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Mail-order companies seem like a good idea due to the inexpensive price tag but the truth is that they can be dangerous and costly.
The American Dental Association and The American Association of Orthodontists have released statements cautioning people from using mail-order companies. They state that realigning teeth is not an easy procedure, but rather one which needs to be supervised by trained medical professionals in order to ensure successful results. Experts also warn that using a mail-order service can result in tooth loss and other costly dental complications.
In addition to all of these pitfalls, if you are considering using mail-order aligners, you should be aware of the disadvantages of cheaper mail-order aligner trays. The type of trays mail-order companies use is not durable and can cause irritation and soreness in your gums, along with tooth damage and possible misalignment.
That’s why we offer Invisalign clear braces because they provide the most predictable outcome for patients who want to have a new smile.
What are Mail-Order Aligners?
Mail-order aligners are a type of dental braces that can be ordered and worn without having to go to a dentist or orthodontist. They are usually made of plastic or clear rubber and fit over the teeth like a mouthguard.
Mail-order aligners typically cost less than traditional braces, but they are not as effective at correcting alignment problems. They are also not as durable, and they may not fit as well as custom-made aligners.
What You Need to Know Before Buying Mail-Order Aligners
We want to equip you with the necessary information so that you can make an informed decision on whether or not to buy mail-order aligners. With this in mind, take the following into consideration before you order:
- You may need to pay extra for orthodontic x-rays, scans, or impressions. When visiting an orthodontist or dentist that provides Invisalign invisible braces, x-rays and scans will be a part of the service, usually at no additional cost to you. Mail-order companies may require that you send them your x-rays, and if they don’t, you should be worried.
- Mail-order companies CANNOT provide Orthodontic Acceleration. To receive the benefits of Acceleration, you need to visit a qualified dentist in person. In most cases, Acceleration can cut your treatment time from years to months!
- The impressions may be faulty. When you visit an orthodontist or dentist, impressions are taken by a qualified professional. Mail-order companies expect you to make impressions at home, which can lead to faulty aligners and serious tooth and jaw damage in the future. Creating molds takes experience and skill, and should be entrusted to a trained professional.
- Braces are not always the right solution for everyone. We provide a thorough oral exam before beginning any Invisalign braces treatment to make sure that we’re going about it the right way for you. If orthodontic issues are present, we may recommend different treatments based on your needs.
- You need periodic check-ins and new aligners as your teeth move. Mail order braces might be made all at once without any interim checks on tooth movement. Without regular checkups with an orthodontist or dentist, the aligner may lose its effectiveness and may move your teeth in an improper direction, causing damage to your jaw or teeth.
- Mail-order technology tends to be outdated. Mail-order braces are often outdated, but not with the Invisalign braces system. It is constantly being improved while other mail-orders use lower quality materials that have been off-patent for a long time.
- Mail-order trays can be a costly mistake. Because mail order trays seem so much less expensive than traditional treatment options, you might be lulled into a false sense of security that all will turn out fine – until it’s not! The expense will quickly accumulate as problems caused by mail-orders, like misalignment of teeth, end up needing costly corrective treatments.
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The Dangers of Mail-Order Aligners
As you can see, there are a number of dangers associated with mail-order aligners. If you are thinking about purchasing them, please keep the following in mind:
- You may need to pay extra for orthodontic x-rays, scans, or impressions.
- Mail-order companies cannot provide Orthodontic Acceleration.
- The impressions may be faulty.
- Braces are not always the right solution for everyone.
- You need periodic check-ins and new aligners as your teeth move.
- Mail order technology is often outdated.
- Mail order trays can be a costly mistake.
The Pros And Cons of Mail-Order Aligners
The main benefit of mail-order aligners is that they are less expensive, on the surface. But if you consider all of the above, there may actually be more downsides to mail-order braces than upsides! For example, if the impressions are faulty, you will have to pay for new ones. If your teeth are misaligned and require corrective treatment after mail-order aligners, that can be extremely costly! And finally, if something goes wrong during your orthodontic treatment with mail-order aligners, you won’t have an orthodontist or dentist on-hand to help you fix the problem – it could be very costly and time-consuming to try to do so yourself.
In conclusion, if you are thinking about getting braces, please visit a qualified orthodontist or dentist in person. Invisalign braces are an excellent option for many people, but they may not be right for everyone. We provide a thorough oral exam before beginning any Invisalign braces treatment to make sure that we’re going about it the right way for you. If orthodontic issues are present, we may recommend different treatments based on your needs.
Are Mail-Order Aligners Worth it?
No— but don’t just take our word for it. The Better Business Bureau has received over 2,600 complaints from customers who have been unhappy with the results of their mail-order braces.
Here are several news reports on the dangers of mail-order aligners.
NBC News – Smile Direct Club Patients Report Painful Problems
New York Times – Smile Direct Club Customer Dissatisfaction
The Hill – Tooth Straightening at Home Poses Serious Risks
Mail-order aligners are a bad idea, but Invisalign clear braces from East Mahogany Dental will get your teeth straighter than ever without any of the hassle or risk of mail-order aligners.
We can show you a virtual simulation of your new smile, and answer any questions you may have about the timeline or cost.
Invisalign Vs. Mail-Order Aligners: The Key Important Differences
Invisalign braces are a clear alternative to metal braces and work just as well for most people. They offer all the benefits of traditional braces – such as straight teeth and an improved smile.
Some key differences between Invisalign and mail-order aligners:
- Invisalign treatments require periodic check-ins and new aligners as your teeth move.
- With Invisalign, you will have to go in for a consultation, take impressions of your teeth, and get fitted with custom-made aligners every few weeks or months depending on how much movement needs to happen before the next set can be made.
- Invisalign braces are clear plastic trays that fit over top of your teeth.
- Mail-order aligners are typically a series of clear plastic trays that fit over the top of your teeth, which you will have to make yourself using impressions taken from your teeth. Monitoring is minimal and they are less effective.
- Invisalign braces can be removed for eating and brushing.
- Mail-order aligners can be uncomfortable – they often cause pain and soreness in the teeth and gums.
As you can see, there are several key differences between Invisalign braces and mail-order aligners. If you’re looking for a safe, reliable way to get your teeth straightened, Invisalign is a clear choice!
In saying that, Invisalign braces are an excellent option for many people, but they may not be right for everyone. We provide a thorough oral exam before beginning any Invisalign treatment to make sure Invisalign is right for you.
The Advantages of Getting Invisalign With A Dentist
With a dentist, you get accurate materials and impressions, orthodontic acceleration, regular check-ins, and new aligners as your teeth move. You also have the benefit of a real person to help you with any problems that may arise during treatment.
East Mahogany Dental is proud to offer Invisalign braces to our patients in Alberta. If you’re still not sure, we offer a free consultation so you can ask all the questions you have and make an informed decision.
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Some people turn to mail-order aligners and are hesitant to pursue Invisalign because they think that it is expensive or time-consuming. We offer affordable payment options and convenient treatment times with our dental office.
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