A distribution agreement for Align’s iTero Element intraoral scanning system has been signed between Patterson Dental, a business unit of Patterson Companies, and Align Technology.

This agreement expands Patterson’s portfolio of CAD/CAM products with iTero scanner’s proven digital technology and superior Invisalign experience and tools.

The iTero scanner enables dentists to scan in as little as 60 seconds, visualize changes in dentition, and perform restorative and orthodontic workflows that enhance their patient care and help them grow their practice.

“Align Technology’s overall strategy and broad portfolio of products complement our commitment to innovation and providing a best-in-class customer experience,” said Dave Misiak, President, Patterson Dental North America.

“This agreement will help us better serve the unique needs of our customers and leverage our 20-year history of supporting CAD/CAM through the Patterson Technology Center.”

“We’re pleased to work with Patterson and gain access to their sales force and general dentist customers who are looking to grow their business through practice digitization,” said Raphael Pascaud, Chief Marketing Officer, and VP iTero for Align Technology.

“Together, through combined digital technology and support offerings from the iTero and Patterson teams, we will help dentists transition to full digital workflows and enable them to respond more effectively to changing market demand. Only the iTero Element has the breadth of applications and tools, including Invisalign® treatment and TimeLapse technology, which enables a wide range of visualization, restorative and orthodontic solutions. With proven precision, best in class laboratory and restorative workflows, and over two million scans submitted, the iTero Element intraoral scanning system is the digital gateway to diagnostics and preventative care.”

The iTero scanner will be available to dental customers through Patterson Dental in the U.S. and Canada beginning in September 2017. The distribution agreement is non-exclusive. Additional details of the agreement are confidential.