SmileDirectClub and other DIY teledentistry companies offering clear aligners to straighten your teeth at home aren’t as inexpensive as effective as you may think. They actually come with more downsides than advertisements lead you to believe. To explain some of the drawbacks of DIY aligners, here are five reasons why Invisalign in Oakton is well worth the investment.
#1. Dental Organization Approval
All major professional dental organizations recommend Invisalign. The same can’t be said for SmileDirectClub. In fact, the American Dental Association strongly discourages DIY orthodontics and has filed a complaint specifically against SmileDirectClub. Additionally, the American Association of Orthodontists issued a warning for them and all other direct-to-consumer orthodontic companies.
#2. Overall Cost
Though SmileDirectClub starts at around $2,000, that doesn’t account for potential complications. On the other hand, Invisalign starts at around $5,000, but this usually includes dental visits and monitoring during treatment. There are also no hidden costs associated with Invisalign treatment. Combined with its guaranteed results and clear expectations, Invisalign is likely to provide better overall value.
#3. Complex Orthodontic Cases
To their credit, SmileDirectClub does explicitly tell customers not to use their aligners if they have a history of bad oral health or need extensive treatment. Even so, Invisalign has been around since 1997, nearly two decades longer than SmileDirectClub, and the aligners and other products can be used to treat way more cases of misalignment.
#4. Dentist Supervision
SmileDirectClub relies on patients sending them photos and updates on their treatment, which puts the patient at a disadvantage since it’s more difficult to identify problems and make adjustments. Invisalign offers patients in-office visits throughout their treatment. This makes it quicker and easier for their dentist to notice changes or unwelcome developments so they can fix them promptly.
#5. Convenience and Treatment Times
SmileDirectClub cuts out in-person checkups. This saves patients time throughout their treatment. With that being said, they will still have to attend remote checkups. Invisalign treats more complex issues, which usually makes treatment times take longer. But, since Invisalign’s in-office checkups are more thorough, patients may actually experience shorter overall treatment times.
SmileDirectClub or other DIY clear aligner companies may seem tempting, but the guaranteed results and supervision associated with Invisalign mean you’re sure to get your money’s worth. Make sure to follow your dentist’s instructions throughout treatment, and you’ll soon be on your way to a smile you’ll be excited to show off!
About the Author
Oakton Dentistry by Design is home to two dedicated dentists and a knowledgeable team of oral health professionals. They strive to provide the best care around to residents of Oakton and nearby communities. Dr. Joseph Khalil and Dr. Pasquale Giordano have years of experience and can help you use Invisalign to achieve a straighter, more uniform smile you’ll be proud of. Patients of all ages can rest assured that their care is in good hands. Visit their website or call their office at (703) 938-4300 for more information on if Invisalign is right for you or to schedule an appointment.