Thanks to aligner technology, getting a straighter smile has never been easier. As a result, multiple manufacturers are getting in on the action, developing clear aligner systems to help patients, and doing everything they can to stand out from the competition. If you’ve been eyeing Invisalign because of it’s long history of successful treatment, but feel allured by the convenience of Smile Direct Club, it’s important that you recognize both of their differences before making your investment! Here are the most important points to keep in mind during your search for at-home aligners.
Key Differences Between Invisalign and Smile Direct Club
While both services are specifically designed to shift teeth using a series of clear aligners, the way that they are prescribed is significantly different. While Invisalign requires regular checkups with a dentist in-person, Smile Direct Club utilizes remote teledentistry to sell directly to consumers. This means that Smile Direct Club cuts out the dentist or orthodontist entirely, allowing the patient themselves to manage their care more independently. While Smile Direct Club does employ licensed dentists and orthodontists, they perform zero direct interaction with their patients.
Additionally, Smile Direct Club is cheaper and takes less time to complete than Invisalign. In a way, Smile Direct Club is giving the culture of “buying everything online” an outlet for clear aligner technology. However, there are some significant drawbacks to pursuing treatment in this way.
Consumer Alerts By the American Association of Orthodontists
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) is largely concerned with Smile Direct Club for a number of reasons, so much so that they issued a consumer alert. This is essentially meant to make patients consider the risks and rewards of choosing a product like Smile Direct Club. For example, they note:
- How do you know if your teeth and gums are healthy enough for treatment without seeing a doctor directly?
- How do you know if Smile Direct Club is right for your specific needs?
- Are you prepared to be solely responsible for your treatment?
- Is there anything you can do if the trays don’t work as intended?
- Who are you going to be able to contact if problems do arise?
On top of that, the AAO has issued complaints in 36 states due to violations of dental-practice statutes by Smile Direct Club. In the complaints, they note that dental practices like these need to be done under supervision of a dental professional.
Why Seeing a Medical Professional Matters
When you have a dental professional by your side through Invisalign, you’re getting:
- A clear aligner technology that’s been clinically proven to straighten teeth
- A company that has over 20 years of experience in the field
- A dedicated relationship working with a dentist that cares about your success
- A professional’s trained eye to manage problems during treatment if they appear (rather than solely a computer)
- A chance to work with a person with proven credentials in the medical field
- A more detailed treatment plan that takes your tooth’s roots into account, not just the position of your teeth (which is crucial to a successful treatment outcome)
If you’re considering clear aligner technology, Invisalign just may be the better option in the long-term. To get started in your smile journey, schedule an appointment with a dentist today!
About the Author
Dr. Luke Lumpkin has over a decade of experience practicing dentistry and helping patients fulfil a myriad of dental needs. Whether they be through routine preventive checkups and cleanings or long-term treatments like Invisalign, he’s dedicated to building a relationship with you every step of the way so your realignment goes smoothly and successfully. To schedule an appointment, you can contact him through his website.