Actival active aligners set to revolutionize orthodontics

Unlike traditional aligners, which often cause oral hygiene problems such as bacteria build-up, bad breath (halitosis) or cavities, Actival incorporates CSEM's patented 3D-printed microchannel technology. These channels enable saliva to circulate better around the teeth, promoting optimal hygiene. They also release an antibacterial and fluorinated liquid, protecting enamel and keeping breath fresh.

“Microchannels ensure continuous saliva flow, unlike conventional aligners. This circulation is essential to prevent the side effects of conventional aligners, such as plaque and cavities,” explains Nikola Kalentics, engineer at CSEM and CEO and founder of Actival.

The global market for transparent dental aligners, estimated at US$6.3 billion by 2022, is growing rapidly at 30.7%. This represents a potential of US$46 billion by 2030. Actival plans to penetrate this market with its “Active Aligners”, better adapted to patients' oral health. Says Kalentics: “Our technology offers considerable added value over existing aligners, combining comfort, aesthetics and oral health protection. Our approach is not B2C (business to customer), but exclusively B2B (business to business). Dental clinics will prefer our product because it is more complete and therefore more effective”. With its technology protected by international patents, Actival is perfectly positioned to conquer an increasingly competitive orthodontic market. Clinical trials are already underway, and initial in vitro results are promising. “We are now awaiting the necessary authorizations to launch patient trials. Production of the 'Active Aligners' will take place in Switzerland, with a commercial launch planned for late 2025 in Switzerland and the USA, followed by Europe in 2026 and Asia in 2027,” adds Kalentics' young CEO.

Brought to life by CSEM's ACCELERATE program 

Actival's “Active Aligners” project was made possible thanks to the support of CSEM's ACCELERATE program, headed by Bahaa Roustom, and more specifically its Innogrant module. This module, dedicated to internal collaboration, aims to transform innovative ideas into viable technological projects. Thanks to this support, Actival benefits from the expertise of a group of CSEM engineers who work on development projects alongside Kalentics to perfect all aspects of the technology, from microchannel design to mass production.

Interestingly, the result that prompted Actival to move from project to start-up status was the successful development of its patented biocompatible resin microchannel technology. The use of their extensive know-how enabled the startup to successfully optimize the manufacturing process and achieve the ambitious goals it had set itself.

Getting ready for market entry

Looking to the future, Nikola Kalentics, Actival's CEO, tells Startupticker.ch: “ Over the next six months, we'll be concentrating on in vivo testing. At the same time, the company is working to expand its production capabilities and forge partnerships with dental clinics, as Actival plans to penetrate the market via a B2B (business-to-business) model rather than selling directly to consumers. The company is also likely to seek additional funding to support the expansion of its technology and market entry.”

Actival has already developed a working prototype, patented its 3D microchannel solution, and in vitro testing is nearing completion. The company is based in Neuchâtel, Switzerland, and operates with a team of 4 FTEs, working at CSEM to refine and scale up its technology.

(ES)