Undercover Invisaligner

Okay, it’s one thing buying a Shamwow or a bear-proof Safe Box Locker off an infomercial at 3AM. But do-it-yourself clear aligner orthodontics? I needed to investigate.

So, I went undercover. I applied for my own care. And I could get started for only 95-bucks. I’ve provided Invisallign care since 2002; so, who needed another doctor? I was curious.

The Instagram pitch emphasized price and no inconvenient visits to the dentist.

The direct-to-consumer model proposed to mail me a kit and instructions for impression taking. I would “snail mail” back my results with some "selfies." After evaluating the returns, a "Licensed Orthodontist" would devise a treatment plan and send me the clear tray aligners I’d use to begin my orthodontic care.

Invisalign care has come a long way since 2002. And continued research and innovation have taken the Invisalign process and its provider's knowledge to next level after next level. Direct supervision has always been a standard of care.

I was my mom’s caregiver for just about a decade. Supporting my mom taught me a little about what was (despite best efforts) often missing in today’s healthcare; the “care” part. So, when the absence of personalized supervision is intentional and part of a business plan, I’m resistant.

I sent in my application and admit I’m curious about the impression material I'll get in the mail. Thing is, even though I've practiced dentistry for going on 40-years, I've never taken my own impression. And guess what, I suck at taking selfies.

Looks like I'll get my kit in just a few weeks. And all I'll miss is stuff like an oral cancer exam, an airway evaluation (as part of a complete dental health examination) and a conversation…where I'd do most of the sharing and my dentist would hopefully do most of the listening. What could go wrong?