The commercials and social media ads for mail-order clear aligners focus on one thing: the price. As a result, many patients are drawn in. After all, who wouldn’t want to get professional treatment for a fraction of the cost? Unfortunately, the risks behind these products aren’t discussed, which can result in a lot of stress as well as a financial burden down the line. With this in mind, keep reading to learn the dangers of mail-order clear aligners.
Danger #1: No Comprehensive Exam
In short, clear aligners aren’t for everyone. For example, if you have severe misalignment or an existing oral health condition (like gum disease), then you won’t be a candidate for clear aligner treatment upfront. Since mail-order braces skip the comprehensive exam, many patients with issues like these are given the green light to start treatment, which can result in everything from worsened misalignment to loose teeth. That’s why professional orthodontic treatments never skip this step – it’s essential for the look, function, and health of your smile!
Danger #2: DIY Impressions
Each tray is custom-made to fit you perfectly and move your teeth precisely. That’s one of the many reasons your initial impressions are so important! Sadly, mail-order aligners require you to do them yourself, which can be difficult and lead to inaccurate impressions. This is one of the many reasons professional organizations like the American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists have voiced their distaste for these products.
Danger #3: Lack of Supervision from Trained Professionals
Throughout your clear aligner treatment, you need to have in-person visits with a licensed dental professional. That way, they can ensure your teeth are tracking properly, ensure no oral health problems have developed, and make adjustments to your treatment as needed. Unfortunately, this is another part of the process that mail-order aligner companies skip altogether, which can lead to numerous complications that are stressful to handle and costly to correct.
Danger #4: Nowhere to Turn If Something Goes Wrong
From your teeth not tracking properly to an aligner not fitting correctly, things may not always go to plan during your teeth-straightening journey. Fortunately, if you chose a professional clear aligner company that’s provided by a licensed dentist, you can confidently no where to turn to get back on-track with your treatment plan. Of course, the same cannot be said for mail-order alternatives. Many of their patients are left in the dark on where to turn when their teeth are moving in the wrong direction, their teeth feel loose, and other complications arise.
About the Practice
Seahurst Park Dentistry is proud to have a highly experienced dentist leading our team, Dr. Thomas. He earned his dental doctorate at the University of Pittsburgh before completing an AEGD Residency at the Maricopa Institute of Health Services Hospital in Phoenix. Ever since, he’s been helping patients achieve healthy, beautiful, and functional smiles. If you have a question about clear aligner treatment or you’d like to schedule an appointment to find out if you’re a candidate, visit our website or call (206) 244-4622.
