The Dangers of Mail Order Orthodontics

Orthodontics is an important dental specialty that should only be performed by those dentists with specialized training. The task of straightening teeth and aligning a patient’s bite should only be performed under the strict supervision of a licensed dental professional. However, one of the newest trends in dental care is do-it-yourself orthodontics.

New products on the market now allow customers to take impressions of their crooked teeth at home and then send away for mail order aligner trays. These products function in a similar way as Invisalign clear aligner trays – without the visits to the orthodontist’s office.

These products promise effective results at reduced cost. These marketing techniques make mail order teeth straightening seem like an inexpensive breeze. However, if something seems to good to be true – it likely is. Without proper care management DIY orthodontics can do more harm than good to your mouth.  For example, orthodontic treatment can perpetuate gum disease and when unmanaged treatment can do permanent damage to your smile.  Addiitonally, orthodontic treatment may not be effective for every patient – something that is difficult to determine through self-performed dental molds. X-rays and other professional screenings are absolutely essential to delivering quality dental and orthodontic care.

If you are ready to invest in the future of your smile, and do so in a responsible and healthy way – contact our office to learn more about braces or Invisalign clear aligner trays.

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