OrthoFX™ Unveils Revolutionary FXIntegrated Buttons for Clear Aligners
OrthoFX™, recognized as a pioneer in clear aligner technology, recently made waves in the orthodontic industry with its latest innovation—the FXIntegrated Buttons™. This groundbreaking feature is set to transform the way orthodontic treatments are conducted. Unlike traditional bonded buttons or previous 'integrated' versions, the FXIntegrated Buttons are created as a single, seamless entity directly from the aligner's own material. This advancement eliminates the need for adhesives, ultrasonic welding, and the physical cuts typically required for button attachment.
The FXIntegrated Buttons will make their debut at the 2026 American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) Annual Session in Orlando, Florida, symbolizing a major leap forward in improving treatment efficiency in clear aligners. By significantly reducing the time spent in the dental chair and enhancing the overall robustness of the aligner, patients can expect a far more comfortable orthodontic journey.
The traditional methods of using bonded buttons are not only time-consuming but also fraught with complications. Generally, these solutions involve attaching composite or metal buttons to the teeth, necessitating cutouts in the aligners that may jeopardize their structural integrity. Additionally, such bonded designs often lead to risks of button detachment under elastic forces. In stark contrast, OrthoFX's FXIntegrated Buttons create a fully unified component within the aligner, thereby resolving the frequent usability issues associated with separate button applications.
Rick Matty, the COO and President of OrthoFX, emphasized the company's mission: "At OrthoFX, we strive for constant innovation to alleviate the challenges that clinicians face with aligner therapy. With our FXIntegrated Buttons, we provide a durable, cohesive solution that eliminates bonding steps and minimizes unexpected visits. Patients will appreciate the added comfort that comes from this design innovation."
Advantages of FXIntegrated Buttons
1. Reduced Chair Time: The elimination of in-office bonding and debonding drastically cuts down on emergency visits caused by button failures. This streamlining leads to an overall more efficient treatment process.
2. Versatile Elastic Placement: Orthodontists can employ complex elastic vectors across various surfaces—including labial, lingual, and interproximal—without disrupting the alignment of ideal tooth attachments.
3. Exceptional Durability: The FXIntegrated Buttons, as an integral part of the aligner, drastically decrease the chances of breakage or deformation. Specifically, they are engineered to withstand forces that are nearly 20 times greater than most typical elastics, thereby providing unmatched reliability during treatment.
4. Improved Patient Comfort: The smooth and seamless construction of the FXIntegrated Buttons means no additional bulk or sharp edges are introduced, leading to a more pleasant experience overall. Consequently, patients have reported heightened satisfaction with their aligner experience.
Dr. Neil Warshawsky, an Orthodontist at the UIC Craniofacial Center, expressed his excitement about the new buttons: "My patients are thrilled with the switch from traditional bonded buttons to FXIntegrated Buttons. They report a higher level of comfort, and I've noticed a reduction in the number of emergency visits—this has truly enhanced both clinical efficiency and the patient experience."
The FXIntegrated Buttons will be part of OrthoFX’s full line of aligners, which include the renowned FXClear™, known for its stain-resistant materials, and FXBright™, designed to naturally enhance teeth appearance without the use of whitening products. These products reflect OrthoFX’s commitment to reimagining aligner technologies and services.
For orthodontists interested in incorporating these innovative buttons into their practice, the FXIntegrated Buttons will be available in early summer 2026. To discover more about their offerings, you can visit their website or connect on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn. The future of orthodontic treatment is not just more efficient but also more patient-friendly, thanks to these technological advancements from OrthoFX™.