Clear Aligner Orthodontics: Do the Right Thing

So, about a year ago, I started seeing ads for direct-to-consumer clear aligner orthodontics on social media. I was curious; I ordered a starter kit to check it out…for only 95-bucks.

Last week, I read a news report coming from NBC Health; it brought back some memories and confirmed some suspicions regarding do-it-yourself dental care.

The compelling message for direct-to-consumer clear aligner commodities is cost and remote care: “40-60% off and you don’t even have to visit the dentist or orthodontist.”

And sometimes, when I’m relaxing and breathing slowly in through my nose and out through my mouth (Mr. Miyagi style), I ponder health metaphors or analogies for do-it-yourself orthodontic treatment models; it’s not as easy as it sounds.

Using a colonoscopy example; it’s like receiving the kit in the mail, constructing the device at home, aiming it and conducting the inner journey all by yourself, returning the results to a clinician you’ll never meet, and waiting 90-days for feedback on the results.

I’ve provided Invisalign care since 2002. I mentor thirty GP Invisalign doctors across North America; we’ve won awards. But I’ve never taken my own impression and I suck at selfies. And, I’d have zero confidence in a do-it-myself result.

Unsupervised care is inexcusable. Beginning care at home or a scanning facility ignores the concept and practice of complete oral health; it’s also a missed opportunity to establish communication and a partnership between health provider and patient. Mail order plastic is 2002 Invisalign quality.

Invisalign care isn’t inexpensive. Judging from the number of people opting for a do-it-yourself system, we know there’s a want. Near the end of 2019, we dropped our fee by $1000 (it’s our new fee) and saw an overwhelming response. Align will soon offer an approach for less challenging cases, rivaling the financed cost of direct-to-consumer products. Care Credit offers interest-free financing for $188 per month in our practice. We’re introducing Compassionate Finance to young people without established credit and anyone who’s experienced credit setbacks.

Our vision is all about helping people we see as family become their own best health advocates.

We’re on your side. We want you to do the right thing.