In today’s culture of instant results, many seek a convenient way to achieve straighter teeth without orthodontist visits. Enter mail-in aligners, a popular solution. While their simplicity is enticing, studies and experts caution they’re often ineffective and risky. Professional organizations have openly advised against them. Here are five key dangers to consider if you’re thinking about using mail-in clear aligners.
1.) Your Oral Health Isn’t Examined Before Treatment
Mail-in braces involve taking your own teeth impression and sending it back for aligner creation, supposedly reviewed by a dental professional. However, these molds may miss issues like decay and gum disease, posing risks during treatment. Orthodontists, with their specialized training, ensure safe and effective teeth straightening.
2.) There’s No Supervision as Your Teeth Are Straightened
With mail-in aligners, who do you contact for questions? How can you ensure your treatment stays on track? In professional orthodontics like Invisalign, your orthodontist monitors your progress, addressing questions or concerns more effectively than a customer service line for mail-in aligners.
3.) Your Treatment Isn’t Tailored or Adjusted to You
Without regular orthodontist checkups, your treatment plan can’t be modified as needed. If issues arise or teeth don’t align as expected, there’s no one to adjust your treatment. By seeing an orthodontist, they can evaluate your progress and make necessary adjustments to ensure you’re on track to a straighter smile.
4.) Mail-In Aligners Could End Up Costing You More
While many choose mail-in aligners for perceived time and cost savings, the reality often falls short. Without professional orthodontic guidance, there’s a risk of worsening teeth or bite issues. Ineffective treatment could lead to wasted time and money, necessitating further correction of problems caused by mail-in aligners.
5.) You Could Accidentally Destroy Your Teeth
Orthodontic treatment demands skilled precision as it not only shifts teeth but also permanently alters jawbone shape and bite alignment. Improper adjustments can lead to root fractures, gum recession, jawbone decay, and other severe, costly complications. Only treatment under a licensed orthodontist ensures a straighter smile while steering clear of these concerns.
Don’t risk your smile’s health by attempting DIY improvements. For a quick, affordable, and convenient teeth-straightening solution, consult your orthodontist about Invisalign!
About the Author
From the time that Dr. Leeza Stein started her training at the Texas A&M College of Dentistry, she has prioritized obtaining as much knowledge to help her patients, no matter their needs. As a result, she is familiar with many fields in dentistry, including endodontic (root canal treatment), Invisalign, and treatment planning, and she works with implant specialists in the area that have proven their excellence to ensure success for her patients. Would you like to discuss dental implants or other services with Dr. Stein? Contact LS Smiles online or call the Rockwall office at 972-771-2213 to schedule an appointment.