Nasdaq-listed digital orthodontics and restorative dentistry technology company Align Technology (Align) has announced that it was expanding its presence in South Africa, including the appointment of a country manager. The company has a current global customer base of more than 291 000 doctors.

“South Africa presents a growth opportunity for Align Technology, with increasing digital adoption, potential for development and rising demand for orthodontic treatments, driving the expansion of innovative dentistry solutions across the region,” explained company GM Middle East and Africa Angelo Maura. “In response, we are further strengthening our presence in South Africa with the same strategic focus areas on which we’ve built Align Technology’s global success: continuous innovation, doctor-led therapy, and product superiority.”

Digital technology provides increased accuracy in treatment, improved comfort for the patient, greater clinical efficiency and care that is more personalised. The use of digital tools in dentistry has thus been increasing and is expected to see rapid growth in the future. The potential global consumer market totalls 600-million. And it was forecast, by Market Research Future, that the global digital dentistry market would be worth $17.7-billion in 2035. 

Align’s first country manager for South Africa is Berenice Monzeglio. She will head an expanded in-country team, including sales representatives. Her team would also undertake greater engagement with local dental practitioners and deliver wider research and training initiatives.

“Align Technology is more than a medical device company; we are striving to be a strong, supportive partner for dental practitioners who want to give their patients healthier and more beautiful smiles,” affirmed Maura. “We look forward to providing world-class digital dentistry tools and solutions to even more South African practitioners for improved patient outcomes and practice efficiencies.”

Founded 28 years ago, the company is best known for its Invisalign clear alignment system, iTero intraoral scanners and exocad CAD/CAM software. Since it was introduced, as the company’s first product, Invisalign has been used to treat more than 21.4-million patients, worldwide.

“Our expanded presence in South Africa underscores [our] commitment to empowering local practitioners and advancing the next wave of digital transformation in oral care,” he assured.