Straumann invests in RODO Medical

Straumann, a global leader in replacement, restorative and regenerative dentistry and RODO Medical, Inc., a privately-held company developing innovative devices in dental implant restorations, have signed an agreement under which Straumann has acquired approximately 12% of RODO Medical's shares for an undisclosed sum.

The innovative Smileloc™ System

At the heart of the RODO Medical's Smileloc System is a retention mechanism utilizing shape memory properties of 'nitinol', a nickel-titanium alloy, which has been safely used for decades in stents and other medical devices, including orthodontic archwire and edotontic files. With Smileloc™, the crown or denture (prosthesis), can simply be fixed to the implant abutment without the need for cement or retaining screws. The Smileloc™ System eliminates disadvantages associated with cement and screws, and significantly simplifies the existing implant restoration process by allowing quick and easy removal of the prosthesis. This in turn can dramatically cut procedure time and cost without sacrificing esthetics.

Straumann's CEO Marco Gadola commented: "Smileloc is an innovative concept designed to address a significant need. The first clinical results are promising and I agree with the developers that, when it becomes commercially available, it might substitute some of the current fixture technology. RODO Medical's entrepreneurial and scientific approach to innovation makes them an attractive partner for Straumann and we are excited about working together with them to change paradigms in dentistry".

RODO Medical's CEO Young Seo commented: "We are very excited about Straumann's investment in the company. Straumann is the global market leader in the dental implant industry and highly respected for its reliable products and responsible innovations".

About RODO Medical

RODO Medical is an innovative medical device company dedicated to improving the quality of life of patients and dentists. The company was founded in 2009 and is located in Sunnyvale, California. RODO Medical has developed novel retention devices in implant dentistry. The Smileloc™ System is used in permanent fixed restorations with dental implants and the Smileclip™ System is used in removable dentures with dental implants. The Smileloc™ System is not yet cleared by the FDA for marketing in the US, but has marketing clearance in Europe (CE Mark).

About Straumann

Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, Straumann (SIX: STMN) is a global leader in implant, restorative and regenerative dentistry. In collaboration with leading clinics, research institutes and universities, Straumann researches, develops and manufactures dental implants, instruments, prosthetics and tissue regeneration products for use in tooth replacement and restoration solutions or to prevent tooth loss. Straumann currently employs approximately 2200 people worldwide and its products and services are available in more than 70 countries through its broad network of distribution subsidiaries and partners.