Aug 25, 2021

Smilink offers an online platform that facilitates integration between patients and dentists, and has developed "invisible" aligners Photo: Courtesy Smilink’s main tool is data intelligence and process standardization. Swiss dental solutions group Straumann has bought Brazilian startup Smilink for an undisclosed amount. Smilink offers an online platform that facilitates integration between patients and dentists and has developed transparent aligners. A business model similar to that of Mexican startup Moons , which recently raised $9 million. Straumann Group points out that the organic growth of the sector in Latin America was 75% in 2020, an index above the other regions in which the group operates – and led by Brazil . The acquisition of Smilink is pointed out by the company as an agent for strengthening the orthodontic business in the country. Today Smilink has several partner clinics in 14 Brazilian cities, more than 80 employees, and a history of more than 4,000 patients treated since its foundation in 2018. “We estimate that between 70% and 80% of the adult population has oral health issues. In this scenario, our solution gains relevance for being efficient, affordable, and highly technological. The arrival of Straumann Group will allow us to gain market share and expand our coverage,” said Smilink CEO and co-founder Marcos Boysen, in a press release. “Our business strategy and performance is based on the experience and great results that Straumann Group had with the acquisition of Dr. Smile in Europe, a company with operations similar to Smilink,” said Matthias Schupp, Executive Vice President Latam of Straumann Group. The startup ‘s main tool is data intelligence and process standardization. Under the company’s model, patients undergo a clinical assessment and 3D digital scanning with a dentist and then receive a full treatment plan, designed by orthodontists, which includes the expected outcome and treatment time. “At this point, patients can choose to carry out their treatment or not, and currently 99% of them decide to continue. It’s a process that makes all the steps clearer and more accessible – and that we were able to do in less than 14 days, end-to-end,” explains Smilink’s COO and co-founder, Pablo Inones. Keywords