Revolutionizing Orthodontics: Invisalign’s Mandibular Advancement Feature with Occlusal Blocks

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Align Technology, a global leader in digital orthodontics, has introduced a transformative update to the Invisalign® System with the integration of mandibular advancement featuring occlusal blocks (MAOB). This innovative system combines precision-engineered occlusal blocks, also referred to as precision wings, with clear aligners to simultaneously advance the lower jaw and align teeth. Designed primarily for growing patients with Class II malocclusions, this system offers a seamless, aesthetic, and efficient alternative to traditional functional appliances like Twin Block or Herbst devices. By leveraging Align’s proprietary digital tools, the Invisalign MAOB system is redefining orthodontic care, delivering enhanced clinical outcomes and improved patient experiences. This article explores the features, benefits, clinical applications, and future potential of this groundbreaking technology in modern orthodontics.

Introduction to Invisalign’s Mandibular Advancement Feature

Class II malocclusions, characterized by a retruded mandible relative to the maxilla, affect approximately 30–45% of orthodontic patients, particularly children and adolescents in late mixed or early permanent dentition. Traditional treatments, such as headgear or functional appliances, are often bulky, uncomfortable, and visually unappealing, leading to poor patient compliance. The Invisalign® System with mandibular advancement featuring occlusal blocks addresses these challenges by integrating solid occlusal blocks into clear aligners. These blocks gently guide the lower jaw forward while simultaneously aligning teeth, offering a discreet, comfortable, and efficient solution. Launched in May 2025, this system reflects Align Technology’s commitment to advancing digital orthodontics and transforming patient care.

Key Features of the Invisalign MAOB System

The Invisalign MAOB system is distinguished by several innovative features that enhance its clinical effectiveness and patient appeal:

1. Integrated Occlusal Blocks

The system incorporates solid occlusal blocks, or precision wings, laser-welded into the aligners. These blocks act as functional appliances, guiding the mandible forward to correct Class II malocclusions while the aligners straighten teeth. The blocks are strategically positioned to engage when the patient bites, ensuring consistent mandibular advancement.

2. Simultaneous Treatment

Unlike traditional protocols that separate jaw correction and tooth alignment into distinct phases, the Invisalign MAOB system performs both functions concurrently. This dual-purpose design reduces overall treatment duration and simplifies treatment planning, making it ideal for growing patients (ages 10–16).

3. Robust and Durable Design

The occlusal blocks are engineered for durability, with laser-welded construction that minimizes the risk of breakage. This robust design ensures reliable performance throughout the treatment, even with consistent patient wear of 20–22 hours daily.

4. Digital Integration with ClinCheck®

The system leverages Align’s proprietary ClinCheck® software, which provides real-time treatment planning and visualization. ClinCheck® Live Update and preference templates allow orthodontists to monitor progress and make adjustments, ensuring precise and predictable outcomes.

5. Aesthetic and Comfortable Design

The clear aligners are virtually invisible, offering a significant aesthetic advantage over traditional appliances. The smooth, custom-fit aligners and integrated blocks enhance patient comfort, reducing irritation and encouraging compliance, especially among self-conscious teenagers.

Clinical Applications

The Invisalign MAOB system is primarily designed for:

  • Class II Malocclusion Correction: Addresses skeletal and dental discrepancies in growing patients with a retruded mandible, improving bite function and facial aesthetics.
  • Comprehensive Orthodontic Treatment: Combines mandibular advancement with tooth alignment for conditions like crowding, spacing, or misalignment.
  • Pediatric and Adolescent Orthodontics: Targets patients in late mixed or early permanent dentition, offering a less invasive alternative to traditional functional appliances.
  • Interceptive Orthodontics: Facilitates early intervention to guide jaw growth and prevent more complex treatments later, optimizing long-term outcomes.

