DIY Teeth Straightening with Clear Aligners
Clear aligner treatment is changing the way orthodontics is being practiced.
There are several companies in Australia that are changing the way people receive orthodontic treatment. They offer clear aligner treatment at a competitive price because apart from the first initial visit, they have removed a dentist/orthodontist overseeing treatment. A lot people want Invisalign treatment, but can’t afford it, so these companies are offering a cheap Invisalign alternative. I’m also seeing more and more social media influencers taking up these treatments, so it’s definitely starting to get more mainstream.
In other words, they’ve removed the human aspect, and treatment is purely monitored by the patient themselves. This could be appealing to those who work overseas or offshore, or travel a lot, or those that just don’t want to go to the dentist’s office! Regardless of the reason, I would be curious to know how these companies deal with issues when the treatment doesn’t go to plan (and would they even know about it!?)
Two of the main players in this new field of DIY teeth straightening with clear aligners are WonderSmile and Smile Direct Club.
So what’s the difference between WonderSmile and Smile Direct Club anyway?
1. WonderSmile is another ‘brand’ of clear aligner therapy. You see a certified dentist closest to you (there is only one in Perth right now). You get checked if you are suitable, if you are, and want to proceed, you get a 3D scan done. They then ship you your aligners and leave you to it.
My concern is that WonderSmile does not offer any type of checking procedures during the treatment process. They do say that most treatment time is 6-9 months so perhaps this minimises the chances of things going wrong. As far as I can see, the only time a possible problem could be flagged is by the patient. Unfortunately most patients probably haven’t studied orthodontics so they may not realise there is a problem.
The WonderSmile clinic in Perth is also a general dentist, not an orthodontist.
2. Smile Direct Club. Their aim is to make orthodontic treatment so accessible via SmileShops in shopping centres. They are basically removing dentist visits entirely. Considering most people don’t like going to dental practices, and some even get anxiety or have a phobia, this is clever marketing. If you are really averse to going out altogether, you can even purchase your own impression kit, so you don’t even need to attend the SmileShop for a scan. They use Invisalign clear aligners.
Once you start your treatment, the only way it is monitored is by uploading photos. You are otherwise left to your own devices.
The other main difference between treatment offered by Smile Direct Club and normal Invisalign providers is that there are limitations to what treatments that can be performed. More complex teeth movements may not be possible. You would still need to have Invisalign by a certified provider in order to fix certain more complex teeth alignment problems.
Smile Direct Club’s main marketing message is that their treatment costs 60% less than braces, and also other clear aligner brands such as Invisalign. For those looking for Invisalign deals, this could certainly be appealing. Their advertised price for clear aligner or nighttime aligners is $1895. This is a lot cheaper than the average price of Invisalign.
Take away tips:
- As with most things, eligibility is key to success. If your treatment needs are too complex, you may not be suitable for DIY teeth straightening
- Do your research. Find out everything you can before you dive in.
- Think about possible worst case scenario. If you weren’t happy with your end result with DIY teeth straightening, would you be able to pay again to see an orthodontist?
- Patient compliance is key to successful treatment. If you want the treatment to work, you must use it properly.
To find out more information about Invisalign at our Claremont dental clinic, click here. We recommend 6 weekly review appointments for all Invisalign treatments. This is so we can check that all teeth are moving correctly and also answer any queries or difficulties the patient has. We are with our patients every step of the way in ensuring they achieve a smile they love. Part of what we enjoy about our jobs at Dental Quarter Claremont is being part of a patient’s smile journey.
For more information from a reputable source, take a read of this page from the Australian Society of Orthodontists which explains more about DIY clear aligners.
