SANTA CLARA, Calif., Dec 2, 2009 (GlobeNewswire via COMTEX News Network) -- Align Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq:ALGN) today announced the first university-centric research award program to further the development of clear aligners for the treatment of malocclusion, or misalignment of teeth. The new Align-sponsored Clear Aligner Research Award Program is designed to promote both clinical and scientific research in clear aligner therapy. Eligible applicants include full-time university faculty involved in orthodontic scientific research, as well as non-orthodontic scientists whose work may contribute towards the improvement of clear aligner therapy.

"Breakthroughs in orthodontic treatment with clear aligners over the past decade have enabled aligners to be used for a wider range of patients, including younger patients and those with more severe malocclusion," said Align's Vice President of Clinical Technology, Eric Kuo, DDS, MS. "Through this program, we hope to facilitate greater understanding and advancement of the scientific processes behind clear aligner therapy."

As part of its commitment to continued innovation and the advancement of clear aligner orthodontic therapy, Align will invest up to $100,000 per year for scientific research. Under the program, two funding options will be available to qualified orthodontic faculty:

 1. One-year funding option - up to $25,000 per year
 2. Two-year funding option - up to $50,000 (maximum of $25,000 per
    year)

Applications for funding can be downloaded from http://www.aligntechinstitute.com/ResearchAwards. Completed applications must be e-mailed to ResearchAwards@aligntech.com by 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time on March 15, 2010. Applicants will be notified of funding decisions by April 30, 2010. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

For more information on the Clear Aligner Research Award Program and application process, please visit http://www.aligntechinstitute.com/ResearchAwards or email ResearchAwards@aligntech.com.

About Align Technology, Inc.

Align Technology designs, manufactures and markets Invisalign, a proprietary method for treating malocclusion, or the misalignment of teeth. Invisalign corrects malocclusion using a series of clear, nearly invisible, removable appliances that gently move teeth to a desired final position. Because it does not rely on the use of metal or ceramic brackets and wires, Invisalign significantly reduces the aesthetic and other limitations associated with braces. Invisalign is appropriate for treating adults and teens. Align Technology was founded in March 1997 and received FDA clearance to market Invisalign in 1998. Today, the Invisalign product family includes Invisalign, Invisalign Teen, Invisalign Assist, Invisalign Express, and Vivera Retainers.

To learn more about Invisalign or to find a certified Invisalign doctor in your area, please visit www.invisalign.com or call 1-800-INVISIBLE.

This news release was distributed by GlobeNewswire, www.globenewswire.com

SOURCE: Align Technology

CONTACT:  Align Technology, Inc.
Investor Relations Contact
Shirley Stacy
(408) 470-1150
sstacy@aligntech.com
Ethos Communication, Inc.
Press Contact
Shannon Mangum Henderson
(678) 261-7803
align@ethoscommunication.com

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