Crooked teeth are something that many people want to fix. They want to get a healthier alignment that they love, but people worry about the financial aspect of it. After looking online, you may have seen mail-order aligners as an Invisalign alternative in Shelby Township. However, their lower price point comes with several catches. Keep reading to learn four dangers of them that can help you lean toward the real deal.
1.) You Don’t Get a Consultation
When you visit your dentist for orthodontic treatment, they start with a consultation to catch any oral health issues that can spell trouble. However, this vital part of the process is skipped with mail-order aligners! Instead, those with active tooth decay, gum disease, and other serious problems are told they are candidates. This is bad news because there may be complications as a result, such as tooth loss.
2.) Relies on DIY Impressions
Your clear aligners rely on a customized fit to ensure they’re snug. Your dentist will take a digital impression that captures a 3D model of your mouth. However, mail-order aligner companies don’t do this to help them cut costs. Instead, they’ll have you take your own impressions. It might seem easy enough, but it’s hard to get right. If they are inaccurate, then they will cause problems later.
3.) No Professional Supervision from a Dentist
An unfortunate truth about these companies is that you aren’t seen by a licensed dental professional! Since this is the case, you won’t be able to feel confident knowing your smile isn’t turning into an aesthetic, healthy alignment. There have been some cases where people’s teeth are in worse shape when they finish their mail-order aligners. In fact, many organizations, such as the American Dental Association, urge patients to avoid these Invisalign alternatives.
4.) You’re Left on Your Own
Probably one of the biggest downsides of choosing these companies is that you will have no one you can call for help. While your teeth are shifting, there is a chance that they don’t move how they are supposed to. Instead of being able to visit your dentist and get it corrected before it gets worse, you won’t have anyone who can help you get back on track. Many people end up visiting their provider to get the real Invisalign treatment they need.
While mail-order aligners can be cheaper, it’s not worth spending your hard-earned cash on them. Talk to your dentist for the straighter smile you want; that way, you can trust your financial investment is in good hands that look out for you and your oral health.
About the Practice
At Smiles in Shelby, you benefit from the skilled leadership of Dr. Shawn Van de Vyver and Dr. Erin Leppek. We understand how a misaligned grin can leave you wanting more, so we are proud to offer Invisalign as a reliable solution. By staying with you throughout your orthodontic journey, we can keep it on track and make sure it becomes a healthy bite you love. If you are interested in clear aligners, schedule an appointment or call our office at (586) 677-2828.