Benefits of the Invisalign MAOB System

The Invisalign MAOB system offers significant advantages for both clinicians and patients, transforming the orthodontic experience:

For Clinicians

  • Streamlined Treatment Planning: Simultaneous jaw correction and tooth alignment reduce the need for multiple appliances or treatment phases, simplifying workflows.
  • Predictable Outcomes: Clinical studies demonstrate results comparable to traditional Class II treatments, with digital precision enhancing accuracy. ClinCheck® tools ensure real-time monitoring and adjustments.
  • Increased Efficiency: Reduced treatment duration and fewer patient visits improve practice productivity and patient satisfaction.
  • Training and Support: Align provides comprehensive training through platforms like www.invisalign.com, enabling orthodontists to master the MAOB system.

For Patients

  • Enhanced Comfort: The smooth, lightweight aligners and integrated blocks are less invasive than bulky appliances, minimizing discomfort and irritation.
  • Improved Aesthetics: The clear design is discreet, boosting confidence and compliance, particularly among teenagers.
  • Faster Results: Simultaneous treatment reduces overall treatment time, allowing patients to achieve their desired outcomes sooner.
  • Ease of Use: Removable aligners simplify oral hygiene and eating compared to fixed appliances, improving patient experience.

Expert Testimonials

Orthodontists worldwide have praised the Invisalign MAOB system for its clinical effectiveness and patient-centered design:

  • Dr. Ronald Sluiter, Orthodontist, New Zealand: “The Invisalign system with mandibular advancement delivers results comparable to Twin Block devices, but with significantly better patient comfort and compliance. It’s a game-changer for Class II treatments.”
  • Dr. Steve Semaan, Orthodontist, Australia: “The system works remarkably well. Patients intuitively know how to bite forward, and the occlusal blocks are incredibly stable—no breakage issues, even with active teens.”

These testimonials highlight the system’s reliability and its positive impact on both clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Availability and Market Rollout

The Invisalign MAOB system is commercially available in Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Hong Kong, India, the United States, Canada, and select EMEA countries as of May 2025. Align Technology is expanding availability to additional markets throughout 2025, supported by training programs for certified Invisalign providers. Orthodontists can access training and certification through www.invisalign.com or regional Align Technology representatives to integrate the MAOB system into their practices.

Challenges and Considerations

While the Invisalign MAOB system offers transformative benefits, some considerations include:

  • Patient Compliance: Success depends on patients wearing aligners for 20–22 hours daily. Clinicians must educate patients and monitor adherence to ensure optimal results.
  • Training Requirements: Orthodontists need training to master ClinCheck® planning and MAOB protocols. Align mitigates this through workshops, online courses, and events like the Invisalign® Ortho Summit.
  • Cost: The system may involve higher initial costs compared to traditional appliances, though reduced treatment time and fewer visits can offset expenses for practices and patients.
  • Case Selection: The system is most effective for growing patients with specific Class II malocclusions, requiring careful case assessment to ensure suitability.

Future Potential and Industry Impact

The Invisalign MAOB system aligns with the broader trend toward digital and patient-centered orthodontics. As digital dentistry evolves, future iterations may incorporate:

  • AI-Driven Enhancements: Integration with AI tools like Align X-ray Insights™ for predictive treatment planning and real-time monitoring.
  • Augmented Reality (AR): AR visualization for patient education, showing projected jaw and tooth alignment outcomes.
  • Expanded Indications: Potential applications for adult patients or more complex malocclusions as technology advances.

The system’s focus on aesthetics and comfort addresses the growing demand for discreet orthodontic solutions, particularly among younger patients. By reducing treatment complexity and duration, it positions Align Technology as a leader in interceptive orthodontics, potentially increasing access to care in underserved regions.

Conclusion

The Invisalign® System with mandibular advancement featuring occlusal blocks is a groundbreaking advancement in orthodontic care, offering a seamless, aesthetic, and efficient solution for Class II malocclusions. By combining jaw correction and tooth alignment in a single, comfortable device, it streamlines treatment, enhances patient compliance, and delivers clinically proven results. Supported by Align’s ClinCheck® software and global training initiatives, the system empowers orthodontists to achieve predictable outcomes while prioritizing patient comfort. As Align Technology continues to expand its availability and innovate within the Align™ Digital Platform, the Invisalign MAOB system is set to transform orthodontic practices worldwide, redefining the future of digital dentistry. For more information, visit www.aligntech.com or refer to the Align Technology Press Release from May 2025.