Align Technology (ALGN) 10-Q 30 Oct 14 2014 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Oct. 24, 2014
Document Information [Line Items]	'	'
Trading Symbol	'ALGN	'
Entity Registrant Name	'ALIGN TECHNOLOGY INC	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0001097149	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31	'
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer	'
Document Type	'10-Q	'
Document Period End Date	30-Sep-14	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2014	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q3	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	80,289,814

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (USD $)	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014		Sep. 30, 2013		Sep. 30, 2014		Sep. 30, 2013
Income Statement [Abstract]	'		'		'		'
Net revenues	$189,876	[1]	$164,506	[1]	$563,053	[1]	$481,914	[1]
Cost of net revenues	44,822		39,416		135,272		120,284
Gross profit	145,054		125,090		427,781		361,630
Operating expenses:	'		'		'		'
Sales and marketing	52,368		45,224		161,642		135,352
General and administrative	28,285		27,487		84,533		84,862
Research and development	12,854		10,915		39,523		33,113
Impairment of goodwill	0		0		0		40,693
Impairment of long-lived assets	0		0		0		26,320
Total operating expenses	93,507		83,626		285,698		320,340
Income from operations	51,547		41,464		142,083		41,290
Interest and other income (expenses), net	-1,999		449		-1,491		-874
Net income before provision for income taxes	49,548		41,913		140,592		40,416
Provision for income taxes	11,301		7,376		34,301		18,542
Net income	$38,247		$34,537		$106,291		$21,874
Net income per share:	'		'		'		'
Basic (in usd per share)	$0.47		$0.43		$1.31		$0.27
Diluted (in usd per share)	$0.47		$0.42		$1.29		$0.26
Shares used in computing net income per share:	'		'		'		'
Basic (in shares)	80,629		79,967		80,924		80,592
Diluted (in shares)	82,014		81,848		82,443		82,549
[1]	Net revenues are attributed to countries based on location of where revenue is recognized.

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME1

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net income	$38,247	$34,537	$106,291	$21,874
Net change in cumulative translation adjustment	-257	171	-155	109
Change in unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, net of tax	-191	203	-81	20
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-448	374	-236	129
Comprehensive income	$37,799	$34,911	$106,055	$22,003

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$180,676	$242,953
Marketable securities, short-term	244,820	127,040
Accounts receivable, net of allowances for doubtful accounts and returns of $1,813 and $1,733, respectively	130,047	113,250
Inventories	15,983	13,968
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	44,146	47,465
Total current assets	615,672	544,676
Marketable securities, long-term	136,017	101,978
Property, plant and equipment, net	86,447	75,743
Goodwill and intangible assets, net	82,926	85,362
Deferred tax assets	19,714	15,766
Other assets	7,513	8,622
Total assets	948,289	832,147
Current liabilities:	'	'
Accounts payable	24,517	17,718
Accrued liabilities	86,600	80,345
Deferred revenues	87,443	77,275
Total current liabilities	198,560	175,338
Other long-term liabilities	27,273	22,839
Total liabilities	225,833	198,177
Commitments and contingencies (Note 8)	'	'
Stockholders' equity:	'	'
Preferred stock, $0.0001 par value (5,000 shares authorized; none issued)	0	0
Common stock, $0.0001 par value (200,000 shares authorized; 80,516 and 80,583 issued and outstanding, respectively)	8	8
Additional paid-in capital	775,523	729,578
Accumulated other comprehensive income	60	294
Accumulated deficit	-53,135	-95,910
Total stockholders’ equity	722,456	633,970
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$948,289	$832,147

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE1

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified
Accounts receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts and returns	$1,813	$1,733
Preferred stock, par value (in usd per share)	$0.00	$0.00
Preferred stock, shares authorized	5,000	5,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Common stock, par value (in usd per share)	$0.00	$0.00
Common stock, shares authorized	200,000	200,000
Common stock, shares issued	80,516	80,583
Common stock, shares outstanding	80,516	80,583

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME2

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:	'	'
Net income	$106,291	$21,874
Adjustments to reconcile net profit to net cash provided by operating activities:	'	'
Deferred taxes	20,870	14,501
Depreciation and amortization	13,469	12,647
Stock-based compensation	29,348	21,265
Excess tax benefit from share-based payment arrangements	-18,887	-21,849
Impairment of goodwill	0	40,693
Impairment of long-lived assets	0	26,320
Other non-cash operating activities	7,368	1,200
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquired assets and liabilities:	'	'
Accounts receivable	-24,930	-5,936
Inventories	-2,033	467
Prepaid expenses and other assets	-2,349	256
Accounts payable	3,788	-318
Accrued and other long-term liabilities	12,402	-671
Deferred revenues	9,957	8,415
Net cash provided by operating activities	155,294	118,864
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:	'	'
Acquisition, net of cash acquired	0	-7,652
Purchase of property, plant and equipment	-16,957	-15,172
Purchase of marketable securities	-350,611	-213,990
Proceeds from maturities of marketable securities	124,101	32,229
Proceeds from sales of marketable securities	72,276	6,943
Other investing activities	-182	-2,347
Net cash used in investing activities	-171,373	-199,989
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:	'	'
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	17,373	28,291
Common stock repurchases	-77,417	-95,105
Excess tax benefit from share-based payment arrangements	18,887	21,849
Employees’ taxes paid upon the vesting of restricted stock units	-5,761	-3,931
Other financing activities	0	-6
Net cash used in financing activities	-46,918	-48,902
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	720	-520
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents	-62,277	-130,547
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of the period	242,953	306,386
Cash and cash equivalents, end of the period	$180,676	$175,839

Summary_of_Significant_Account

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	'
	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	Basis of presentation
	The accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared by Align Technology, Inc. (“we”, “our”, or “Align”) in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and contain all adjustments, including normal recurring adjustments, necessary to present fairly our results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, our comprehensive income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, our financial position as of September 30, 2014 and our cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013. The Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2013 was derived from the December 31, 2013 audited financial statements. Net revenues by geographic area for prior period amounts in Note 13 have been reclassified to conform with the current period presentation. These reclassifications had no impact on our financial position for the three or nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013.
	The results of operations for the three months ended September 30, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2014 or any other future period, and we make no representations related thereto. The information included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” and the Consolidated Financial Statements and notes thereto included in Items 7, 7A and 8, respectively, in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013.
	Use of estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") in the United States of America (“U.S.”) requires our management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates, including those related to the fair values of financial instruments, long-lived assets and goodwill, useful lives of intangible assets and property and equipment, stock-based compensation, income taxes, and contingent liabilities, among others. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities.
	Recent Accounting Pronouncements
	In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers,” requiring an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers. The updated standard will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in U.S. GAAP when it becomes effective and permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. Early adoption is not permitted. The updated standard becomes effective for us in the first quarter of fiscal 2017. We have not yet selected a transition method and we are currently evaluating the effect that the updated standard will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

