Buyer Beware: 5 Reasons to Avoid Clear Aligners by Mail

The premise of mail-in clear aligners is simple: order trays from home and enjoy the savings! This might seem tempting at first; however, no matter how affordable or convenient mail-in aligners may seem, there’s a catch. When it comes to your smile, it’s important to consider all your options and do your research. Read on to find five key risks associated with mail-in clear aligners that you should know before taking the plunge.

1. No Professional Supervision

The biggest issue when you choose mail-in clear aligners is that you miss out on crucial in-person oversight from a trained dentist. Professional aligners require regular check-ups to monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed.

Without the supervision of someone who knows what they’re doing, there’s a higher chance of issues going unnoticed. This could lead to misalignment, bite problems, or even long-term damage to your teeth.

2. Standardized Treatments

Mail-in aligner companies often rely on a generic, one-size-fits-all approach, which doesn’t account for your particular dental structure. Your mouth is as unique as your fingerprints, and a personalized treatment plan is necessary to get the best results.

3. Missed or Misdiagnosis

Orthodontic treatment isn’t just about making your teeth look good—it’s about ensuring your bite is functional and healthy. Mail-in aligner kits don’t typically include comprehensive dental exams. Because of this, issues like gum disease, tooth decay, or underlying structural problems can go unnoticed. Using clear aligners without treating these underlying conditions can lead to serious complications, including gum recession, tooth loss, or jaw pain.

4. Potential for Inaccurate Treatment

Aligners need to fit your teeth precisely to work effectively. Mail-in aligners are made from at-home impressions, which may not be accurate enough. A poor fit can result in extreme discomfort, ineffective treatment, or even damage to your teeth and the underlying jawbone. Ill-fitting aligners could also cause unpredictable movements, leading to worse alignment issues than before!

5. No Emergency Care

Mail-in aligner companies don’t offer in-person care. At best, you may be able to talk with someone over a video chat, but they won’t be able to physically help in case of an emergency. So, what happens if something goes wrong during your treatment? If you experience severe pain, break an aligner, or notice something isn’t working correctly, you’re left with limited options. In contrast, seeing a local dentist ensures you have access to emergency care and fast solutions when you need them.

As you can see, while mail-in clear aligners may seem convenient, the risks often outweigh the benefits! By choosing professional orthodontic treatment, you’ll receive personalized care, expert oversight, and peace of mind knowing your smile is in safe hands. So, call your dentist today and schedule your consultation.

About the Author

Dr. Travis A. Markle has been helping patients achieve perfect smiles for decades. After graduating from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio, he began a lifelong career of learning, eventually earning a prestigious Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry. Today, he continues to hone his skills through renowned institutions like the Dawson Academy and SPEAR. Call (719) 634-3204 to schedule an Invisalign consultation at Southern Oaks Dental or visit our website to learn more.