If you’re thinking about getting braces, you have likely done your research and discovered a few different options. Many startup companies are cropping up offering orthodontic treatment for a fraction of the cost of Invisalign treatment.
While the temptation to save money on your treatment might be strong, there are a few things you should consider before you take the plunge. While you might be able to save time and money by skipping the regular checkups, there are additional risks to this option.
In this guide, we will explore the differences between mail-order retainers and the kind that you can get from your dentist.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is the brand name for an innovative type of treatment to straighten teeth. It uses clear plastic retainers to gradually move teeth into the correct position.
At the start of your treatment, a digital scanner is used to create impressions of your teeth. These scans are turned into a series of aligners that will move your teeth closer and closer to the right position.
What are mail order aligners?
Mail order aligners are a cheaper alternative to products like Invisalign. Instead of visiting the dentist, you provide impressions of your teeth using a dental putty. This is sent to a lab where your series of aligners is made. You then wear your aligners every day and your teeth should theoretically become straighter.
What are the benefits of mail order aligners?
The biggest advantage of choosing mail order aligners is the price. It is often a lot cheaper than dentist-supervised treatment. However, you have to consider why this type of treatment is cheaper. It costs less because you do not have access to:
- Regular dental checkups to make sure your treatment is progressing as it should.
- Round the clock support if you have questions.
- Digital scans to create accurate impressions of your teeth.
You might benefit from this type of treatment if you are short on time and cannot commit to regular dental appointments, but there are risks attached to this treatment option.
What are the risks of mail order aligners?
Treatment doesn’t always go to plan, and only your dentist would be able to spot the early signs that something is amiss. When you choose remote dental treatment, you are essentially choosing to undergo a complex dental procedure without supervision.
Regular checkups help to ensure that your teeth are healthy and responding well to the treatment. It’s also an ideal opportunity for you to ask questions to make sure you are confident.
And finally, impressions taken with dental putty are not as accurate as digital scans. The putty can move around, which would mean that the entire case of aligners could be created from inaccurate impressions. Without dental supervision, you could continue wearing poorly fitting aligners that hurt your gums, lips and teeth.
What is the alternative?
If you are looking to save money on orthodontic treatment, one of the best solutions is to spread the cost of your treatment with an interest-free credit plan. This will allow you to access premium quality dental treatment for a low monthly cost. Spreading the cost of treatment is ideal, as it means you won’t need a large sum up-front.
You could also choose an alternative treatment such as composite bonding to help create the illusion of aesthetically perfect teeth without undergoing lengthy treatment. Or you could choose fixed aligners, which are typically cheaper than removable aligners.
If you’re ready to start your orthodontic journey with Sloan Dental, get in touch with our team today.