Marketable_Securities_and_Fair

Marketable Securities and Fair Value Measurements	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Marketable Securities and Fair Value Measurements	'
	Note 2. Marketable Securities and Fair Value Measurements
	As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the estimated fair value of our short-term and long-term marketable securities, classified as available for sale, are as follows (in thousands):
	Short-term
	September 30, 2014	Amortized		Gross		Gross			Fair Value
		Cost		Unrealized		Unrealized
				Gains		Losses
	Commercial paper	$	44,840	$	—	$	—		$	44,840
	Corporate bonds	117,981		45		(50		)	117,976
	U.S. government agency bonds	47,560		31		(2		)	47,589
	U.S. dollar dominated foreign corporate bonds	911		2		—			913
	Municipal securities	13,567		18		—			13,585
	U.S. government treasury bonds	18,496		24		—			18,520
	Certificates of deposit	1,397		—		—			1,397
	Total Marketable Securities, Short-Term	$	244,752	$	120	$	(52	)	$	244,820
	Long-term
	September 30, 2014	Amortized		Gross		Gross			Fair Value
		Cost		Unrealized		Unrealized
				Gains		Losses
	U.S. government agency bonds	$	28,887	$	7	$	(6	)	$	28,888
	Corporate bonds	73,494		13		(104		)	73,403
	Municipal securities	10,007		4		(6		)	10,005
	U.S. government treasury bonds	11,298		1		(4		)	11,295
	Asset-backed securities	12,439		—		(13		)	12,426
	Total Marketable Securities, Long-Term	$	136,125	$	25	$	(133	)	$	136,017
	Short-term
	December 31, 2013	Amortized		Gross		Gross			Fair Value
		Cost		Unrealized		Unrealized
				Gains		Losses
	Commercial paper	$	54,318	$	10	$	—		$	54,328
	Corporate bonds	29,079		10		(4		)	29,085
	U.S. government agency bonds	16,693		10		—			16,703
	U.S. dollar dominated foreign corporate bonds	13,959		12		—			13,971
	Municipal securities	7,006		11		(3		)	7,014
	Asset-backed securities	5,937		2		—			5,939
	Total Marketable Securities, Short-Term	$	126,992	$	55	$	(7	)	$	127,040
	Long-term
	31-Dec-13	Amortized		Gross		Gross			Fair Value
		Cost		Unrealized		Unrealized
				Gains		Losses
	U.S. government agency bonds	$	38,138	$	1	$	(21	)	$	38,118
	Corporate bonds	23,308		14		(9		)	23,313
	U.S. dollar dominated foreign corporate bonds	19,485		27		(17		)	19,495
	Municipal securities	8,326		13		(8		)	8,331
	U.S. government treasury bonds	6,916		3		—			6,919
	Asset-backed securities	5,800		4		(2		)	5,802
	Total Marketable Securities, Long-Term	$	101,973	$	62	$	(57	)	$	101,978
	For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, realized gains were immaterial. Unrealized gains and losses for our available for sale securities as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 were also immaterial. Cash and cash equivalents are not included in the table above as the gross unrealized gains and losses are not material. We have no material short-term or long-term investments that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for greater than twelve months as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013. Amounts reclassified to earnings from accumulated other comprehensive income related to unrealized gain or losses were immaterial for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013.
	Our fixed-income securities investment portfolio consists of corporate bonds, U.S. dollar dominated foreign corporate bonds, commercial paper, municipal securities, U.S. government agency bonds, U.S. government treasury bonds, certificates of deposit and asset-backed securities that have a maximum maturity of 27 months. The securities that we invest in are generally deemed to be low risk based on their credit ratings from the major rating agencies. The longer the duration of these securities, the more susceptible they are to changes in market interest rates and bond yields. As interest rates increase, those securities purchased at a lower yield show a mark-to-market unrealized loss. The unrealized losses are due primarily to changes in credit spreads and interest rates. We expect to realize the full value of all these investments upon maturity or sale. The weighted average remaining duration of these securities was approximately 11 months as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.
	As the carrying value approximates the fair value for our short-term and long-term marketable securities shown in the tables above, the following table summarizes the fair value of our short-term and long-term marketable securities classified by maturity as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 (in thousands):
		September 30,		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Due in one year or less	$	244,820	$	127,040
	Due in greater than one year	136,017		101,978
	Total available for sale short-term and long-term marketable securities	$	380,837	$	229,018
	Fair Value Measurements
	We measure the fair value of our cash equivalents and marketable securities as the price that would be received from selling an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. We use the GAAP fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. This hierarchy requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. The three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:
	Level 1 — Quoted (unadjusted) prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
	Our Level 1 assets consist of money market funds and U.S. government treasury bonds. We did not hold any Level 1 liabilities as of September 30, 2014 or December 31, 2013.
	Level 2 — Observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the asset or liability.
	Our Level 2 assets consist of commercial paper, corporate bonds, U.S. government agency bonds, asset-backed securities, municipal securities, U.S. dollar dominated foreign corporate bonds, certificates of deposit and our Israeli funds that are mainly invested in insurance policies. We obtain fair values for Level 2 investments from our asset manager for each of our portfolios. Our custody bank and asset managers independently use professional pricing services to gather pricing data which may include quoted market prices for identical or comparable financial instruments, or inputs other than quoted prices that are observable either directly or indirectly, and we are ultimately responsible for these underlying estimates.
	We did not hold any Level 2 liabilities as of September 30, 2014 or December 31, 2013.
	Level 3 — Unobservable inputs to the valuation methodology that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the measurement of the fair value of the assets or liabilities. Level 3 assets and liabilities include those whose fair value measurements are determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies or similar valuation techniques, as well as significant management judgment or estimation.
	We did not hold any Level 3 assets or liabilities as of September 30, 2014 or December 31, 2013.
Non-Recurring Fair Value Measurements
During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we recorded an impairment charge to our long-lived assets and goodwill of $26.3 million and $40.7 million, respectively, related to our Scanner and Services ("Scanner") reporting unit, formerly referred to as Scanner and CAD/CAM Services ("SCCS"), as an event occurred and circumstances changed that led us to perform an impairment analysis prior to our annual test which required us to determine the fair value of the Scanner reporting unit (Refer to Note 5). These fair value measurements were calculated using unobservable inputs, using the income approach which is classified as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy. Inputs for the income approach includes the amount and timing of future cash flows based on our most recent operational budgets, strategic plans, terminal growth rates assumptions and other estimates.
Recurring Fair Value Measurements
The following tables summarize our financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 (in thousands):
Description	Balance as of		Quoted Prices in		Significant Other
	30-Sep-14		Active  Markets for		Observable  Inputs
			Identical Assets		(Level 2)
			(Level 1)
Cash equivalents:
Money market funds	$	74,985	$	74,985	$	—
Commercial paper	27,493		—		27,493
Short-term investments:
Commercial paper	44,840		—		44,840
Corporate bonds	117,976		—		117,976
U.S. government agency bonds	47,589		—		47,589
Municipal securities	13,585		—		13,585
U.S. dollar dominated foreign corporate bonds	913		—		913
U.S. government treasury bonds	18,520		18,520		—
Certificates of deposit	1,397		—		1,397
Long-term investments:
Corporate bonds	73,403		—		73,403
U.S. government agency bonds	28,888		—		28,888
Asset-backed securities	12,426		—		12,426
Municipal securities	10,005		—		10,005
U.S. government treasury bonds	11,295		11,295		—
Other assets:
Israeli funds	2,371		—		2,371
	$	485,686	$	104,800	$	380,886
Description	Balance as of		Quoted Prices in		Significant Other
	December 31, 2013		Active  Markets for		Observable  Inputs
			Identical Assets		(Level 2)
			(Level 1)
Cash equivalents:
Money market funds	$	143,540	$	143,540	$	—
Commercial paper	15,398		—		15,398
Short-term investments:
Commercial paper	54,328		—		54,328
Corporate bonds	29,085		—		29,085
U.S. dollar denominated foreign corporate bonds	13,971		—		13,971
U.S. government agency bonds	16,703		—		16,703
Municipal securities	7,014		—		7,014
Asset-backed securities	5,939		—		5,939
Long-term investments:
U.S. government agency bonds	38,118		—		38,118
Corporate bonds	23,313		—		23,313
U.S. dollar denominated foreign corporate bonds	19,495		—		19,495
Municipal securities	8,331		—		8,331
U.S. government treasury bonds	6,919		6,919		—
Asset-backed securities	5,802		—		5,802
Other assets:
Israeli funds	2,193		—		2,193
	$	390,149	$	150,459	$	239,690

Balance_Sheet_Components

Balance Sheet Components	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Balance Sheet Components	'
	Balance Sheet Components
	Inventories
	Inventories consist of the following (in thousands):
		September 30,			December 31,
		2014			2013
	Raw materials	$	6,240		$	5,172
	Work in process	3,734			4,241
	Finished goods	6,009			4,555
	Total Inventories	$	15,983		$	13,968
	Work in process includes costs to produce our clear aligner and intra-oral products. Finished goods primarily represent our intra-oral scanners and ancillary products that support our clear aligner products.
	Accrued liabilities
	Accrued liabilities consist of the following (in thousands):
		September 30,			December 31,
		2014			2013
	Accrued payroll and benefits	$	39,265		$	43,029
	Accrued sales rebates	10,256			10,100
	Accrued sales tax and value added tax	7,144			6,215
	Accrued sales and marketing expenses	5,397			3,893
	Accrued accounts payable	5,536			4,053
	Accrued warranty	3,263			3,104
	Accrued professional fees	1,605			1,892
	Accrued income taxes	3,949			1,205
	Other accrued liabilities	10,185			6,854
	Total Accrued Liabilities	$	86,600		$	80,345
	Warranty
	We regularly review the accrued warranty balances and update these balances based on historical warranty trends. Actual warranty costs incurred have not materially differed from those accrued; however, future actual warranty costs could differ from the estimated amounts.
	Clear Aligner
	We warrant our Invisalign products against material defects until the Invisalign case is complete. We accrue for warranty costs in cost of net revenues upon shipment of products. The amount of accrued estimated warranty costs is primarily based on historical experience as to product failures as well as current information on replacement costs.
	Scanners
	We warrant our scanners for a period of one year from the date of training and installation. We accrue for these warranty costs which includes materials and labor based on estimated historical repair costs. Extended service packages may be purchased for additional fees.
	Warranty accrual as of September 30, 2014 and 2013 consists of the following activity (in thousands):
		Nine Months Ended
		September 30,
		2014			2013
	Balance at beginning of period	$	3,104		$	4,050
	Charged to cost of net revenues	1,529			2,813
	Actual warranty expenditures	(1,370		)	(3,057		)
	Balance at end of period	$	3,263		$	3,806

Business_Combinations_Notes

Business Combinations (Notes)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'
Business Combination Disclosure	'
	Business Combinations
	On April 30, 2013, we completed the acquisition of ICA Holdings Pty Limited ("ICA") upon the expiration of the distribution agreement between certain subsidiaries of ICA and Align Technology B.V., for a total cash consideration of approximately $8.6 million, of which $7.4 million was attributed to assets acquired, $2.4 million in liabilities assumed and $3.6 million to goodwill. Goodwill as a result of this acquisition represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the underlying net assets acquired and represents the knowledge and experience of the workforce in place. None of this goodwill will be deductible for tax purposes. Under the applicable accounting guidance, goodwill will not be amortized but will be tested for impairment on an annual basis or more frequently if certain indicators are present.
	Pro forma results of operations for this acquisition have not been presented as it is not material to our results of operations, either individually or in aggregate, for the three or nine months ended September 30, 2013.

