by History and Evolution of Orthodontic Brackets Industry
Orthodontic brackets have come a long way since their inception in the 19th century. Some key milestones in the evolution of orthodontic brackets include:
– In 1840s, the concept of repositioning teeth first emerged when orthodontist Hullihen W.A. developed the first orthodontic appliance which consisted of gold chains and rubber bands. However, these early appliances were large, cumbersome and inefficient.
– In 1875, orthodontist Edward Hartley Angle developed the first basic edgewise bracket which consisted of a molar tube and a simple stainless steel bracket. This sparked the beginning of modern bracket systems. However, these early edgewise brackets were rudimentary in design.
– In 1950s, dental technicians began soldering stainless steel wires directly to bands placed around teeth. This led to the widespread use of stainless steel brackets and wires.
– In 1970s, the straight wire concept was introduced by Dr. Lawrence Andrews which enabled faster tooth movement through light continuous aligning forces. This concept forms the basis of most modern Global Orthodontic Brackets designs today.
– Contemporary brackets now feature smooth polished surfaces for reduced friction and improved biocompatibility. Specialty brackets like lingual, self-ligating and debonding brackets further enhance treatment efficiency and aesthetics. 3D printing is also enabling patient-specific customized bracket designs.
Market Segmentation based on Orthodontic Brackets Industry
Metal Brackets
– Conventional Metal Brackets: Traditional edgewise brackets made of stainless steel or aesthetic metal alloys. Inexpensive but can cause gum irritation or staining.
– Lingual Brackets: Brackets bonded to inside surface of teeth for discrete orthodontic treatment. More expensive and difficult to bond and adjust.
Ceramic Brackets
– Polycrystalline Ceramic Brackets: Stronger than traditional ceramic but less translucent. More durable than porcelain.
– Monocrystalline Ceramic Brackets: Made of denser material providing superior translucent aesthetics but more expensive than polycrystalline ceramic.
Self-Ligating Brackets
– Closed Self-Ligating Brackets: Global Orthodontic Brackets have a passive clip to hold wire in place replacing ligatures for enhanced comfort and reduced treatment times.
– Open Self-Ligating Brackets: Brackets have a door or slider that patient can open to place or replace wire. Faster treatment but more expensive than conventional brackets.
Online Custom 3D Printed Brackets
– Online vendors now provide custom 3D printed brackets based on digital models of patient’s teeth for ultimate fit and aesthetic results. However, higher costs limit widespread adoption currently.
Global Orthodontic Brackets Market Dynamics
Rising Demand for Adult Orthodontic Treatment
– Growing social acceptance of orthodontics has led to rise in adult patients opting for braces for aesthetic or functional reasons. Adult segment now constitutes 30-40% of the overall orthodontic patient pool globally.
Increasing Accessibility and Affordability of Clear Aligners
– Clear aligners like Invisalign offer a discrete alternative to braces appealing to adult demographic. Their lower costs and flexibility are driving global clear aligner revenues to surpass $5 billion by 2026. However, they are best suited for mild to moderate cases only.
Technological Advancements spur Market Growth
– Self-ligating brackets that reduce treatment times by 25-40% and lingual brackets offering superior aesthetics are driving orthodontic surgeries. CAD/CAM customized clear aligners and 3D printed brackets present new opportunities.
Strong Emergence of Low Cost Manufacturing in Asia Pacific
– China, India and other Asian countries now account for over 60% of global orthodontic brackets production due to low costs, high productivity and growing local demand from large untapped patient pools. This is putting pricing pressure on Western manufacturers.
Rising Orthodontist Investments in Latest Equipment
– To attract more patients and boost practice revenues, orthodontists are investing heavily in latest 3D imaging equipment, debonding/bonding lights, self-ligating systems etc. driving overall market growth. North America leads such technology adoptions currently followed by Western Europe.
Role of Dental Laboratories in Brackets Market
– Majority of orthodontic brackets are produced by small-medium specialized dental labs using technologies like die-casting, CNC machining or 3D printing rather than in-house manufacturing by few large players like 3M or Dentsply Sirona. Labs play a vital role in supplying customized indirect bonding trays or clear aligners to orthodontists as well.
Growth Strategies of Global Orthodontic Brackets Vendors
– Larger players are focusing on developing advanced patented bracket designs, self-ligating systems, clear aligners, customer loyalty programs and acquisitions to strengthen global footprint. Regional medium players cater to low-cost solutions. Online D2C startups like SmileDirectClub are disrupting orthodontics space as well. Exports from China and India are rising as overseas manufacturing hubs.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
