ArchForm provides orthodontists with a more cost-effective way to create retainers and teeth aligners for patients by tapping into the power of 3D printing. 

Orthodontists can now 3D print retainers and other teeth aligners thanks to a newly developed software. ArchForm is an Aligner software that enables orthodontists to develop and design 3D printed retainers from the comfort of their offices.

This has huge benefits for clients and practitioners alike as it provides convenience and speed. At the same time, it will enable orthodontists to compete more effectively with commercial companies to provide features at a fraction of the cost.

Founder of the company Andrew Martz tells TechCrunch by email:

“I was inspired to start the company because I worked in my father’s orthodontic office,” he says.

“I saw that 3D printers had advanced for enough to make these devices in dental offices, and knew from experience that easy-to-use software to virtually move the teeth was the missing piece to allow every orthodontist to 3D print their own aligners.”

Traditionally, braces and retainers can cost as much as $7,000 for adults. According to Ibis World research, the orthodontics market in the US was worth a whopping $11 billion in 2017.

Drastic Cost Reduction Thanks to ArchForm

Practitioners could drastically reduce costs by using the ArchForm software coupled to a 3D printer. Indeed, companies such as Invisalign are currently charging a fee of $1,700 per patient. Patients then carry these costs. In comparison, ArchForm charges just $50 per patient.

Additionally, 3D printers aren’t too costly at around $3,000 per printer. Many orthodontist offices already install one printer.

Indeed, ArchForm said that 75% of its clients already owned 3D printers.

Martz added that orthodontists were now also able to do a better job at accurately fitting a mouth piece.

“To make clear aligners work, raised buttons/attachments are placed on teeth as a way for the aligner to grip the teeth and make them fully straight. Tele-dentistry companies don’t have these — which are a very fundamental part of orthodontic treatment,” he said.

Practices not planning to invest in a 3D printer can still benefit from using ArchForm by sending in their designs. ArchForm then processes the order and ships it back to the client.