Goodwill_and_Longlived_Assets

Goodwill and Long-lived Assets	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Goodwill and Long-lived Assets	'
	Goodwill and Long-lived Assets
	Goodwill
	The change in the carrying value of goodwill for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 by our reportable segments, which are also our reporting units, is as follows (in thousands):
		Clear Aligner
	Balance as of December 31, 2013	$	61,623
	Adjustments 1	(34		)
	Balance as of September 30, 2014	$	61,589
	1 The adjustments to goodwill during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 were due to foreign currency translation.
	The goodwill balance is entirely attributable to our Clear Aligner reporting unit. During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013, we performed the annual goodwill impairment testing and found no impairment events as the fair value of our Clear Aligner reporting unit was significantly in excess of the carrying value.
	Impairment of Goodwill in 2013
	We evaluate our goodwill for impairment at least annually on November 30th or more frequently if indicators are present, an event occurs or circumstances change that suggest an impairment may exist and that it would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the reporting unit below its carrying amount. During March 2013, changes in the competitive environment for intra-oral scanners, including announcements from our competitors of new low-priced scanners targeted at orthodontists and general practitioner dentists in North America, that caused us to lower our expectations for growth and profitability for our Scanner reporting unit. As a result, we determined that goodwill related only to our Scanner reporting unit should be tested for impairment as of March 2013 due to these facts and circumstances which would more likely than not reduce the fair value of our Scanner reporting unit below its carrying amount. There was no triggering event related to our Clear Aligner goodwill.
	We performed a step one analysis for our Scanner reporting unit which consists of a comparison of the fair value of the Scanner reporting unit against its carrying amount, including the goodwill allocated to it. In deriving the fair value of the Scanner reporting unit, we utilized the income approach which is classified as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy. This approach provides an estimated fair value based on discounted expected future cash flows, which are based on management's estimates of revenue growth rates and operating margins, taking into consideration industry and market conditions. The discount rate used is based on a weighted average cost of capital adjusted for the relevant risk associated with the characteristics of the business and the projected cash flows.
	As a result of our step one analysis, we concluded that the fair value of the Scanner reporting unit was less than its carrying value; therefore, we proceeded to step two of the goodwill impairment analysis. Step two of the goodwill impairment analysis measures the impairment charge by allocating the reporting unit's fair value to all of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit in a hypothetical analysis that calculates the implied fair value of goodwill in the same manner as if the reporting unit was being acquired in a business combination. This allocation process was performed only for the purposes of measuring the goodwill impairment and not to adjust the carrying values of the recognized tangible assets and liabilities. Any excess of the carrying value of the reporting unit's goodwill over the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill is recorded as an impairment loss. We use a discounted cash flow ("DCF") approach, utilizing the harvest model, to estimate the fair value of a reporting unit which we believe is the most reliable indicator of fair value of this business, and is most consistent with the approach a market place participant would use. Based on our analysis, there was no implied goodwill for the Scanner reporting unit; therefore, we recorded a goodwill impairment charge of $40.7 million in the three months ended March 31, 2013, which represents the remaining goodwill balance in the Scanner reporting unit. None of the goodwill impairment charge was deductible for tax purposes.
	Long-lived Assets
	Impairment of Long-lived Assets in 2013
	We amortize our intangible assets over their estimated useful lives. We evaluate long-lived assets, which includes property, plant and equipment and intangible assets, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable. The carrying value is not recoverable if it exceeds the undiscounted cash flows resulting from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition. Our estimates of future cash flows attributable to our long-lived assets require significant judgment based on our historical and anticipated results and are subject to many factors. Factors we consider important which could trigger an impairment review include significant negative industry or economic trends, significant loss of customers and changes in the competitive environment of our intra-oral scanning business.
	During March 2013, changes in the competitive environment for intra-oral scanners, including announcements from our competitors of new low-priced scanners targeted at orthodontists and general practitioner dentists in North America, that caused us to lower our expectations for growth and profitability for our Scanner reporting unit. As a result, we determined that the carrying value of the Scanner long-lived assets was not recoverable as compared to the value of the undiscounted cash flows of our revised projections for the asset group. In order to determine the impairment amount of our long-lived assets, we fair valued each key component of our long-lived assets within the asset group, which involved the use of significant estimates and assumptions including replacement costs, revenue growth rates, operating margins, and plant and equipment cost trends. We use a DCF approach, utilizing the harvest model, to estimate the fair value of a reporting unit which we believe is the most reliable indicator of fair value of this business, and is most consistent with the approach a market place participant would use. The estimation of fair value utilizing a DCF approach includes numerous uncertainties which require our significant judgment when making assumptions of expected growth rates and the selection of discount rates, as well as assumptions regarding general economic and business conditions, and the structure that would yield the highest economic value, among other factors. Key assumptions used in measuring the fair values of the Scanner reporting unit included the discount rate (based on the weighted-average cost of capital) and revenue growth. The fair value of Scanner’s trademark was determined using a risk-adjusted DCF approach under the relief-from-royalty method. The royalty rate used was based on a consideration of market rates. The fair value of Scanner’s finite-lived customer relationships was determined using a DCF approach under the multi-period excess earnings method. We determined our long-lived asset group within the Scanner reporting unit to be primarily finite-lived intangible assets, plant and equipment. Upon completion of this analysis, we recorded a total impairment charge of $26.3 million in the three months ended March 31, 2013, of which $19.3 million represented the impairment related to our Scanner intangible assets and $7.0 million related to plant and equipment. There was no triggering event related to the Clear Aligner asset group.
	Intangible assets arising either as a direct result from the Cadent Holdings, Inc. acquisition ("Cadent") or individually acquired are being amortized as follows (in thousands):
		Weighted Average Amortization Period (in years)		Gross Carrying Amount as of		Accumulated			Accumulated			Net Carrying
				September 30, 2014		Amortization			Impairment Loss			Value as of
												30-Sep-14
	Trademarks	15		$	7,100	$	(1,319	)	$	(4,179	)	$	1,602
	Existing technology	13		12,600		(2,873		)	(4,328		)	5,399
	Customer relationships	11		33,500		(8,630		)	(10,751		)	14,119
	Other	8		285		(68		)	—			217
	Total Intangible Assets			$	53,485	$	(12,890	)	$	(19,258	)	$	21,337
		Weighted Average Amortization Period (in years)		Gross Carrying		Accumulated			Accumulated Impairment Loss			Net Carrying
				Amount as of		Amortization						Value as of
				31-Dec-13								December 31, 2013
	Trademarks	15		$	7,100	$	(1,100	)	$	(4,179	)	$	1,821
	Existing technology	13		12,600		(2,236		)	(4,328		)	6,036
	Customer relationships	11		33,500		(7,112		)	(10,751		)	15,637
	Other	8		285		(40		)	—			245
	Total Intangible Assets			$	53,485	$	(10,488	)	$	(19,258	)	$	23,739
	The total estimated annual future amortization expense for these acquired intangible assets as of September 30, 2014 is as follows (in thousands):
	Fiscal Year Ending December 31,
	Remainder of 2014	$	649
	2015	2,600
	2016	2,600
	2017	2,600
	2018	2,600
	Thereafter	10,288
	Total	$	21,337

Credit_Facilities

Credit Facilities	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Credit Facilities	'
	Credit Facilities
	On March 22, 2013, we entered into a credit facility with Wells Fargo Bank. The credit facility provides for a $50.0 million revolving line of credit, with a $10.0 million letter of credit sublimit, and has a maturity date on March 22, 2016. The credit facility also requires us to maintain a minimum unrestricted cash balance of $50.0 million and comply with specific financial conditions and performance requirements. The loan bears interest, at our option, at a fluctuating rate per annum equal to the daily one-month adjusted LIBOR rate plus a spread of 1.75% or an adjusted LIBOR rate (based on one, three, six or twelve-month interest periods) plus a spread of 1.75%. As of September 30, 2014, we had no outstanding borrowings under this credit facility and were in compliance with the conditions and performance requirements.

Legal_Proceedings_Notes

Legal Proceedings (Notes)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Legal Proceedings [Abstract]	'
Legal Proceedings	'
	Legal Proceedings
	Securities Class Action Lawsuit
	On November 28, 2012, plaintiff City of Dearborn Heights Act 345 Police & Fire Retirement System filed a lawsuit against Align, Thomas M. Prescott (“Mr. Prescott”), Align’s President and Chief Executive Officer, and Kenneth B. Arola (“Mr. Arola”), Align’s former Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California on behalf of a purported class of purchasers of our common stock (the “Securities Action”). On July 11, 2013, an amended complaint was filed, which named the same defendants, on behalf of a purported class of purchasers of our common stock between January 31, 2012 and October 17, 2012. The amended complaint alleged that Align, Mr. Prescott and Mr. Arola violated Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder, and that Mr. Prescott and Mr. Arola violated Section 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Specifically, the amended complaint alleged that during the purported class period defendants failed to take an appropriate goodwill impairment charge related to the April 29, 2011 acquisition of Cadent Holdings, Inc. in the fourth quarter of 2011, the first quarter of 2012 or the second quarter of 2012, which rendered our financial statements and projections of future earnings materially false and misleading and in violation of U.S. GAAP. The amended complaint sought monetary damages in an unspecified amount, costs and attorneys’ fees. On December 9, 2013, the court granted defendants’ motion to dismiss with leave for plaintiff to file a second amended complaint. Plaintiff filed a second amended complaint on January 8, 2014 on behalf of the same purported class. The second amended complaint states the same claims as the amended complaint. On August 22, 2014, the court granted our motion to dismiss without leave to amend. On September 22, 2014, Plaintiff filed a notice of appeal to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. Align intends to vigorously defend itself against these allegations. Align is currently unable to predict the outcome of this amended complaint and therefore cannot determine the likelihood of loss nor estimate a range of possible loss, if any.
	Shareholder Derivative Lawsuit
	On February 1, 2013, plaintiff Gary Udis filed a shareholder derivative lawsuit against several of Align’s current and former officers and directors in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara. The complaint alleges that our reported income and earnings were materially overstated because of a failure to timely write down goodwill related to the April 29, 2011 acquisition of Cadent Holdings, Inc., and that defendants made allegedly false statements concerning our forecasts. The complaint asserts various state law causes of action, including claims of breach of fiduciary duty, unjust enrichment, and insider trading, among others. The complaint seeks unspecified damages on behalf of Align, which is named solely as nominal defendant against whom no recovery is sought. The complaint also seeks an order directing Align to reform and improve its corporate governance and internal procedures, and seeks restitution in an unspecified amount, costs, and attorneys’ fees. On July 8, 2013, an Order was entered staying this derivative lawsuit until an initial ruling on our first motion to dismiss the Securities Action. On January 15, 2014, an Order was entered staying this derivative lawsuit until an initial ruling on our second motion to dismiss the Securities Action. On October 14, 2014, an Order was entered staying this derivative lawsuit until a ruling by the Ninth Circuit in the Securities Action discussed above. Align is currently unable to predict the outcome of this complaint and therefore cannot determine the likelihood of loss nor estimate a range of possible losses.
	In addition, in the course of Align's operations, Align is involved in a variety of claims, suits, investigations, and proceedings, including actions with respect to intellectual property claims, patent infringement claims, government investigations, labor and employment claims, breach of contract claims, tax, and other matters. Regardless of the outcome, these proceedings can have an adverse impact on us because of defense costs, diversion of management resources, and other factors. Although the results of complex legal proceedings are difficult to predict and Align's view of these matters may change in the future as litigation and events related thereto unfold; Align currently does not believe that these matters, individually or in the aggregate, will materially affect Align's financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Commitments and Contingencies	'
	Commitments and Contingencies
	Operating Leases
	As of September 30, 2014, minimum future lease payments for non-cancelable operating leases are as follows (in thousands):
	Fiscal Year Ending December 31,	Operating leases
	Remainder of 2014	$	2,282
	2015	8,480
	2016	7,690
	2017	4,346
	2018	1,490
	Thereafter	437
	Total minimum future lease payments	$	24,725
	Off-balance Sheet Arrangements
	As of September 30, 2014, we had no off-balance sheet arrangements that have, or are reasonably likely to have, a current or future material effect on our consolidated financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources.
	Indemnification Provisions
	In the normal course of business to facilitate transactions in our services and products, we indemnify certain parties: customers, vendors, lessors and other parties with respect to certain matters, including, but not limited to, services to be provided by us and intellectual property infringement claims made by third parties. In addition, we have entered into indemnification agreements with our directors and our executive officers that will require us, among other things, to indemnify them against certain liabilities that may arise by reason of their status or service as directors or officers. Several of these agreements limit the time within which an indemnification claim can be made and the amount of the claim.
	It is not possible to make a reasonable estimate of the maximum potential amount under these indemnification agreements due to the unique facts and circumstances involved in each particular agreement. Additionally, we have a limited history of prior indemnification claims and the payments we have made under such agreements have not had a material adverse effect on our results of operations, cash flows or financial position. However, to the extent that valid indemnification claims arise in the future, future payments by us could be significant and could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or cash flows in a particular period. As of September 30, 2014, we did not have any material indemnification claims that were probable or reasonably possible.

