Align Technology
This article was originally published in The Gray Sheet
Executive Summary
Maker of Invisalign clear, removable appliances for treatment of dental misalignment files preliminary prospectus with the Securities and Exchange Commission Nov. 14 for a proposed initial public offering of up to $200 mil. in common stock. The number of shares and price per share have not yet been determined. Proceeds would be used to expand manufacturing capacity, fund a national advertising campaign and other marketing activities, and continue product development. Invisalign is designed to compete with conventional metal or ceramic braces made by such firms as 3M Company, Sybron International and Dentsply International, and yet to be less burdensome to the wearer. The device gained 510(k) clearance from FDA in November 1998 and commenced commercial sales in July 1999. Each Invisalign appliance is worn over the teeth for two weeks before disposal of and replacement by the next appliance in a series. As of October, Align has trained over 5,300 orthodontists in Invisalign use, representing over 60% of U.S. and Canadian orthodontists. The Santa Clara, California firm generated sales of $3.2 mil. for the nine months ended Sept. 30 and a net loss of $53.3 mil. Underwriters include Deutsche Banc Alex Brown, Bear Stearns, J.P. Morgan and Robertson Stephens