Part of the Angel Aligner Select, Pro, and KiD systems, angelHook offers an integrated solution for growing patients, allowing orthodontists to manage skeletal Class III malocclusions and dental alignment concurrently without the need for traditional fixed appliances.

For orthodontists using clear aligners in early interceptive treatment, addressing maxillary deficiency with facemask therapy can require additional appliances to provide the anchorage needed for maxillary protraction. To address this clinical challenge, Angel Aligner has developed angelHook, a stable, aligner-integrated hook designed for growth-phase orthopedic Class III correction.

As a specialized component of the Angel Aligner KiD system—a comprehensive early treatment solution that combines dental alignment, jaw development, and functional therapy—angelHook reduces the complexity of multi-appliance workflows. Engineered to withstand 20 Newtons (2,000 grams) of force when used in conjunction with a facemask and elastics, the feature provides the stable anchorage necessary for effective maxillary protraction.

Speaking to Orthodontic Products, Jason Tabb, vice president and general manager of North America for Angel Aligner, explained the practical impact of the innovation: “It gives orthodontists the ability to address skeletal Class III malocclusions using protraction facemask in combination with clear aligners. This innovation solves the need to use multiple appliances. From a day-to-day workflow standpoint, it is designed to keep things simple and help with patient compliance.”

Key Features

  • Integrated aligner interface: Built directly into the aligner design to support facemask therapy without separate bonding or need of additional appliances.
  • High force tolerance: Engineered to withstand up to 20 Newtons (2,000 grams) of orthopedic force.
  • Adaptable protraction angles: Supports a variety of force levels and angles for individualized treatment planning.
  • Refined hook geometry: Features a smooth, comfort-focused design to minimize soft tissue irritation.
  • Full Angel KiD system integration: Works seamlessly alongside other Angel KiD early intervention features like angelButtons, eruption guides, and bite turbos.

Key Benefits

  • Simultaneous skeletal and dental alignment: Allows orthodontists to manage both skeletal and dental objectives together during critical growth phases.
  • Simplified clinical workflow: Eliminates the need for multiple traditional appliances, improving practice efficiency and reducing chair time.
  • Enhanced patient compliance: Delivers a more comfortable, streamlined treatment experience for younger patients.
  • Predictable force delivery: Maintains consistent elastic engagement under heavy orthopedic loads for reliable clinical outcomes.
  • Long-term stability: Helps establish a strong foundation for future oral health by addressing developmental issues early.

Clinical Application: Managing Skeletal Class III Malocclusions

In a typical early interceptive case involving a growing patient with a skeletal Class III malocclusion, orthodontists historically relied on traditional fixed appliances to anchor a protraction facemask. With angelHook, clinicians can attach elastics or extraoral orthopedic appliances directly to the clear aligner. As Paula Alvarado, DDS, head of clinical excellence at Angel Aligner, told Orthodontic Products, “When I saw the benefits of angelHook—using aligners in combination with a facemask, without the need for braces—I thought that was an amazing idea. According to the company, this approach has already been utilized in more than 2,000 cases, demonstrating its effectiveness for complex treatment of growing patients.

Mark Luden, DDS, MS, an orthodontist practicing in Ontario, Canada, has seen comparable results in his own practice. “The angelHook has allowed me to treat young patients with developing Class III malocclusions in a more efficient manner with improved comfort for them and fewer complications compared with previous methods,” he said.

Target Users and Clinical Integration

The angelHook and the broader Angel Aligner KiD system are designed for orthodontists managing mixed dentition cases in patients roughly ages 6 to 12. It is particularly valuable for practitioners seeking to expand their digital treatment capabilities into complex orthopedic corrections without overwhelming young patients or complicating the practice’s daily workflow. Treatment coordinators also benefit from the system’s streamlined, aligner-based approach when presenting case plans to parents.

Support and Continuing Education

While angelHook addresses a specific clinical need in early interceptive treatment, it is backed by Angel Aligner’s broader global footprint.

For more than 23 years, the company has been at the forefront of clear aligner innovation, treating over 2 million smiles worldwide and developing solutions including angelButton, A6 Mandibular Advancement, and angelHook. The company also provides expert-led orthodontic training and educational events designed for the entire orthodontic team. These programs, which include webinars, special events, and peer-reviewed case studies, are designed to help clinicians master advanced aligner techniques and integrate protocols for complex cases. Orthodontists can access these clinical resources and training schedules through the Angel Aligner Education platform.

To further support North American providers, Angel Aligner is expanding its 52,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to streamline supply chain logistics and reduce turnaround times.

Availability and Contact

The angelHook feature is available now as part of the Angel Aligner KiD system; orthodontists can learn more and schedule a demo by visiting angelaligner.com/innovation-features-angelhook/.

Photo: Angelalign Technology

References

  1. Angel Aligner. angelHook. Accessed August 27, 2026. https://www.angelaligner.com/en-us/innovation-features-angelhook/
  2. Angel Aligner. Angel Aligner KiD. Accessed August 27, 2026. https://www.angelaligner.com/en-us/our-portfolio-angel-aligner-kid/
  3. Werner A. Angel Aligner leverages 23 years of global data as it expands its U.S. footprint. Orthodontic Products. May 20, 2026. Accessed August 27, 2026. https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/treatment-products/aligners/angel-aligner-expands-us-market-with-clinical-features/
  4. Werner A. The new Phase I: how aligners are redefining early orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic Products. February 4, 2026. Accessed August 27, 2026. https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/clinical-tips/aligner-treatment/the-new-phase-i-how-aligners-are-redefining-early-orthodontic-treatment/