The European Commission has opened an antitrust investigation against the producer of Invisalign dental aligners over allegations that the company has exploited its position as a market leader.
The probe is to focus on whether US medical device company Align Technology has obliged dental professionals to buy a certain scanner to be able to order Invisalign braces for their patients, the commission said on Tuesday.
Align Technology is considered a market leader for removable clear plastic aligners in Europe, after the company's Invisalign aligners were protected by a patent until 2017.
The company also produces intra-oral scanners used by dentists to generate scans of teeth and jaws, marketed under the name iTero.
Align Technology is alleged to have refused to accept scans generated by competing scanners to order Invisalign braces.
"If proven, the practices under investigation may breach EU competition rules that prohibit the abuse of a dominant position," the commission said.
"Clear aligners have transformed orthodontic care for millions of Europeans, offering a discreet and innovative solution for patients of all ages," said EU competition watchdog Teresa Ribera.
"The commission's investigation opened today underscores our commitment to preserve fair markets that work for everyone, including in healthcare," said the European Commission vice-president.
Launching a probe, however, does not prejudge its outcome, the commission said.
