If you’re reading this post, then you’ve probably seen advertisements for the product Smile Direct Club. This is a service that’s been aggressively promoted across social media platforms, claiming the benefits of orthodontic treatment for a reduced price.
The product itself looks and works similar to Invisalign. A series of clear, plastic trays are worn over your teeth, slowly pushing them into proper alignment. Rather than going into an orthodontist’s office, you receive an impression kit in the mail. Alternatively, there are some kiosks and outlet locations available for in-person impressions in select cities.
Regardless, you make your impression, it gets sent in, and then you receive your trays at the appropriate intervals. The question most ask is…
Does Smile Direct Actually Work?
It’s hard to give a straightforward answer to that question. Will it make your teeth appear to be more aligned than before? Most likely, yes. However, there’s more to orthodontics than that.
Orthodontic treatment is a strategic process. Braces and Invisalign are worn and adjusted over a year+ period because your body needs to adjust to the movement of your teeth. If this is done improperly or too quickly, you can experience a number of problems, and your bite can actually become worse.
Smile Direct uses trays that are lower quality than Invisalign which often moves your teeth too quickly. Because you aren’t regularly observed by a professional, you don’t actually know if your teeth are moving properly.
Orthodontic plans often require their timelines to be adjusted as the treatment unfolds. With Smile Direct, this doesn’t happen, which means your teeth likely aren’t be aligned properly. Not only could you experience excess discomfort during the treatment but afterwards as well.
Teeth that have undergone orthodontic treatment are prone to returning to their original state once you’re done with Invisalign or Braces. Because Smile Direct often moves your teeth too aggressively, your teeth face a greater risk of reverting back to their previous position.
While a retainer can help hold them in alignment, you’ll likely feel pulling and agitation.
The Orthodontic Difference
With an orthodontist, you are treated as an individual rather than being given a “one-size-fits-all” solution. Clear aligners are a great option for many, but it’s not always the best route to go. Others ultimately choose bracket braces because it works better for their needs.
Smile Direct doesn’t offer choices. The only way to discover and access your full options is to visit an orthodontist. Once you start your treatment, your orthodontist will continue to monitor your situation, ensuring that you’re on course.
If adjustments need to be made, they’ll inform you of what’s going on, and you will proceed from there. The end result is a happy and healthy mouth through a pain-free treatment.
For professional orthodontics treatment in Beavercreek, Ohio and the surrounding communities, contact Dhingra Orthodontics today.
