Clear Aligners Market Size, Share, Growth & Industry Analysis, By Material Type (Polyurethane, Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol, and Others), By Age Group (Adults and Teenager), By End-User (Hospitals, Dental and Orthodontal Clinics, and Others) and Regional Analysis, 2024-2031

Clear Aligners Market Size

The global Clear Aligners Market size was valued at USD 5.58 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow from USD 6.84 billion in 2024 to USD 34.60 billion by 2031, exhibiting a CAGR of 26.05% during the forecast period. The growth of the market is driven by rising consumer demand for aesthetic dental treatments, technological advancements, increasing awareness of oral health, and the preference for minimally invasive procedures.

In the scope of work, the report includes solutions offered by companies such as 3M, Align Technology, Inc., Argen, Candid Care Co., ClearCorrect Operating LLC, Dentsply Sirona, Henry Schein, Inc., Institut Straumann AG, Ormco Corporation, SmileDirectClub, and others.  

The growing prevalence of malocclusion and other dental disorders further fuels market growth. Additionally, the growing shift toward minimally invasive procedures and the increasing adoption of digital orthodontics support market development.

The convenience and aesthetic appeal of clear aligners over traditional braces makes them a preferred choice among consumers. Furthermore, increased disposable income and expanding healthcare infrastructure in emerging economies contribute to market expansion.

The clear aligners market is experiencing significant growth due to technological advancements and increasing consumer preference for aesthetic dental solutions. Clear aligners are transparent, removable dental devices that offer an alternative to traditional metal braces. North America dominates the market, followed by Europe and Asia-Pacific.

The presence of major market players, coupled with high disposable income and advanced healthcare infrastructure, supports the growth of the market in these regions. The market is expected to continue its upward trajectory, propelled by ongoing innovations and rising consumer demand for effective and discreet orthodontic treatments.

Clear aligners are custom-made, transparent dental devices designed to correct misaligned teeth and improve oral aesthetics. Clear aligners are removable and virtually invisible unlike traditional braces and provide a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing orthodontic solution. These devices work by gradually shifting teeth into their desired position through a series of custom-fitted aligners, with each aligner worn for a specific period.

Clear aligners are typically made from medical-grade, BPA-free plastic and are tailored to fit each patient’s unique dental structure. The treatment process involves digital imaging and 3D modelling to create precise aligners, thereby ensuring effective and personalized orthodontic care.     

Analyst’s Review

The clear aligners market is experiencing substantial growth, largely attributed to innovation and rising patient demand. Manufacturers are continuously refining aligner materials for improved comfort and effectiveness. Additionally, the integration of technologies such as 3D scanning and AI is streamlining treatment planning and potentially reducing treatment times.

• In April 2024, K Line Europe launched ClearX aligners with 4D-printing technology at the AAO Annual Session in New Orleans. These aligners used shape memory polymers (SMPs) that adjusted to two stages of teeth movement, reducing the number of aligners needed. SMPs changed shape in response to stimuli, improving the efficiency of orthodontic treatments and decreasing plastic use.

Clear Aligners Market Growth Factors

The clear aligners market is benefiting from advancements in digital technologies. 3D scanning and computer-aided design (CAD) software are enabling orthodontists to create highly customized treatment plans with precise tooth movement predictions. Additionally, innovative materials such as biocompatible plastic and improved manufacturing techniques are leading to the production of more comfortable, durable, and effective aligner trays.

• For instance, Align Technology, a major player in the market, increasingly invests in research and development to refine its iTero digital scanning system and Invisalign aligner material. These advancements are improving treatment outcomes while also streamlining the overall orthodontic process.

However, the higher cost associated with clear aligners presents a key challenge hindering their wider adoption. Treatment with clear aligners is often significantly more expensive compared to traditional braces, posing a barrier for some patients. This is particularly ecident in regions with limited insurance coverage for orthodontic treatment.

To address this challenge, some manufacturers are introducing more affordable aligner options and partnering with dental service organizations (DSOs) to offer financing plans. Additionally, the emergence of direct-to-consumer aligner companies is disrupting the market by offering lower-cost treatment models. However, these models often lack the direct supervision of an orthodontist, which gives rise to concerns regarding treatment efficacy and potential complications.

Clear Aligners Market Trends

The market is witnessing a notable trend toward expanding the applications of clear aligners beyond basic teeth straightening. Manufacturers are developing aligner systems for treating more complex orthodontic cases, including mild to moderate crowding, gaps, as well as certain overbite and open bite issues.

This trend is further fueled by advancements in aligner materials and manufacturing techniques that enable these aligners to exert more controlled and precise forces on teeth. Additionally, the growing expertise of orthodontists in treating with clear aligners is fostering confidence in using them for a wider range of orthodontic corrections.

