The Downside of Mail-In Clear Aligners: 5 Risks You Shouldn’t Overlook

With the rise of misinformation in all circles of healthcare, many patients don’t know how to protect themselves. One of the latest offenders? Mail-in clear aligners that supposedly straighten your teeth like Invisalign and SureSmile, but without visits to the dentist. If that seems too good to be true, that’s because it is.

Below are some of the dangers of mail-in aligners and why you should only trust your dentist for orthodontic treatments.

1. Lack of Professional Involvement

One of the most significant drawbacks of mail-in clear aligners is the absence of professional oversight. While the ability to straighten your teeth without a dentist is touted as a strength, it’s a huge weakness.

With professional orthodontic treatment through Invisalign or SureSmile, a qualified dentist checks your progress to ensure the best results. In contrast, mail-in aligner companies usually provide little supervision, relying on self-reported progress photos and video calls.

2. Bad Diagnosis and Planning

Without an in-person consultation and dental examination, mail-in clear aligner companies may overlook underlying dental issues. Unseen issues can affect the success of your treatment and lead to more serious problems.

This is why it’s so important to see a trained dentist when considering any type of treatment, especially orthodontics. 

3. Potential for Harmful Effects

Aligners that don’t fit correctly and incorrect treatment progression can severely affect your oral health. Gum irritation, tooth loss, and gum recession are good examples of problems that customers of mail-in clear aligners have reported. Many have joined in class action lawsuits against companies like SmileDirectClub which has recently filed for bankruptcy.

4. Limited Accountability and Support

In case of complications or dissatisfaction with your treatment, mail-in clear aligner companies may offer limited accountability and support. With traditional orthodontics, you have direct access to your dentist for guidance and assistance. However, mail-in aligner companies often limit communication to online platforms or customer service representatives.

This lack of personalized care and support can leave patients feeling isolated and uncertain about their treatment progress.

While it may appear that mail-in aligners offer convenience and cost savings, they come with risks that shouldn’t be overlooked. Before choosing this option, be sure to weigh the potential shortcomings against the benefits. You should also consult with a qualified dentist to explore other treatment options that prioritize your oral health. Protect your smile and call today!

About the Practice

If you’re ready to ditch the mail-in aligners and see what real dentists can do, come to On Point Dentistry. There, Dr. Caballeros and Dr. Parra will introduce you to Invisalign and SureSmile aligners which both have proven results you can be proud of. Call (469) 476-4092 to schedule an Invisalign consultation or visit the website to explore other treatments they provide.