Overview

SoftSmile is a specialized healthcare technology platform designed to transform the clear aligner manufacturing workflow for orthodontic clinics and digital labs. The core cloud-native application, VISION, utilizes patented machine learning algorithms and biomechanical simulations to automate tooth segmentation, staging, and collision detection. By converting standard intraoral scans into high-fidelity 3D structural dental tracks, it slashes hours of manual digital setup down to a few minutes. The solution removes traditional reliance on high-margin third-party aligner manufacturers, allowing practices to comfortably orchestrate independent in-office 3D printing grids.

Founder story

SoftSmile was founded in late 2019 by Khamzat Asabaev in New York City, New York, United States. Moving away from a corporate law career advising massive international entities, Asabaev was inspired by a fellow orthodontist who was independently printing low-cost clear aligners. Recognizing that monopolized middleman distribution networks kept clear aligner therapy unaffordable for millions, they spent years with mathematicians and computer programmers perfecting advanced visual algorithms. The company achieved massive clinical validation when its core engine, VISION, received comprehensive FDA clearance in December 2021.

What it does

• Orthodontists
• Dental Technicians
• Orthodontic Lab Managers
• Dental Practice Owners
• Biomechanical Engineers

Who it's for

• Independent Orthodontic Practices
• Digital Dental and Orthodontic Labs
• Clear Aligner Manufacturing Corporations
• Multi-Site Dental Support Organizations (DSOs)

Why it works

• Patented TrueView machine learning algorithms deliver precise anatomical crown and root segmentation
• Automated CBCT and intraoral scan processing reduces case design time from hours to under two minutes
• Advanced dynamic collision detection and physics-based forces application ensure highly predictable staging outcomes
• Browser-accessible Vision Viewer application speeds up remote practitioner review pipelines and patient communication loops
• Flexible STL and OBJ open file structure enables frictionless integration directly with standard lab 3D printers

Growth strategies

• Targeting high- volume commercial orthodontic labs and production hubs to anchor enterprise license volume
• Securing regulatory milestones including multi- year FDA 510(k) clearances to establish industry clinical authority
• Expanding application reach through native software integrations with widely deployed intraoral scanner networks like Medit Link
• Leveraging institutional acceleration networks such as Hub71 to scale operational footprints across global regions

Alternatives

• 3Shape Ortho System
• uLab Systems uDesign
• OnyxCeph3D
• Archform
• Blue Sky Plan

Comparison overview

• SoftSmile delivers complete, highly automated AI-driven visual segmentation routines where legacy desktop engines demand heavy frame clicking
• Emphasizes open-source STL production neutrality over proprietary locked alignment platforms constructed by consumer manufacturers
• Features advanced biomechanical force modeling layers natively instead of simple geometrical tooth morphing algorithms