DUSSELDORF, Germany, May 4 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Align Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: ALGN), the inventor of Invisalign®, a proprietary method of straightening teeth without wires and brackets, announced today that the prestigious German orthodontic scientific society DGKFO has issued a new statement regarding Invisalign's applicability and clinical viability.

The new statement from the DGKFO replaces the society's more conservative 2001 position on Invisalign, and takes into account Invisalign's worldwide clinical success and the results of multiple clinical studies. The DGKFO's statement presents a balanced view of Invisalign by reviewing both the limitations and key benefits of treatment, and acknowledges that the appliance is a tool best used by experienced orthodontists.

Invisalign was introduced in Germany in early 2001. Invisalign combines 3- D, virtual treatment planning software with a series of clear, removable dental appliances called Aligners. Aligners move the patient's teeth incrementally and correspond to stages of tooth movement prescribed in the orthodontist's treatment plan.

"Clinical review and support from the scientific community is critical to Invisalign's continued success and growth in Europe," said Thomas M. Prescott, President and CEO of Align Technology. "The DGKFO's new statement is important validation of Invisalign's clinical viability and applicability."

The full statement from the DGKFO is available on the society's Web site at www.dgkfo.de.

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 older teens. Align Technology was founded in March 1997 and received FDA clearance to market Invisalign in 1998.

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.

Press Contact:
Shannon Henderson
Ethos Communications, Inc.
(678) 417-1767
shannon@ethoscommunication.com

SOURCE Align Technology, Inc. CONTACT: Shannon Henderson of Ethos Communications, Inc., +1-678-417-1767 or shannon@ethoscommunication.com, for Align Technology, Inc.