What technology underpins Invisalign's manufacturing process?

• A. Hand-drawn models
• B. 3D computerized sequence of casts
• C. 2D photography
• D. Traditional wire bending

Answer: (B)

The technology behind Invisalign is a digital, 3D CAD/CAM workflow that plans and fabricates the treatment entirely in three dimensions. Scans capture a precise 3D representation of the teeth and bite, and this digital model is used to architect a staged sequence of tooth movements. From that plan, a series of 3D casts or models is generated for each stage, guiding the production of each aligner. Clear plastic aligners are then thermoformed over these digital/printed models. This digital sequence of casts and the accompanying plan is what enables the customized, incremental movements, rather than relying on hand-drawn methods, flat 2D photography, or traditional wire bending used with braces.