Many patients of Birmingham Center for Cosmetic Dentistry come to us searching for a solution to crooked or gapped teeth. And some patients have questions about Invisalign and how it compares to relatively new at-home teeth straightening options such as Smile Direct Club.
We are always here to help patients evaluate their best treatment options, so keep reading to learn more on this topic.
Is straightening your teeth by mail worth it?
Both Invisalign and Smile Direct Club are teeth straightening options that utilize clear aligners to shift teeth over time. And while the aligners are relatively similar, the treatment delivery differs vastly.
One major advantage of Invisalign is professional, in-person care.
With Invisalign, Dr. Milan provides you with an in-depth consultation to draw up your treatment plan. Digital scans are taken and regular appointments throughout the months of your treatment ensure proper progress or identify if any adjustment may need to be made along the way.
On the contrast, Smile Direct Club’s at-home option does not offer in-person dental checkups. Patients have an option to use an at-home digital scan kit prior to treatment or to go to a SmileShop for an impressions scan. A dentist remotely approves treatment and provides a treatment plan with remote checkups.
Treatment time for both options depends on each patient’s unique case and how well he or she adheres to the plan of treatment. In general, under a dentist’s direct supervision, Invisalign can treat a host of issues, including complex cases. In-office visits, rather than remote appointments, are more thorough and help to identify any possible complications. This can result in a treatment time that is shorter in the long run.
Truth be told, Smile Direct Club is designed for those who simply need a few small teeth adjustments or those who once had braces but whose teeth have shifted from neglecting to wear a retainer. And this self-treatment can actually cause harm to some, rather than provide solutions, according to several organizations.
Various reports have pointed to questions regarding both the at-home teeth straightening treatment’s efficacy and safety. In fact, a variety of organizations, including the American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontics filed complaints alleging the dangers of the treatment, including the company cutting corners on orthodontic practices and its patients requiring emergency dental treatment as a result.
The verdict? It is best to use caution when making your decision on teeth straightening procedures and it is clear that remote dental appointments are no match for regular, in-person dental visits.
Invisalign in Birmingham, MI
If you are searching for an expert dentist for straightening your teeth, Dr. Milan is here for you.
As a leader in dentistry and cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Mitchell Milan offers the height of dental care, no matter the issue.
Known for providing exceptional results along with compassionate care, Dr. Milan blends both the artistry and science of dentistry in his work. To him, there is no greater reward than restoring someone’s oral health and confidence. After all, oral health is directly related to overall wellness…and a beautiful smile is key to positive self-concept.
If you’d like to explore Invisalign or any other cosmetic dental procedure, call us for your consultation. We want to give you the smile and the confidence you deserve!