Stockbased_Compensation

Stock-based Compensation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Stock-based Compensation	'
	Stock-based Compensation
	Summary of stock-based compensation expense
	As of September 30, 2014, we had a total reserve of 23,283,379 shares for issuance, plus up to an aggregate of 5,000,000 shares that would have been returned to our 2001 Stock Incentive Plan as a result of termination of options on or after March 28, 2005.
	Stock-based compensation is based on the estimated fair value of awards, net of estimated forfeitures, and recognized over the requisite service period. Estimated forfeitures are based on historical experience at the time of grant and may be revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. The stock-based compensation related to all of our stock-based awards and employee stock purchases for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 is as follows (in thousands):
		Three Months Ended								Nine Months Ended
		September 30,								September 30,
		2014				2013				2014				2013
	Cost of net revenues	$	867			$	664			$	2,648			$	1,881
	Sales and marketing	2,837				2,215				8,615				5,238
	General and administrative	4,544				3,687				13,133				11,170
	Research and development	1,662				1,024				4,952				2,976
	Total stock-based compensation	$	9,910			$	7,590			$	29,348			$	21,265
	Options
	Activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 under the stock option plans is set forth below (in thousands, except years and per share amounts):
		Stock Options			Weighted				Weighted  Average		Aggregate
		Number of Shares			Average				Remaining		Intrinsic
		Underlying			Exercise				Contractual  Term		Value
		Stock Options			Price per Share
									(in years )
	Outstanding as of December 31, 2013	1,321			$	16.08
	Granted	—			—
	Exercised	(598	)		16.88
	Cancelled or expired	(4	)		18.33
	Outstanding as of September 30, 2014	719			$	15.4			3.1		$	26,098
	Vested and expected to vest at September 30, 2014	719			$	15.39			3.1		$	26,085
	Exercisable at September 30, 2014	692			$	15.12			3.09		$	25,294
	There were no stock options granted during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013.
	As of September 30, 2014, the total unamortized compensation cost related to stock options, net of estimated forfeitures, is $0.3 million, which we expect to recognize over a weighted average period of 0.5 years.
	Restricted Stock Units (“RSU”)
	A summary of the RSU activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 is as follows (in thousands, except years):
		Number of Shares			Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value				Weighted		Aggregate
		Underlying RSU							Remaining		Intrinsic
									Contractual		Value
									Period
									(in years)
	Nonvested as of December 31, 2013	2,044			$	36.68
	Granted	958			53.71
	Vested and released	(639	)		28.59
	Forfeited	(144	)		36.84
	Nonvested as of September 30, 2014	2,219			$	41.93			1.51		$	114,662
	As of September 30, 2014, the total unamortized compensation cost related to RSU, net of estimated forfeitures, was $68.4 million, which we expect to recognize over a weighted average period of 2.5 years.
	We have granted market-performance based restricted stock units (“MSU”) to our executive officers. Each MSU represents the right to one share of Align’s common stock and will be issued through our amended 2005 Incentive Plan. The actual number of MSU which will be eligible to vest will be based on the performance of Align’s stock price relative to the performance of the NASDAQ Composite Index over the vesting period, generally two to three years, up to 150% of the MSU initially granted.
	The following table summarizes the MSU activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 (in thousands, except years):
		Number of Shares			Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value				Weighted Average		Aggregate
		Underlying MSU							Remaining		Intrinsic
									Contractual Period		Value
									(in years )
	Nonvested as of December 31, 2013	307			$	31.96
	Granted	243			50.46
	Vested and released	(52	)		22.41
	Forfeited	—			—
	Nonvested as of September 30, 2014	498			$	42			1.63		$	25,711
	As of September 30, 2014, the total unamortized compensation costs related to the MSU, net of estimated forfeitures, was $11.1 million, which we expect to recognize over a weighted average period of 1.6 years.
	Employee Stock Purchase Plan ("ESPP")
	In May 2010, our stockholders approved the 2010 Employee Stock Purchase Plan ("2010 Purchase Plan") which will continue until terminated by either the Board of Directors or its administrator. The maximum number of shares available for purchase under the 2010 Purchase Plan is 2,400,000 shares. As of September 30, 2014, there remains 1,363,827 shares available for purchase under the 2010 Purchase Plan.
	The fair value of the option component of the 2010 Purchase Plan shares was estimated at the grant date using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:
			Three Months Ended								Nine Months Ended
			September 30,								September 30,
			2014				2013				2014				2013
	ESPP:
	Expected term (in years)		1.3				1.2				1.2				1.2
	Expected volatility		35.8		%		37.3		%		38.8		%		44.9		%
	Risk-free interest rate		0.24		%		0.2		%		0.2		%		0.2		%
Expected dividends		—				—				—				—
Weighted average fair value at grant date		$	16.44			$	13.84			$	17.15			$	11.7
As of September 30, 2014, the total unamortized compensation cost related to employee purchases was $1.3 million, which we expect to recognize over a weighted average period of 0.6 year.

Common_Stock_Repurchase_Progra

Common Stock Repurchase Program	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Common Stock Repurchase	'
	Common Stock Repurchase
	On April 23, 2014, we announced that our Board of Directors had authorized a stock repurchase program pursuant to which we may purchase up to $300.0 million of our common stock over the next three years, with $100.0 million of that amount authorized to be purchased over the first twelve months. Any purchases under this stock repurchase program may be made, from time-to-time, pursuant to open market purchases (including pursuant to Rule 10b5-1 plans), privately-negotiated transactions, accelerated stock repurchases, block trades or derivative contracts or otherwise in accordance with applicable federal securities laws, including Rule 10b-18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
	As part of our $300.0 million stock repurchase program, we entered into an accelerated share repurchase agreement ("ASR") with Goldman, Sachs & Co. on April 28, 2014 to repurchase $70.0 million of our common stock. We paid $70.0 million on April 29, 2014 and received an initial delivery of approximately 1.0 million shares. The ASR was completed on July 29, 2014 with a final delivery of approximately 0.4 million shares. We received a total of approximately 1.4 million shares under the ASR for an average purchase price per share of $51.46, which all shares were retired. The final number of shares repurchased was based on our volume-weighted average stock price during the term of the transaction, less an agreed upon discount.
	During the three months ended September 30, 2014, we repurchased on the open market approximately 0.1 million shares of our common stock at an average price of $54.22 per share, including commissions, for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $7.4 million. All repurchased shares were retired. As of September 30, 2014, we have $222.6 million remaining under the April 2014 stock repurchase program, $22.6 million of which we expect to purchase over the next six months.

Accounting_for_Income_Taxes

Accounting for Income Taxes	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Accounting for Income Taxes	'
	Accounting for Income Taxes
	Our provision for income taxes was $11.3 million and $7.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. This represents effective tax rates of 22.8% and 17.6%, respectively. The increase in our provision for income taxes was primarily due to higher pre-tax income, which was partially offset by a jurisdictional shift in forecasted earnings from the U.S. to lower-tax non-U.S. jurisdictions.
	Our provision for income taxes was $34.3 million and $18.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. This represents effective tax rates of 24.4% and 45.9%, respectively. Our provision for income taxes reflects a negative impact from a $1.8 million adjustment related to prior years, offset by a jurisdictional shift in forecasted earnings from the U.S. to lower-tax non-U.S. jurisdictions. The effective tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 reflects a non-deductible goodwill impairment charge of $40.7 million recorded during the three months ended March 31, 2013.
	We exercise significant judgment in regards to estimates of future market growth, forecasted earnings and projected taxable income in determining the provision for income taxes, and for purposes of assessing our ability to utilize any future benefit from deferred tax assets.
	As of September 30, 2014, we maintained a valuation allowance of $35.4 million against deferred tax assets primarily related to foreign net operating loss carryforwards and capital loss carryforwards. These net operating and capital loss carryforwards would result in an income tax benefit if we were to conclude it is more likely than not that the related deferred tax assets will be realized.
	During the three months ended September 30, 2014, the change in our gross unrecognized tax benefits was not material. The total amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits was $31.1 million as of September 30, 2014, all of which would impact our effective tax rate if recognized. We have elected to recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income taxes. The change in accrued interest and penalties during the three months ended September 30, 2014 was not material. We do not expect any significant changes to the amount of unrecognized tax benefit within the next twelve months.
	During the first quarter of 2014, we adopted ASU 2013-11, "Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit when a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists (a consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force)." The adoption of this standard had the effect of reducing our accruals for uncertain tax positions by $8.4 million, with an offsetting reduction in our long term deferred tax assets, but had no effect on net income.
	We are subject to taxation in the U.S. and various states and foreign jurisdictions. All of our tax years will be open to examination by the U.S. federal and most state tax authorities due to our net operating loss and overall credit carryforward position. With few exceptions, we are no longer subject to examination by foreign tax authorities for years before 2006.
	In June 2009, the Costa Rica Ministry of Foreign Trade, an agency of the Government of Costa Rica, granted a twelve year extension of certain income tax incentives, which were previously granted in 2002. The incentive tax rates will expire in various years beginning in 2017. Under these incentives, all of the income in Costa Rica during these twelve year incentive periods is subject to reduced rate of Costa Rica income tax. In order to receive the benefit of these incentives, we must hire specified numbers of employees and maintain certain minimum levels of fixed asset investment in Costa Rica. If we do not fulfill these conditions for any reason, our incentive could lapse, and our income in Costa Rica would be subject to taxation at higher rates, which could have a negative impact on our operating results. The Costa Rica corporate income tax rate that would apply, absent the incentives, is 30% for 2014. As a result of these incentives, our income taxes were reduced by $22.8 million and $18.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, representing a benefit to diluted net income per share of $0.28 and $0.22 in 2014 and 2013, respectively. For the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, income taxes were reduced by $7.7 million and $6.1 million, respectively, representing a benefit to diluted net income per share of $0.09 and $0.08, respectively.

Net_Profit_Per_Share

Net Profit Per Share	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Net Profit Per Share	'
	Net Income Per Share
	Basic net income per share is computed using the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted net income per share is computed using the weighted average number of shares of common stock, adjusted for any dilutive effect of potential common stock. Potential common stock, computed using the treasury stock method, includes stock options, RSU, MSU and ESPP.
	The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted net income per share attributable to common stock (in thousands, except per share amounts):
		Three Months Ended,				Nine Months Ended,
		September 30,				September 30,
		2014		2013		2014		2013
	Numerator:
	Net income	$	38,247	$	34,537	$	106,291	$	21,874
	Denominator:
	Weighted-average common shares outstanding, basic	80,629		79,967		80,924		80,592
	Dilutive effect of potential common stock	1,385		1,881		1,519		1,957
	Total shares, diluted	82,014		81,848		82,443		82,549
	Net income per share, basic	$	0.47	$	0.43	$	1.31	$	0.27
	Net income per share, diluted	$	0.47	$	0.42	$	1.29	$	0.26
	For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and September 30, 2013, the anti-dilutive effect from stock options, RSU, MSU and ESPP was not material.

