The Straumann Group has accelerated its strategy to enter the world’s second largest market for orthodontic clear aligners1 by partnering with Tianjin ZhengLi Technology Company Limited (ZhengLi Technology), whose clear-aligner system has regulatory approval in China. Straumann has obtained exclusive distribution rights in China for their aligners and will leverage its strong marketing, training, distribution and service capabilities to penetrate the highly attractive market. The two partners will collaborate to develop enhanced solutions in esthetic dentistry.
“The need for orthodontic treatment in China is huge and ZhengLi Technology provides us with convenient, affordable, high-quality, state-of-the-art clear-aligner solutions that we can commercialise immediately. We have the sales and logistics network to reach customers across the country, as well as the organisation and infrastructure to provide training, education and customer service. Straumann also offers digital solutions, including intraoral scanning, 3D printing, and milling options to support dentists offering aligner, restorative and replacement procedures. With this and our in-house expertise in clear aligners we are in a great position to penetrate and expand the market successfully”, explained Mr. Patrick Loh, Head of the Straumann Group’s Asia Pacific Region.
Orthodontics – in great demand
It is estimated that some 300 million Chinese patients visit dental clinics every year, a figure expected to grow at 13-15% in the foreseeable future2. Despite the lack of reimbursement, orthodontics are one of the most in-demand treatments, especially in urban and developed areas. Previously perceived as being for teenagers, they are increasingly popular among adults especially young professionals. Between 2006 and 2016, the percentage of adults with malocclusion and misaligned teeth who received orthodontic treatments rose from 10-20% to 30% and even 50% in more developed regions3.
Modern clear aligners have considerable advantages over conventional orthodontic treatments, and according to market intelligence and industry data, the clear aligner market is growing faster in China than anywhere else. In the next five years, it is expected to grow by more than 50%1. With ZhengLi Technology, Straumann plans to cater for both moderate and complex cases, which are particularly prevalent in China.
Straumann’s dynamic clear aligner business
The Group entered the clear aligner business in 2017 by acquiring ClearCorrect in the US. With international expansion as a key priority, it is launching ClearCorrect in Brazil and recently signed an agreement to supply one of the largest dental service organizations in Spain. Other countries will follow, pending regulatory approvals where applicable.
Apart from this, the Group has also partnered with Dental Monitoring to offer dentists and their patients a convenient smart-phone application for monitoring aligner treatment progress without visiting the practice. This service is expected to launch in China this year.
Reference:
1. Source:market intelligence and industry data
2. A golden age for China’s dental and oral care market 2017-2021; DCCChina.org, 2017
3. Source: Commercial Opportunities in the Dental Care Market in China; KPMG China, 2016
