orthodontic services as part of their dentistry and healthcare services. In some situations, hospitals typically handle various medical and dental treatments, including orthodontics. For specific instances, hospitals, particularly those with full dental departments, may provide orthodontic services. Hospitals may handle orthodontic treatments as part of a larger dental and healthcare portfolio.

Recent Developments

• September 2023- Attachment-free aligner activation is a new SmartForce feature announced by Align Technology, Inc. ("Align") (Nasdaq: ALGN), a leading global medical device company that produces, distributes, and designs the Invisalign® System of clear aligners, iTeroTM intraoral scanners, and exocadTM CAD/CAM software for digital orthodontics and restorative dentistry.
• July 2023- SmileDirectClub will work with Thérapie Clinic, a premier medical aesthetic provider, to increase SmileShop's presence in the United Kingdom and Ireland.