Mail-in clear aligners have become more popular as patients try to treat themselves from home. Many consider them to be a convenient option for orthodontic treatment without frequent visits to the dentist. However, while achieving a straighter smile from the comfort of your home sounds good, there are several risks involved.
If you’re curious about the dangers associated with mail-in clear aligners, continue reading. You’ll learn that your options should be carefully considered before deciding.
Lack of Professional Involvement
One of the primary dangers of mail-in clear aligners is the lack of professional supervision throughout the treatment process. Unlike traditional orthodontic treatments overseen by trained dentists, mail-in aligner companies often provide treatment plans without the direct involvement of a dental professional. This can lead to suboptimal results and potential oral health complications.
Inaccurate Assessments
When beginning mail-in aligners, patients usually take their own dental impressions at home using kits provided by the company. However, without the expertise of a trained dentist, there is a risk of inaccuracies. This can compromise the fit and effectiveness of the aligner, leading to poor fit and inadequate results.
Dental Health Risks
Mail-in clear aligners that don’t fit properly can pose serious health risks. In some cases, they can cause irreversible damage to tooth enamel, and increase the risk of gum disease and jaw joint disorders. Without professional guidance, patients may not catch or receive treatment for these potential complications.
Limited Treatment Options
Mail-in clear aligner companies often offer a one-size-fits-all approach to orthodontic treatment. Any professional dentist will tell you that this isn’t ideal. These limited treatment options simply can’t address the unique needs of individual patients. This means that you’ll end your treatment with results that don’t match your desires, which can be heartbreaking.
So, while mail-in clear aligners seem like they offer convenience and affordability, they pose risks that are sometimes not obvious. In the end, you may be paying more to have your dentist fix what the mail-in aligners broke! Before you click the buy now button, pick up your phone and call your dentist. They’ll guide you to a better option for a straighter smile.
About the Practice
If you’re looking for skilled dentists to help you achieve the smile of your dreams, Dr. Rachel M. Beamer and Dr. Daliah Salem can help. At Turning Leaf Dental, they offer Invisalign clear aligners that have been proven to create jaw-dropping smiles. Call (617) 536-5182 to schedule an Invisalign consultation or visit the website to explore the other services they offer.