Segments_and_Geographical_Info

Segments and Geographical Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Segments and Geographical Information	'
	Segments and Geographical Information
	Segment Information
	Operating segments are defined as components of an enterprise for which separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by the Chief Operating Decision Maker (“CODM”), or decision-making group, in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance. Our CODM is our Chief Executive Officer. We report segment information based on the management approach. The management approach designates the internal reporting used by CODM for decision making and performance assessment as the basis for determining our reportable segments. The performance measures of our reportable segments include net revenues and gross profit.
	We have grouped our operations into two reportable segments which are also our reporting units: Clear Aligner segment and Scanner segment.
	•	Our Clear Aligner segment consists of our Invisalign system which includes Invisalign Full, Express/Lite, Teen, Assist, Vivera retainers, along with our training and ancillary products for treating malocclusion.
	•	Our Scanner segment consists of intra-oral scanning systems and additional services available with the intra-oral scanners that provide digital alternatives to the traditional cast models. This segment includes our iTero scanner and OrthoCAD services.
	These reportable operating segments are based on how our CODM views and evaluates our operations as well as allocation of resources. The following information relates to these segments (in thousands):
		For the Three Months Ended September 30,				For the Nine Months Ended September 30,
	Net Revenues	2014		2013		2014		2013
	Clear Aligner
	Invisalign Full Products	$	147,583	$	125,169	$	432,874	$	361,328
	Invisalign Express/Lite Products	19,205		17,702		59,308		52,943
	Invisalign non-case revenues	11,350		10,679		33,930		34,154
	Scanner
	Scanners and Services	11,738		10,956		36,941		33,489
	Total net revenues	$	189,876	$	164,506	$	563,053	$	481,914
	Gross profit
	Clear Aligner	$	141,117	$	122,663	$	415,903	$	352,114
	Scanners and Services	3,937		2,427		11,878		9,516
	Total gross profit	$	145,054	$	125,090	$	427,781	$	361,630
	Geographical Information
	Net revenues are presented below by geographic area (in thousands):
		For the Three Months Ended September 30,				For the Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2014		2013		2014		2013
	Net revenues: (1)
	U.S.	$	134,244	$	123,904	$	396,837	$	365,596
	the Netherlands	35,878		26,494		118,401		86,049
	Other international	19,754		14,108		47,815		30,269
	Total net revenues	$	189,876	$	164,506	$	563,053	$	481,914
	(1) Net revenues are attributed to countries based on location of where revenue is recognized.
	Tangible long-lived assets are presented below by geographic area (in thousands):
		September 30,		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Long-lived assets:(2)
	United States	$	72,616	$	61,439
	Mexico	6,266		6,291
	the Netherlands	1,067		1,630
	Other International	6,498		6,383
	Total long-lived assets	$	86,447	$	75,743
	(2) Long-lived assets are attributed to countries based on entity that owns the asset.

Summary_of_Significant_Account1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Basis of presentation	'
	Basis of presentation
	The accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared by Align Technology, Inc. (“we”, “our”, or “Align”) in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and contain all adjustments, including normal recurring adjustments, necessary to present fairly our results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, our comprehensive income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, our financial position as of September 30, 2014 and our cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013. The Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2013 was derived from the December 31, 2013 audited financial statements. Net revenues by geographic area for prior period amounts in Note 13 have been reclassified to conform with the current period presentation. These reclassifications had no impact on our financial position for the three or nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013.
	The results of operations for the three months ended September 30, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2014 or any other future period, and we make no representations related thereto. The information included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” and the Consolidated Financial Statements and notes thereto included in Items 7, 7A and 8, respectively, in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013.
Use of estimates	'
	Use of estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") in the United States of America (“U.S.”) requires our management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates, including those related to the fair values of financial instruments, long-lived assets and goodwill, useful lives of intangible assets and property and equipment, stock-based compensation, income taxes, and contingent liabilities, among others. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	'
	Recent Accounting Pronouncements
	In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers,” requiring an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers. The updated standard will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in U.S. GAAP when it becomes effective and permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. Early adoption is not permitted. The updated standard becomes effective for us in the first quarter of fiscal 2017. We have not yet selected a transition method and we are currently evaluating the effect that the updated standard will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

Marketable_Securities_and_Fair1

Marketable Securities and Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Short-Term And Long-Term Marketable Securities	'
	As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the estimated fair value of our short-term and long-term marketable securities, classified as available for sale, are as follows (in thousands):
	Short-term
	September 30, 2014	Amortized		Gross		Gross			Fair Value
		Cost		Unrealized		Unrealized
				Gains		Losses
	Commercial paper	$	44,840	$	—	$	—		$	44,840
	Corporate bonds	117,981		45		(50		)	117,976
	U.S. government agency bonds	47,560		31		(2		)	47,589
	U.S. dollar dominated foreign corporate bonds	911		2		—			913
	Municipal securities	13,567		18		—			13,585
	U.S. government treasury bonds	18,496		24		—			18,520
	Certificates of deposit	1,397		—		—			1,397
	Total Marketable Securities, Short-Term	$	244,752	$	120	$	(52	)	$	244,820
	Long-term
	September 30, 2014	Amortized		Gross		Gross			Fair Value
		Cost		Unrealized		Unrealized
				Gains		Losses
	U.S. government agency bonds	$	28,887	$	7	$	(6	)	$	28,888
	Corporate bonds	73,494		13		(104		)	73,403
	Municipal securities	10,007		4		(6		)	10,005
	U.S. government treasury bonds	11,298		1		(4		)	11,295
	Asset-backed securities	12,439		—		(13		)	12,426
	Total Marketable Securities, Long-Term	$	136,125	$	25	$	(133	)	$	136,017
	Short-term
	December 31, 2013	Amortized		Gross		Gross			Fair Value
		Cost		Unrealized		Unrealized
				Gains		Losses
	Commercial paper	$	54,318	$	10	$	—		$	54,328
	Corporate bonds	29,079		10		(4		)	29,085
	U.S. government agency bonds	16,693		10		—			16,703
	U.S. dollar dominated foreign corporate bonds	13,959		12		—			13,971
	Municipal securities	7,006		11		(3		)	7,014
	Asset-backed securities	5,937		2		—			5,939
	Total Marketable Securities, Short-Term	$	126,992	$	55	$	(7	)	$	127,040
	Long-term
	31-Dec-13	Amortized		Gross		Gross			Fair Value
		Cost		Unrealized		Unrealized
				Gains		Losses
	U.S. government agency bonds	$	38,138	$	1	$	(21	)	$	38,118
	Corporate bonds	23,308		14		(9		)	23,313
	U.S. dollar dominated foreign corporate bonds	19,485		27		(17		)	19,495
	Municipal securities	8,326		13		(8		)	8,331
	U.S. government treasury bonds	6,916		3		—			6,919
	Asset-backed securities	5,800		4		(2		)	5,802
	Total Marketable Securities, Long-Term	$	101,973	$	62	$	(57	)	$	101,978
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block]	'
	As the carrying value approximates the fair value for our short-term and long-term marketable securities shown in the tables above, the following table summarizes the fair value of our short-term and long-term marketable securities classified by maturity as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 (in thousands):
		September 30,		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Due in one year or less	$	244,820	$	127,040
	Due in greater than one year	136,017		101,978
	Total available for sale short-term and long-term marketable securities	$	380,837	$	229,018
Financial Assets Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis	'
	The following tables summarize our financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 (in thousands):
	Description	Balance as of		Quoted Prices in		Significant Other
		30-Sep-14		Active  Markets for		Observable  Inputs
				Identical Assets		(Level 2)
				(Level 1)
	Cash equivalents:
	Money market funds	$	74,985	$	74,985	$	—
	Commercial paper	27,493		—		27,493
	Short-term investments:
	Commercial paper	44,840		—		44,840
	Corporate bonds	117,976		—		117,976
	U.S. government agency bonds	47,589		—		47,589
	Municipal securities	13,585		—		13,585
	U.S. dollar dominated foreign corporate bonds	913		—		913
	U.S. government treasury bonds	18,520		18,520		—
	Certificates of deposit	1,397		—		1,397
	Long-term investments:
	Corporate bonds	73,403		—		73,403
	U.S. government agency bonds	28,888		—		28,888
	Asset-backed securities	12,426		—		12,426
	Municipal securities	10,005		—		10,005
	U.S. government treasury bonds	11,295		11,295		—
	Other assets:
	Israeli funds	2,371		—		2,371
		$	485,686	$	104,800	$	380,886
	Description	Balance as of		Quoted Prices in		Significant Other
		December 31, 2013		Active  Markets for		Observable  Inputs
				Identical Assets		(Level 2)
				(Level 1)
	Cash equivalents:
	Money market funds	$	143,540	$	143,540	$	—
	Commercial paper	15,398		—		15,398
	Short-term investments:
	Commercial paper	54,328		—		54,328
	Corporate bonds	29,085		—		29,085
	U.S. dollar denominated foreign corporate bonds	13,971		—		13,971
	U.S. government agency bonds	16,703		—		16,703
	Municipal securities	7,014		—		7,014
	Asset-backed securities	5,939		—		5,939
	Long-term investments:
	U.S. government agency bonds	38,118		—		38,118
	Corporate bonds	23,313		—		23,313
	U.S. dollar denominated foreign corporate bonds	19,495		—		19,495
	Municipal securities	8,331		—		8,331
	U.S. government treasury bonds	6,919		6,919		—
	Asset-backed securities	5,802		—		5,802
	Other assets:
	Israeli funds	2,193		—		2,193
		$	390,149	$	150,459	$	239,690

Balance_Sheet_Components_Table

Balance Sheet Components (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Inventories	'
	Inventories consist of the following (in thousands):
		September 30,			December 31,
		2014			2013
	Raw materials	$	6,240		$	5,172
	Work in process	3,734			4,241
	Finished goods	6,009			4,555
	Total Inventories	$	15,983		$	13,968
Schedule of Accrued Liabilities	'
	Accrued liabilities consist of the following (in thousands):
		September 30,			December 31,
		2014			2013
	Accrued payroll and benefits	$	39,265		$	43,029
	Accrued sales rebates	10,256			10,100
	Accrued sales tax and value added tax	7,144			6,215
	Accrued sales and marketing expenses	5,397			3,893
	Accrued accounts payable	5,536			4,053
	Accrued warranty	3,263			3,104
	Accrued professional fees	1,605			1,892
	Accrued income taxes	3,949			1,205
	Other accrued liabilities	10,185			6,854
	Total Accrued Liabilities	$	86,600		$	80,345
Warranty Accrual	'
	Warranty accrual as of September 30, 2014 and 2013 consists of the following activity (in thousands):
		Nine Months Ended
		September 30,
		2014			2013
	Balance at beginning of period	$	3,104		$	4,050
	Charged to cost of net revenues	1,529			2,813
	Actual warranty expenditures	(1,370		)	(3,057		)
	Balance at end of period	$	3,263		$	3,806

