If you’ve watched TV or been on social media recently, you’ve seen ads by SmileDirectClub and other mail-order braces. The latest smile-straightening gimmick claims to safely and effectively move your teeth using clear aligners that mimic the reputable Invisalign treatment. This can seem like the ideal solution, but will you actually get the smile of your dreams? Believe it or not, there are some pretty significant differences between SmileDirect and Invisalign in Lovell. Depending on the system you choose, you could enjoy lasting results or potentially serious dental complications.
SmileDirectClub VS Invisalign
Both systems use clear aligners to apply continual pressure to the teeth to gradually move them into position. At first glance, they may seem identical, but there’s a big difference between the two.
SmileDirectClub uses a direct-to-customer method to align a patient’s teeth. Essentially, you take an impression of your mouth at home, which is sent to the Nashville-based company. They then create a series of aligners to move your teeth into position on your own.
When choosing Invisalign, your entire treatment is provided, administered, and monitored by a dentist or orthodontist. They take a digital impression of your mouth, which integrates with elite software to fabricate your custom-made aligners. They monitor the movement of your teeth during your treatment to ensure you’re on track and there aren’t any complications.
Which is the Best Option?
If you want a discreet solution to fix your orthodontic issues, clear aligners can be the ideal choice. They can correct a variety of bite and alignment problems, but they aren’t right for everyone. It’s important to have a thorough consultation to ensure you’re a candidate for them.
Unfortunately, if you choose SmileDirect, you don’t undergo the same consultation process to check your oral health. This can leave potential complications undetected, which can lead to a big problem down the road, like infections or cavities.
Throughout your treatment, you’re essentially unmonitored with SmileDirect. There’s no one to intervene if there’s an issue. Although you’ve seen the results the system can provide, what you don’t see are the horror stories that might also occur.
There are accounts of patients who are left with misaligned bites, sometimes so severe they can no longer close their mouth fully or chew. Other patients have been left with mouth lacerations from the aligners being too tight, infections, and even loss of teeth.
If you had your heart set on clear aligners, you’re not out of options. You can invest in a straight smile using a sophisticated solution that’s FDA-approved. From start-to-finish, you’re under the care of a licensed dentist or orthodontist to ensure you safely and effectively achieve the results you want when choosing Invisalign.
If you’re ready for a straight smile, skip the risk and schedule a consultation with your dentist today!
About Dr. Lance Anderson
Dr. Lance Anderson is more than just a general dentist. He has also undergone advanced training in many areas of specialty care, including endodontics, dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, and Invisalign. He’ll help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile using personalized solutions. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.