Online Teeth Aligners: What are the Dangers and Risks of a DIY Smile?

The Purpose of Teeth Alignment

Proper teeth alignment is essential not only for an attractive smile but also for good oral health. As a board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Taylor is a specialist in everything related to teeth alignment. He thoroughly examines your teeth and bite and then develops a personalized treatment plan to guide your teeth into their ideal position.

Potential Dangers of Online Teeth Aligners

Here are some dangers and risks of opting for that DIY smile.

Lack of In-Person Evaluation

Without an in-person examination, online providers lack the means to accurately assess the health and positioning of your teeth. This may result in incorrect treatment or failure to recognize underlying problems. An orthodontist’s trained eye can detect problems that may require additional treatment before beginning alignment.

Unsupervised Treatment Progress

Regular check-ins with a professional are essential to monitor your progress. With online clear braces, an orthodontist will never lay eyes on you or see the progress that you’re making. Here, you’ll meet with Dr. Taylor throughout your procedure to make sure you’re progressing well and handle any issues if they arise.

Risk of Improper Impressions

With online services, you’re the one doing the impression of your teeth and sending it in. Here, we take the time to make a precise replica of your teeth using a 3D digital scanner. Then, the orthodontist meticulously adjusts each aligner before delivering it to you so it will fit precisely and comfortably.

Bite Alignment Concerns

Online aligners often focus solely on the appearance of your front teeth without considering the proper alignment of your entire bite. This can lead to long-term problems with chewing and jaw function. Dr. Taylor is a specialist who treats dental and facial irregularities to align teeth and jaws correctly. He’s also an expert in occlusion, bone physiology, and bone development.

Potential for Discomfort

Poorly fitting aligners can cause pain, irritation, and damage to teeth and gums. It is important to have an orthodontist ensure a comfortable fit.

Lack of Accountability

With online services, if you encounter problems or aren’t happy with your treatment, you’ll deal with a customer service representative. Online reviews for these companies’ customer service skills have been consistently bad.

Teeth Straightening is a Service, Not a Product

Online products like eyeglasses, hearing aids, and prescriptions are one thing; online teeth straightening is another. These products don’t require a doctor’s oversight since you have already seen a professional before ordering them. Also, these products aren’t actively changing anything.

While braces are a product, straightening teeth is a service. It changes the structure of your mouth, jaw, and teeth.

The Benefits of Professional Orthodontic Care

A skilled orthodontist will move your teeth effectively, with personalized attention to your dental needs throughout the process.

Dr. Taylor is one of the few Elite Invisalign Providers in the Rio Grande Valley. He will provide the highest standard of care to you or your child, and he truly cares about the health of every patient.

If you’ve been debating about online teeth aligners, we hope this information has been helpful.

We also know that cost can be an issue when you’re looking at a professional option. That’s why we offer a free, no-obligation consultation, including x-rays and an orthodontic exam, to determine the right treatment options for you. This consultation also includes talking about affordable financing for all budgets.