Goodwill_and_Longlived_Assets_

Goodwill and Long-lived Assets (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Summary of Goodwill by Reportable Segment	'
	The change in the carrying value of goodwill for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 by our reportable segments, which are also our reporting units, is as follows (in thousands):
		Clear Aligner
	Balance as of December 31, 2013	$	61,623
	Adjustments 1	(34		)
	Balance as of September 30, 2014	$	61,589
Schedule Of Amortized Intangible Assets	'
	Intangible assets arising either as a direct result from the Cadent Holdings, Inc. acquisition ("Cadent") or individually acquired are being amortized as follows (in thousands):
		Weighted Average Amortization Period (in years)		Gross Carrying Amount as of		Accumulated			Accumulated			Net Carrying
				September 30, 2014		Amortization			Impairment Loss			Value as of
												30-Sep-14
	Trademarks	15		$	7,100	$	(1,319	)	$	(4,179	)	$	1,602
	Existing technology	13		12,600		(2,873		)	(4,328		)	5,399
	Customer relationships	11		33,500		(8,630		)	(10,751		)	14,119
	Other	8		285		(68		)	—			217
	Total Intangible Assets			$	53,485	$	(12,890	)	$	(19,258	)	$	21,337
		Weighted Average Amortization Period (in years)		Gross Carrying		Accumulated			Accumulated Impairment Loss			Net Carrying
				Amount as of		Amortization						Value as of
				31-Dec-13								December 31, 2013
	Trademarks	15		$	7,100	$	(1,100	)	$	(4,179	)	$	1,821
	Existing technology	13		12,600		(2,236		)	(4,328		)	6,036
	Customer relationships	11		33,500		(7,112		)	(10,751		)	15,637
	Other	8		285		(40		)	—			245
	Total Intangible Assets			$	53,485	$	(10,488	)	$	(19,258	)	$	23,739
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense	'
	The total estimated annual future amortization expense for these acquired intangible assets as of September 30, 2014 is as follows (in thousands):
	Fiscal Year Ending December 31,
	Remainder of 2014	$	649
	2015	2,600
	2016	2,600
	2017	2,600
	2018	2,600
	Thereafter	10,288
	Total	$	21,337

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Future Lease Payments	'
	As of September 30, 2014, minimum future lease payments for non-cancelable operating leases are as follows (in thousands):
	Fiscal Year Ending December 31,	Operating leases
	Remainder of 2014	$	2,282
	2015	8,480
	2016	7,690
	2017	4,346
	2018	1,490
	Thereafter	437
	Total minimum future lease payments	$	24,725

Stockbased_Compensation_Tables

Stock-based Compensation (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Stock-based Compensation Expense	'
	The stock-based compensation related to all of our stock-based awards and employee stock purchases for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 is as follows (in thousands):
		Three Months Ended								Nine Months Ended
		September 30,								September 30,
		2014				2013				2014				2013
	Cost of net revenues	$	867			$	664			$	2,648			$	1,881
	Sales and marketing	2,837				2,215				8,615				5,238
	General and administrative	4,544				3,687				13,133				11,170
	Research and development	1,662				1,024				4,952				2,976
	Total stock-based compensation	$	9,910			$	7,590			$	29,348			$	21,265
Stock Option Activity	'																	[1]
	Activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 under the stock option plans is set forth below (in thousands, except years and per share amounts):
		Stock Options			Weighted				Weighted  Average		Aggregate
		Number of Shares			Average				Remaining		Intrinsic
		Underlying			Exercise				Contractual  Term		Value
		Stock Options			Price per Share
									(in years )
	Outstanding as of December 31, 2013	1,321			$	16.08
	Granted	—			—
	Exercised	(598	)		16.88
	Cancelled or expired	(4	)		18.33
	Outstanding as of September 30, 2014	719			$	15.4			3.1		$	26,098
	Vested and expected to vest at September 30, 2014	719			$	15.39			3.1		$	26,085
	Exercisable at September 30, 2014	692			$	15.12			3.09		$	25,294
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Valuation Assumptions	'
	The fair value of the option component of the 2010 Purchase Plan shares was estimated at the grant date using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:
			Three Months Ended								Nine Months Ended
			September 30,								September 30,
			2014				2013				2014				2013
	ESPP:
	Expected term (in years)		1.3				1.2				1.2				1.2
	Expected volatility		35.8		%		37.3		%		38.8		%		44.9		%
	Risk-free interest rate		0.24		%		0.2		%		0.2		%		0.2		%
	Expected dividends		—				—				—				—
	Weighted average fair value at grant date		$	16.44			$	13.84			$	17.15			$	11.7
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)	'
Summary Of Nonvested Shares	'
	A summary of the RSU activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 is as follows (in thousands, except years):
		Number of Shares			Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value				Weighted		Aggregate
		Underlying RSU							Remaining		Intrinsic
									Contractual		Value
									Period
									(in years)
	Nonvested as of December 31, 2013	2,044			$	36.68
	Granted	958			53.71
	Vested and released	(639	)		28.59
	Forfeited	(144	)		36.84
	Nonvested as of September 30, 2014	2,219			$	41.93			1.51		$	114,662
Market Performance Based Restricted Stock Units	'
Summary Of Nonvested Shares	'
	The following table summarizes the MSU activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 (in thousands, except years):
		Number of Shares			Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value				Weighted Average		Aggregate
		Underlying MSU							Remaining		Intrinsic
									Contractual Period		Value
									(in years )
	Nonvested as of December 31, 2013	307			$	31.96
	Granted	243			50.46
	Vested and released	(52	)		22.41
	Forfeited	—			—
	Nonvested as of September 30, 2014	498			$	42			1.63		$	25,711
[1]	There were no stock options granted during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013.

Net_Profit_Per_Share_Tables

Net Profit Per Share (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Schedule Of Earnings Per Share Basic And Diluted	'
	The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted net income per share attributable to common stock (in thousands, except per share amounts):
		Three Months Ended,				Nine Months Ended,
		September 30,				September 30,
		2014		2013		2014		2013
	Numerator:
	Net income	$	38,247	$	34,537	$	106,291	$	21,874
	Denominator:
	Weighted-average common shares outstanding, basic	80,629		79,967		80,924		80,592
	Dilutive effect of potential common stock	1,385		1,881		1,519		1,957
	Total shares, diluted	82,014		81,848		82,443		82,549
	Net income per share, basic	$	0.47	$	0.43	$	1.31	$	0.27
	Net income per share, diluted	$	0.47	$	0.42	$	1.29	$	0.26

Segments_and_Geographical_Info1

Segments and Geographical Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas	'
	These reportable operating segments are based on how our CODM views and evaluates our operations as well as allocation of resources. The following information relates to these segments (in thousands):
		For the Three Months Ended September 30,				For the Nine Months Ended September 30,
	Net Revenues	2014		2013		2014		2013
	Clear Aligner
	Invisalign Full Products	$	147,583	$	125,169	$	432,874	$	361,328
	Invisalign Express/Lite Products	19,205		17,702		59,308		52,943
	Invisalign non-case revenues	11,350		10,679		33,930		34,154
	Scanner
	Scanners and Services	11,738		10,956		36,941		33,489
	Total net revenues	$	189,876	$	164,506	$	563,053	$	481,914
	Gross profit
	Clear Aligner	$	141,117	$	122,663	$	415,903	$	352,114
	Scanners and Services	3,937		2,427		11,878		9,516
	Total gross profit	$	145,054	$	125,090	$	427,781	$	361,630
	Geographical Information
	Net revenues are presented below by geographic area (in thousands):
		For the Three Months Ended September 30,				For the Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2014		2013		2014		2013
	Net revenues: (1)
	U.S.	$	134,244	$	123,904	$	396,837	$	365,596
	the Netherlands	35,878		26,494		118,401		86,049
	Other international	19,754		14,108		47,815		30,269
	Total net revenues	$	189,876	$	164,506	$	563,053	$	481,914
	(1) Net revenues are attributed to countries based on location of where revenue is recognized.
	Tangible long-lived assets are presented below by geographic area (in thousands):
		September 30,		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Long-lived assets:(2)
	United States	$	72,616	$	61,439
	Mexico	6,266		6,291
	the Netherlands	1,067		1,630
	Other International	6,498		6,383
	Total long-lived assets	$	86,447	$	75,743
	(2) Long-lived assets are attributed to countries based on entity that owns the asset.

ShortTerm_and_LongTerm_Marketa

Short-Term and Long-Term Marketable Securities (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Total available for sale short-term and long-term marketable securities	$380,837	$229,018
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Short-term Investments	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	244,752	126,992
Gross Unrealized Gains	120	55
Gross Unrealized Losses	-52	-7
Total available for sale short-term and long-term marketable securities	244,820	127,040
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Short-term Investments | Commercial paper	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	44,840	54,318
Gross Unrealized Gains	0	10
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Total available for sale short-term and long-term marketable securities	44,840	54,328
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Short-term Investments | Corporate bonds	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	117,981	29,079
Gross Unrealized Gains	45	10
Gross Unrealized Losses	-50	-4
Total available for sale short-term and long-term marketable securities	117,976	29,085
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Short-term Investments | U.S. government agency bonds	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	47,560	16,693
Gross Unrealized Gains	31	10
Gross Unrealized Losses	-2	0
Total available for sale short-term and long-term marketable securities	47,589	16,703
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Short-term Investments | Asset-backed securities	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	'	5,937
Gross Unrealized Gains	'	2
Gross Unrealized Losses	'	0
Total available for sale short-term and long-term marketable securities	'	5,939
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Short-term Investments | Municipal securities	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	13,567	7,006
Gross Unrealized Gains	18	11
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	-3
Total available for sale short-term and long-term marketable securities	13,585	7,014
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Short-term Investments | U.S. dollar dominated foreign corporate bonds	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	911	13,959
Gross Unrealized Gains	2	12
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Total available for sale short-term and long-term marketable securities	913	13,971
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Short-term Investments | U.S. government treasury bonds	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	18,496	'
Gross Unrealized Gains	24	'
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	'
Total available for sale short-term and long-term marketable securities	18,520	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Short-term Investments | Certificates of deposit	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	1,397	'
Gross Unrealized Gains	0	'
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	'
Total available for sale short-term and long-term marketable securities	1,397	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Long-term Investments	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	136,125	101,973
Gross Unrealized Gains	25	62
Gross Unrealized Losses	-133	-57
Total available for sale short-term and long-term marketable securities	136,017	101,978
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Long-term Investments | Corporate bonds	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	73,494	23,308
Gross Unrealized Gains	13	14
Gross Unrealized Losses	-104	-9
Total available for sale short-term and long-term marketable securities	73,403	23,313
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Long-term Investments | U.S. government agency bonds	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	28,887	38,138
Gross Unrealized Gains	7	1
Gross Unrealized Losses	-6	-21
Total available for sale short-term and long-term marketable securities	28,888	38,118
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Long-term Investments | Asset-backed securities	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	12,439	5,800
Gross Unrealized Gains	0	4
Gross Unrealized Losses	-13	-2
Total available for sale short-term and long-term marketable securities	12,426	5,802
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Long-term Investments | Municipal securities	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	10,007	8,326
Gross Unrealized Gains	4	13
Gross Unrealized Losses	-6	-8
Total available for sale short-term and long-term marketable securities	10,005	8,331
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Long-term Investments | U.S. dollar dominated foreign corporate bonds	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	'	19,485
Gross Unrealized Gains	'	27
Gross Unrealized Losses	'	-17
Total available for sale short-term and long-term marketable securities	'	19,495
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Long-term Investments | U.S. government treasury bonds	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	11,298	6,916
Gross Unrealized Gains	1	3
Gross Unrealized Losses	-4	0
Total available for sale short-term and long-term marketable securities	$11,295	$6,919

