Angelalign invests in LuxCreo: Collaboration for directly 3D-printed aligners

LuxCreo is receiving a strategic investment from Angelalign Technology and simultaneously announcing a global development partnership for materials used in aligner therapy. The core of the initiative is the clinical establishment of directly 3D-printed aligners as an alternative to the previously common thermoforming over printed models. To this end, both companies aim to integrate materials and workflows along the digital process chain—from treatment planning to manufacturing.

“Together, we aim to establish a more efficient and precise digital orthodontic paradigm that benefits patients globally through innovation.” – Dr. Mike Yang, Co-founder and CEO of LuxCreo

Technically, material development is at the forefront. LuxCreo contributes its ActiveMemory material class, which, as “smart materials,” is intended to deliver defined, constant forces over the course of treatment. Direct 3D printing also enables local parameterization of part properties: variable wall thicknesses, zonal elasticity, and targeted microstructures can be defined in CAD and reproducibly implemented with resin-based processes. In practice, this aims at higher fit accuracy, more controlled force profiles, and, where possible, a reduction of additional attachments. In parallel, the collaboration addresses requirements for biocompatibility, aging resistance, and cleanability, which are important for Class II medical devices.

The investment is intended to fund research into new photopolymers and process windows, as well as the further development of data-driven platforms for case planning and quality control. Both partners emphasize building robust evidence from large-scale clinical datasets to clearly define indications and limitations of directly printed aligners. Angelalign contributes clinical experience and market access, while LuxCreo brings automation and printing expertise.

Dr. Mike Yang, Co-founder and CEO of LuxCreo, added: “We are thrilled to partner with an industry leader like Angelalign Technology. Their deep clinical experience and extensive industry resources will amplify LuxCreo’s strengths in material innovation, automated production, and AI-driven digital dental platforms. Together, we aim to establish a more efficient and precise digital orthodontic paradigm that benefits patients globally through innovation.”