The integration of teledentistry is a growing trend impacting the clear aligners market. Teledentistry platforms enable remote consultations and monitoring between orthodontists and patients undergoing clear aligner treatment. This approach offers greater flexibility and convenience for patients, particularly those in geographically remote areas or with busy schedules.

It further allows for more frequent check-ins and monitoring of treatment progress, potentially improving treatment outcomes. However, the effectiveness of teledentistry in clear aligner treatment relies heavily on clear communication protocols and the availability of reliable remote monitoring tools.

Segmentation Analysis

The global market is segmented based on material type, age group, end-user, and geography.

By Material Type

Based on material type, the market is categorized into polyurethane, polyethylene terephthalate glycol, and others. The polyurethane segment led the clear aligners market in 2023, reaching a valuation of USD 2.67 billion. Polyurethane is a highly versatile material known for its strength, flexibility, and biocompatibility. These properties make it ideal for creating clear aligners that are comfortable to wear, effective in applying force to teeth, and resistant to damage during treatment.

Additionally, advancements in polyurethane formulations have led to the development of more comfortable and clear aligner trays, thereby augmenting segmental growth.

By Age Group

Based on age group, the market is classified into adults and teenager. The teenager segment is poised to experience significant growth at a CAGR of 26.67% through the forecast period (2024-2031). This expansion is fueled by a growing emphasis on aesthetics among teenagers, coupled with rising disposable income in some regions.

Teens are increasingly seeking discreet and comfortable orthodontic solutions to address misaligned teeth, with clear aligners emerging as a viable alternative to traditional braces. Furthermore, the growing awareness regarding clear aligners among parents, coupled with the increasing adoption of teledentistry, that caters to busy teenage schedules, is expected to contribute to the expansion of this segment.

By End-User

Based on end-user, the market is segmented into hospitals, dental and orthodontal clinics, and others. The dental and orthodontal clinics segment secured the largest clear aligners market share of 46.85% in 2023. This dominance is fostered by the expertise of orthodontists and dentists in treatment planning, aligner fitting, and monitoring treatment progress.

These professionals ensure proper aligner wear and address any potential complications that may arise during treatment. While direct-to-consumer aligner companies are gaining prominence, the crucial role of dental professionals in achieving optimal treatment outcomes is likely to maintain the dominant position of dental and orthodontic clinics in the foreseeable future.

Clear Aligners Market Regional Analysis

Based on region, the global market is classified into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, MEA, and Latin America.

North America clear aligners market share stood around 36.19% in 2023 in the global market, with a valuation of USD 2.02 billion. The region boasts a well-established healthcare infrastructure and a high level of disposable income, enabling greater access to advanced dental treatments. Moreover, the presence of major market players and a high rate of technological adoption contribute to domestic market expansion.

The increasing prevalence of dental issues, coupled with growing awareness regarding oral health and aesthetic solutions, further influences regional market. Additionally, strong marketing campaigns and growing consumer preference for minimally invasive treatments are leading to increased demand for clear aligners in this region.

Asia-Pacific is poised to experience notable growth, recording a CAGR of 28.01% through the projection period. This rapid growth is reinforced by tments. Improved healthcare infrastructure and greater access to dental care services are further contributing to this expansion. Additionally, growing awareness regarding oral health and the advantages of clear aligners over traditional braces are boosting demand in the region.

Additionally, the region's large and young population, coupled with the increasing adoption of digital technologies in orthodontics, fosters Asia-Pacific market growth.

Competitive Landscape

The global clear aligners market report will provide valuable insight with an emphasis on the fragmented nature of the industry. Prominent players are focusing on several key business strategies such as partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, product innovations, and joint ventures to expand their product portfolio and increase their market shares across different regions.

Manufacturers are adopting a range of strategic initiatives, including investments in R&D activities, the establishment of new manufacturing facilities, and supply chain optimization, to strengthen their market standing.

List of Key Companies in Clear Aligners Market

• 3M 
• Align Technology, Inc.
• Argen
• Candid Care Co.
• ClearCorrect Operating LLC
• Dentsply Sirona
• Henry Schein, Inc.
• Institut Straumann AG
• Ormco Corporation
• SmileDirectClub

Key Industry Development

• February 2023 (Launch): SmileDirectClub, Inc. unveiled CarePlus, its new premium aligner treatment at select Partner Network dentist locations. CarePlus offered a tech-forward orthodontic option that blends both in-person and virtual patient management,complemented by enhanced services and care from SmileDirectClub's network of dental professionals.

The global clear aligners market is segmented as:

By Material Type

• Polyurethane
• Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol
• Others

By Age Group

• Adults
• Teenager

By End-User

• Hospitals
• Dental and Orthodontal Clinics
• Others

By Region

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • France
  • U.K.
  • Spain
  • Germany
  • Italy
  • Russia
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia-Pacific
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • North Africa
  • South Africa
  • Rest of Middle East & Africa
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Argentina
  • Rest of Latin America