Marketable_Securities_and_Fair2

Marketable Securities and Fair Value Measurements Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Maturity Period Used To Classify Investments	'	'	'	'	'27 months	'	'
Marketable Securities, Weighted Average Remaining Maturity	'	'	'	'	'11 months	'	'11 months
Impairment of long-lived assets	$26,300	$0	$0	'	$0	$26,320	'
Impairment of goodwill	'	$0	$0	$40,693	$0	$40,693	'

Marketable_Securities_and_Fair3

Marketable Securities and Fair Value Measurements Available For Sale Securities (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Due in one year or less	$244,820	$127,040
Due in greater than one year	136,017	101,978
Total available for sale short-term and long-term marketable securities	$380,837	$229,018

Summary_of_Financial_Assets_Me

Summary of Financial Assets Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	$380,837,000	$229,018,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	485,686,000	390,149,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Israeli Severance Funds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Other assets	2,371,000	2,193,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Cash Equivalents | Money market funds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Cash equivalents	74,985,000	143,540,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Cash Equivalents | Commercial paper	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Cash equivalents	27,493,000	15,398,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Short-term Investments	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	244,820,000	127,040,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Short-term Investments | Commercial paper	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	44,840,000	54,328,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Short-term Investments | Corporate bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	117,976,000	29,085,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Short-term Investments | U.S. dollar dominated foreign corporate bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	913,000	13,971,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Short-term Investments | U.S. government agency bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	47,589,000	16,703,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Short-term Investments | Foreign bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	913,000	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Short-term Investments | U.S. government treasury bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	18,520,000	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Short-term Investments | Certificates of deposit	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	1,397,000	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Short-term Investments | Municipal securities	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	13,585,000	7,014,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Short-term Investments | US Government Agency Bonds [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	47,589,000	16,703,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Short-term Investments | Asset-backed securities	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	'	5,939,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Long-term Investments	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	136,017,000	101,978,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Long-term Investments | Corporate bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	73,403,000	23,313,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Long-term Investments | U.S. dollar dominated foreign corporate bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	'	19,495,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Long-term Investments | U.S. government agency bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	28,888,000	38,118,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Long-term Investments | Foreign bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	'	19,495,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Long-term Investments | U.S. government treasury bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	11,295,000	6,919,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Long-term Investments | Municipal securities	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	10,005,000	8,331,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Long-term Investments | US Government Agency Bonds [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	'	6,919,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Long-term Investments | Asset-backed securities	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	12,426,000	5,802,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	104,800,000	150,459,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Israeli Severance Funds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Other assets	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Cash Equivalents | Money market funds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Cash equivalents	74,985,000	143,540,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Cash Equivalents | Commercial paper	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Cash equivalents	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Short-term Investments | Commercial paper	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Short-term Investments | Corporate bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Short-term Investments | U.S. dollar dominated foreign corporate bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	'	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Short-term Investments | Foreign bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	0	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Short-term Investments | U.S. government treasury bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	18,520,000	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Short-term Investments | Certificates of deposit	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	0	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Short-term Investments | Municipal securities	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Short-term Investments | US Government Agency Bonds [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Short-term Investments | Asset-backed securities	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	'	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Long-term Investments | Corporate bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Long-term Investments | U.S. government agency bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Long-term Investments | Foreign bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	'	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Long-term Investments | U.S. government treasury bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	11,295,000	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Long-term Investments | Municipal securities	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Long-term Investments | US Government Agency Bonds [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	'	6,919,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Long-term Investments | Asset-backed securities	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	380,886,000	239,690,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Israeli Severance Funds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Other assets	2,371,000	2,193,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Cash Equivalents | Money market funds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Cash equivalents	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Cash Equivalents | Commercial paper	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Cash equivalents	27,493,000	15,398,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Short-term Investments | Commercial paper	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	44,840,000	54,328,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Short-term Investments | Corporate bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	117,976,000	29,085,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Short-term Investments | U.S. dollar dominated foreign corporate bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	'	13,971,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Short-term Investments | Foreign bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	913,000	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Short-term Investments | U.S. government treasury bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	0	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Short-term Investments | Certificates of deposit	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	1,397,000	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Short-term Investments | Municipal securities	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	13,585,000	7,014,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Short-term Investments | US Government Agency Bonds [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	47,589,000	16,703,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Short-term Investments | Asset-backed securities	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	'	5,939,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Long-term Investments | Corporate bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	73,403,000	23,313,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Long-term Investments | U.S. government agency bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	28,888,000	38,118,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Long-term Investments | Foreign bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	'	19,495,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Long-term Investments | U.S. government treasury bonds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	0	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Long-term Investments | Municipal securities	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	10,005,000	8,331,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Long-term Investments | US Government Agency Bonds [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	'	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Long-term Investments | Asset-backed securities	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investments	$12,426,000	$5,802,000

Inventories_Details

Inventories (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Disclosure Inventories [Abstract]	'	'
Raw materials	$6,240	$5,172
Work in process	3,734	4,241
Finished goods	6,009	4,555
Total Inventories	$15,983	$13,968

Accrued_Liabilities_Details

Accrued Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Disclosure Accrued Liabilities [Abstract]	'	'
Accrued payroll and benefits	$39,265	$43,029
Accrued sales rebate	10,256	10,100
Accrued sales tax and value added tax	7,144	6,215
Accrued sales and marketing expenses	5,397	3,893
Accrued accounts payable	5,536	4,053
Accrued warranty	3,263	3,104
Accrued professional fees	1,605	1,892
Accrued income taxes	3,949	1,205
Other accrued liabilities	10,185	6,854
Total Accrued Liabilities	$86,600	$80,345

Balance_Sheet_Components_Addit

Balance Sheet Components - Additional Information (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Disclosure Balance Sheet Components Additional Information [Abstract]	'
Scanners, Warranty period	'1 year

Warranty_Accrual_Activity_Deta

Warranty Accrual Activity (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Movement in Standard Product Warranty Accrual [Roll Forward]	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	$3,104	$4,050
Charged to cost of revenues	1,529	2,813
Actual warranty expenditures	-1,370	-3,057
Balance at end of period	$3,263	$3,806

Business_Combinations_Details

Business Combinations (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Apr. 30, 2013
			ICA Holdings Pty Limited [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'	'
Payments to acquire business	'	'	$8,600,000
Assets acquired	'	'	7,400,000
Liabilities assumed	'	'	2,400,000
Goodwill and intangible assets, net	$82,926,000	$85,362,000	$3,600,000

Change_in_Carrying_Value_of_Go

Change in Carrying Value of Goodwill (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified			Clear Aligner [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Balance as of December 31, 2013	$82,926	$85,362	$61,623
Adjustments	'	'	-34	[1]
Balance as of September 30, 2014	$82,926	$85,362	$61,589
[1]	The adjustments to goodwill during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 were due to foreign currency translation.

Intangible_Assets_as_Direct_Re

Intangible Assets as Direct Result from Cadent Acquisition (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Gross Carrying Amount, beginning balance	$53,485	$53,485
Accumulated Amortization	-12,890	-10,488
Accumulated Impairment Loss	-19,258	-19,258
Net Carrying Value, ending balance	21,337	23,739
Trademarks	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Weighted Average Amortization Period (in years)	'15 years	'15 years
Gross Carrying Amount, beginning balance	7,100	7,100
Accumulated Amortization	-1,319	-1,100
Accumulated Impairment Loss	-4,179	-4,179
Net Carrying Value, ending balance	1,602	1,821
Existing technology	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Weighted Average Amortization Period (in years)	'13 years	'13 years
Gross Carrying Amount, beginning balance	12,600	12,600
Accumulated Amortization	-2,873	-2,236
Accumulated Impairment Loss	-4,328	-4,328
Net Carrying Value, ending balance	5,399	6,036
Customer relationships	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Weighted Average Amortization Period (in years)	'11 years	'11 years
Gross Carrying Amount, beginning balance	33,500	33,500
Accumulated Amortization	-8,630	-7,112
Accumulated Impairment Loss	-10,751	-10,751
Net Carrying Value, ending balance	14,119	15,637
Other	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Weighted Average Amortization Period (in years)	'8 years	'8 years
Gross Carrying Amount, beginning balance	285	285
Accumulated Amortization	-68	-40
Accumulated Impairment Loss	0	0
Net Carrying Value, ending balance	$217	$245

Total_Estimated_Annual_Future_

Total Estimated Annual Future Amortization Expense for Acquired Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Disclosure Total Estimated Annual Future Amortization Expense For Acquired Intangible Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Remainder of 2014	$649	'
2015	2,600	'
2016	2,600	'
2017	2,600	'
2018	2,600	'
Thereafter	10,288	'
Net Carrying Value, ending balance	$21,337	$23,739

Goodwill_and_Longlived_Assets_1

Goodwill and Long-lived Assets Impairment of goodwill (Details) (USD $)	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Goodwill [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Impairment of goodwill	'	$0	$0	$40,693,000	$0	$40,693,000
Impairment of long-lived assets	26,300,000	0	0	'	0	26,320,000
Scanners and CAD/CAM Services	'	'	'	'	'	'
Goodwill [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Impairment of long-lived assets	19,300,000	'	'	'	'	'
Property, Plant, Equipment [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Goodwill [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Impairment of fixed assets	$7,000,000	'	'	'	'	'

