The Face-Off Begins!
Invisalign and Smile Direct club both offer clear aligners systems to those seeking orthodontic treatment. Clear aligners work by using gentle force to guide teeth into proper alignment. Flexible plastic allows this form of treatment to completely encase the teeth which allow a snug fit. Wearing plastic aligners for 22 hours a day yields the same results as braces over time, thanks to advancements in technology allowing minimal hardware to achieve a maximum effect.
Invisalign Vs. Smile Direct Club
Both Invisalign and Smile Direct Club are easily accessed and utilized by consumers like you. However, there is a difference between the two technologies. The main draw to Smile Direct Club is that you never have to step foot inside an orthodontist’s office. Unlike Invisalign where a qualified orthodontist will walk you through the process and be there for you every step of the way. As opposed to Invisalign, Smile Direct Club relies on you to be accountable and monitor your results via remote contact, or, “Teledentistry.”
What is Invisalign?
With Invisalign, an orthodontist such as Dr. Scantlebury will be able to meet with you one-on-one and address your orthodontic progress as treatment ensues. Dr. Scantlebury will take Xrays of your teeth, and create molds of them or utilize iTero scanning to take a digital impression. This allows Dr. Scantlebury to see the full picture of your mouth. Even what’s going on beneath the surface. Your treatment will be personalized to your exact needs. Then, Dr. Scantlebury will create your Invisalign aligners. You will be able to see your amazing progress through your beautifully clear aligners!
What Is Smile Direct Club?
Smile Direct Club also offers you clear aligners. What draws many people to Smile Direct Club is the fact that you never have to step foot in an office. Smile Direct Club eliminates the need for brick and mortar stores. The difference, however, is that you must create your own molds of your teeth in order to craft aligners suited to you. In a way, you are acting as your own orthodontist. Any dentist can become certified in Smile Direct Club after only 3 weeks of training!
A Professional Opinion
The American Organization of Orthodontists (AAO) has issued warnings to us about online orthodontic vendors. They highly suggest only meeting with a qualified orthodontist such as Dr. Scantlebury, and in fact, the AAO has also issued complaints in 36 states stating that mail-order aligners are a violation of dental practice statutes, and can lead to the direct harm of consumers without an orthodontist’s guidance.
Discover What’s Right For You
Do what’s best for your health. Come to Scantlebury Orthodontics and see the difference in care for yourself. Don’t discount the health of your teeth, or it could be a costly mistake down the road. Contact Scantlebury Orthodontics to learn more about the Invisalign Vs. Smile Direct Club Faceoff. Call us today for more information.