Feb 20 2010
OrthoAccel Technologies, Inc., developers of the AcceleDent System, which is an acceleration device to enhance orthodontics, recently exhibited at the 7th International Orthodontic Congress (IOC) in Sydney, Australia, which is held by the World Federation of Orthodontists (WFO) every five years. The 8th IOC in 2015 will be hosted in London.
AcceleDent is a simple dental device that orthodontic patients wear in the mouth for 20 minutes daily to accelerate tooth movement. Michael Kaufman, VP Business Development & Marketing at OrthoAccel, commented, "The purpose of our visit to Australia was two-fold. We were able to introduce AcceleDent to the Australian market and visit with a number of local orthodontic specialists. At the same time, because of the international attendance, it provided an opportunity to learn more about other global markets that may be of interest in the future as we grow."
A Phase I clinical trial in 2008 in Houston, TX demonstrated device safety. Dr. Chung H. Kau, DDS, MScD, MBA, PhD, M Orth, FDS, FFD (Ortho), FAMS (Ortho), the principle investigator, was invited to Sydney as a speaker by the WFO. In discussing AcceleDent with his colleagues, he observed, "I was encouraged by how well tolerated the device was by patients – teenagers and adults alike."
Kaufman continued, "The conference exceeded our expectations; we presented and discussed AcceleDent with over 250 orthodontists from all over the world who visited our exhibit. Additionally, we validated a high level of interest in the Australian market and hope to begin shipping product to customers in the second quarter, with partnership with an experienced and well respected local distributor being the most likely channel." OrthoAccel was granted clearance by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration in late 2009. Plans are to make AcceleDent available on a limited basis to select Australian orthodontic specialists.
The first case in private practice was initiated in October 2009 in the UK, following EU approval. Dr. Gerry Bellman, who is currently treating that particular patient, was in Sydney for the IOC. "I continue to be impressed by the ease in which patients accept the appliance and the positive feedback from them when they use it. We are anticipating faster case finishing. Safely getting braces off sooner is important to both doctor and patient," remarked Dr. Bellman.
OrthoAccel is anticipating the conclusion of another US clinical trial at the UT Health Science Center in San Antonio with a target completion date later in 2010.
SOURCE OrthoAccel Technologies, Inc.
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