Credit_Facilities_Additional_I

Credit Facilities - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 22, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Mar. 22, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Mar. 22, 2013
		Revolving Credit Facility [Member]	Revolving Credit Facility [Member]	Letter of Credit [Member]	Letter of Credit [Member]
		Wells Fargo [Member]	Wells Fargo [Member]	Wells Fargo [Member]	Wells Fargo [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Line of credit, available borrowings	'	'	$50	'	$10
Unrestricted Cash Deposit	'	50	'	'	'
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	1.75%	'	'	'	'
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding	'	'	'	$0	'

Minimum_Future_Lease_Payments_

Minimum Future Lease Payments for Non-Cancelable Leases (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Disclosure Minimum Future Lease Payments For Non Cancelable Leases [Abstract]	'
Remainder of 2014	$2,282
2015	8,480
2016	7,690
2017	4,346
2018	1,490
Thereafter	437
Total minimum lease payments	$24,725

Stockbased_Compensation_Additi

Stock-based Compensation - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014
Incentive Plan 2005	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Shares reserved for issuance	23,283,379
Amended And Restated 2005 Stock Incentive Plan	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Shares reserved for issuance	5,000,000
Employee Stock Purchase Plan 2010	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Maximum number of shares available	2,400,000
Number of shares remaining	1,363,827
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Total unamortized compensation cost	68.4
Weighted average period of total unamortized cost (in years)	'2 years 6 months
Market Performance Based Restricted Stock Units	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Total unamortized compensation cost	11.1
Weighted average period of total unamortized cost (in years)	'1 year 7 months 6 days
Market Performance Based Restricted Stock Units | Minimum	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Vesting period of granted market-performance based restricted stock units	'2 years
Market Performance Based Restricted Stock Units | Maximum	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Vesting period of granted market-performance based restricted stock units	'3 years
Percentage of market-performance based restricted stock units eligible to vest over the vesting period	150.00%
Stock Options	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Total unamortized compensation cost	0.3
Weighted average period of total unamortized cost (in years)	'6 months
Employee Stock Purchase Plan	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Total unamortized compensation cost	1.3
Weighted average period of total unamortized cost (in years)	'7 months 6 days

StockBased_Compensation_Expens

Stock-Based Compensation Expense Related to All Stock-Based Awards and Employee Stock Purchases (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation expense	$9,910	$7,590	$29,348	$21,265
Cost of net revenues	'	'	'	'
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation expense	867	664	2,648	1,881
Sales and marketing	'	'	'	'
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation expense	2,837	2,215	8,615	5,238
General and administrative	'	'	'	'
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation expense	4,544	3,687	13,133	11,170
Research and development	'	'	'	'
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation expense	$1,662	$1,024	$4,952	$2,976

Activity_Under_Stock_Option_Pl

Activity Under Stock Option Plans (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014
Number of Shares Underlying Stock Options	'
Outstanding as of December 31, 2013	1,321
Granted	0
Exercised	-598
Cancelled or expired	-4
Outstanding as of September 30, 2014	719
Vested and expected to vest at September 30, 2014	719
Exercisable at September 30, 2014	692
Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share	'
Outstanding as of December 31, 2013	$16.08
Exercised	$16.88
Cancelled or expired	$18.33
Outstanding as of September 30, 2014	$15.40
Vested and expected to vest at June 30, 2014 (usd per share)	$15.39
Exercisable at June 30, 2014 (usd per share)	$15.12
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	'
Outstanding as of September 30, 2014	'3 years 1 month 6 days
Vested and expected to vest at September 30, 2014	'3 years 1 month 6 days
Exercisable at September 30, 2014	'3 years 1 month 2 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value	'
Outstanding as of September 30, 2014	$26,098
Vested and expected to vest at September 30, 2014	26,085
Exercisable at September 30, 2014	$25,294

Summary_of_Nonvested_Shares_De

Summary of Nonvested Shares (Details) (Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)	'
Number of Shares Underlying RSUs	'
Nonvested as of December 31, 2013	2,044
Granted	958
Vested and released	-639
Forfeited	-144
Nonvested as of September 30, 2014	2,219
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	'
Nonvested as of December 31, 2013	$37,000
Granted	$54,000
Vested and released	$29,000
Forfeited	$37,000
Nonvested as of September 30, 2014	$41,930
Weighted Remaining Vesting Period	'
Nonvested as of September 30, 2014	'1 year 6 months 4 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value	'
Nonvested as of September 30, 2014	$114,662

Summary_of_MSU_Performance_Det

Summary of MSU Performance (Details) (Market Performance Based Restricted Stock Units, USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014
Market Performance Based Restricted Stock Units	'
Number of Shares Underlying MSUs	'
Nonvested as of December 31, 2013	307
Granted	243
Vested and released	-52
Forfeited	0
Nonvested as of September 30, 2014	498
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	'
Nonvested as of December 31, 2013	$32,000
Granted	$50,000
Vested and released	$22,000
Forfeited	$0
Nonvested as of September 30, 2014	$42,000
Weighted Average Remaining Vesting Period	'
Nonvested as of September 30, 2014	'1 year 7 months 17 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value	'
Nonvested as of September 30, 2014	$25,711

Stockbased_Compensation_Stockb

Stock-based Compensation Stock-based Compensation Employee Stock Purchase Plan (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Expected term (in years)	'1 year 3 months 18 days	'1 year 2 months 12 days	'1 year 2 months 12 days	'1 year 2 months 12 days
Expected volatility	35.80%	37.30%	38.80%	44.90%
Risk-free interest rate	0.24%	0.20%	0.20%	0.20%
Expected dividends	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Weighted average fair value at grant date (USD per Share)	$16.44	$13.84	$17.15	$11.70

Common_Stock_Repurchase_Progra1

Common Stock Repurchase Program - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended			3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 29, 2014	Apr. 28, 2014	Apr. 23, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014
Share Repurchases [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Repurchase of common stock, common stock authorized	'	'	$300	'	'
Stock repurchase program, authorized amount for next twelve months	'	'	100	'	'
Accelerated share repurchase, contracted amount of repurchase	'	70	'	'	'
Share Repurchase Program, Amount Paid	'	70	'	'	'
Accelerated Share Repurchase, Initial Delivery of Shares, Shares	'	1	'	'	'
Accelerated Share Repurchase Program, Final Delivery of Shares, Shares	0.4	'	'	'	'
Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares	'	'	'	0.1	'
Stock Repurchased During Period, Average Price Per Share	'	'	'	$54.22	'
Stock Repurchased During Period, Value	'	'	'	7.4	'
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount	'	'	'	'	222.6
Stock Expected to be Repurchased in next six months	'	'	'	'	$22.60
Accelerated Share Repurchase Program [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Share Repurchases [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired	1.4	'	'	'	'
Share Repurchases Price Paid Per Share	51.46	'	'	'	'

Accounting_for_Income_Taxes_Ad

Accounting for Income Taxes - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Provision for income taxes	$11,301,000	'	$7,376,000	'	$34,301,000	$18,542,000
Effective income tax rate, continuing operations	22.80%	'	17.60%	'	24.40%	45.90%
Effective income tax rate reconciliation, prior year income taxes, amount	'	'	'	'	1,800,000	'
Income tax expense (benefit), nondeductible expense, impairment losses, amount	'	'	'	40,700,000	'	'
Valuation allowance, deferred tax asset	35,400,000	'	'	'	35,400,000	'
Unrecognized tax benefits	31,100,000	'	'	'	31,100,000	'
Unrecognized tax benefits, decrease resulting from prior period tax positions	'	8,400,000	'	'	'	'
Tax holiday effect on diluted earnings per share	$0.09	'	$0.08	'	$0.28	$0.22
Foreign Tax Authority [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Foreign income tax rate	'	'	'	'	30.00%	'
Tax Holiday effect	$7,700,000	'	$6,100,000	'	$22,800,000	$18,000,000

Computation_of_Basic_and_Dilut

Computation of Basic and Diluted Net Profit Per Share Attributable to Common Stock (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Disclosure Computation Of Basic And Diluted Net Profit Per Share Attributable To Common Stock [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net income	$38,247	$34,537	$106,291	$21,874
Weighted-average common shares outstanding, basic	80,629	79,967	80,924	80,592
Dilutive effect of potential common stock	1,385	1,881	1,519	1,957
Total shares, diluted	82,014	81,848	82,443	82,549
Net income per share, basic	$0.47	$0.43	$1.31	$0.27
Net income per share, diluted	$0.47	$0.42	$1.29	$0.26

Segments_and_Geographical_Info2

Segments and Geographical Information - Additional Information (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
	segment
Disclosure Segments And Geographical Information Additional Information [Abstract]	'
Number of reportable segments	2

Segment_Information_Details

Segment Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014		Sep. 30, 2013		Sep. 30, 2014		Sep. 30, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Revenue	$189,876	[1]	$164,506	[1]	$563,053	[1]	$481,914	[1]
Gross profit	145,054		125,090		427,781		361,630
Clear Aligner [Member]	'		'		'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Gross profit	141,117		122,663		415,903		352,114
Invisalign Full [Member]	'		'		'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Revenue	147,583		125,169		432,874		361,328
Invisalign ExpressLite [Member]	'		'		'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Revenue	19,205		17,702		59,308		52,943
Invisalign Non-Case Revenues [Member]	'		'		'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Revenue	11,350		10,679		33,930		34,154
Scanners and CAD/CAM Services	'		'		'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Revenue	11,738		10,956		36,941		33,489
Gross profit	$3,937		$2,427		$11,878		$9,516
[1]	Net revenues are attributed to countries based on location of where revenue is recognized.

Net_Revenues_by_Geographic_Are

Net Revenues by Geographic Area (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014		Sep. 30, 2013		Sep. 30, 2014		Sep. 30, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Net revenues	$189,876	[1]	$164,506	[1]	$563,053	[1]	$481,914	[1]
United States	'		'		'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Net revenues	134,244	[1]	123,904	[1]	396,837	[1]	365,596	[1]
the Netherlands	'		'		'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Net revenues	35,878	[1]	26,494	[1]	118,401	[1]	86,049	[1]
Other international	'		'		'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Net revenues	$19,754	[1]	$14,108	[1]	$47,815	[1]	$30,269	[1]
[1]	Net revenues are attributed to countries based on location of where revenue is recognized.

LongLived_Assets_by_Geographic

Long-Lived Assets by Geographic Area (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'
Long-lived assets	$86,447	[1]	$75,743	[1]
United States	'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'
Long-lived assets	72,616	[1]	61,439	[1]
MEXICO	'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'
Long-lived assets	6,266		6,291
the Netherlands	'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'
Long-lived assets	1,067		1,630
Other international	'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'
Long-lived assets	$6,498	[1]	$6,383	[1]
[1]	Long-lived assets are attributed to countries based on entity that owns the asset.