Since 2014, do-it-yourself orthodontic treatments like SmileDirectClub, Smile Love, Snap Correct, etc. are becoming more and more popular. If you are considering getting orthodontic treatment and are looking at some of the above options, we have some points we want you to consider before making a final decision.
1. Is there an orthodontist or dentist supervising your treatment?
This is very important because orthodontists are trained and focus their practices to only moving teeth and aligning jaws. Just like you trust your heart to your cardiologist, your skin to your dermatologist, orthodontists dedicated additional years to study orthodontics. You should also know the name of the orthodontist or dentist who supervises your treatment from these companies.
2. Does treatment include diagnostic records (Ex. clinical examination and/or X-rays)?
Generally these records are read and analyzed first. Then your treatment plan is formulated before any movement of your teeth are performed. Are you comfortable if these are not included in your treatment?
3. Are your teeth and gums healthy and strong enough for orthodontic treatment?
There is more than meets the eye then just the tip of the toothberg. If there are no x rays taken, how will you know if the root of the tooth is in a position to be straightened? Who is making this decision for you?
4. Are there any other treatment options for your case?
If there are, do you know what option is best for you and why?
5. Does your treatment include in-person visits to a licensed orthodontist’s office?
Is the person who supervises your treatment a licensed orthodontist?
6. Are you informed of possible risks associated with your specific
orthodontic treatment?
7. Who is monitoring your treatment?
Is it you or an orthodontist? or is it you and only you?
8. If there is any emergency or problem come up, is there an orthodontist you can see?
If there is, who will cover the cost for the emergency visit?
9. When finished the DIY orthodontic treatment, how are your teeth
being retained?
Do you receive an essix retainer in the end? It is important that you know what kind of retention plan is best for you. What retainers are you getting? Who will check your retainers in years to come? If there is no retention plan, your teeth could shift over time and you’ll be looking at additional orthodontic treatment.
Overall, if you are looking for a discrete way to go about straightening your teeth, we recommend you contact us for a consultation about starting Invisalign. This way you will receive the best of both worlds with correcting your smile but with the guidance from a professional the whole way through.
