It’s safe to say that pretty much everybody wants a good deal. From negotiating big-ticket items like cars and houses to shopping the Black Friday sales, bargain hunting can yield big rewards. Perhaps that’s why many people are turning to by-mail aligners to straighten their teeth. After all, at-home treatments promise big savings over dentists and orthodontists. But while these treatments may seem identical and at-home programs may seem like a good deal, not all treatments are created equally. Here are a few reasons that at-home orthodontics can be a bad – and even dangerous- idea.
INFERIOR MATERIALS
One thing you may not know by looking at a by-mail aligner is that these aligners are made from inferior materials that are not as durable as the kind you’d get from a dentist or orthodontist. While that may not seem like a big deal, it really is, because inferior materials can easily bend and warp, causing your teeth to move in a way that is detrimental to your treatment.
Professional, dentist-provided aligners are more durable and will not shift, keeping the teeth in place and moving them in the correct direction.
NO SUPPORT SYSTEM
With at-home aligners, you’re basically on your own. Have a problem? There’s nobody to help you. In fact, your aligner trays may not even be approved by a licensed dentist. Many companies employ technicians with inadequate dental training. This can drastically affect the outcome of your treatment and be harmful to your teeth.
THE COST
Back to the cost of treatment, it may seem like you are getting a good deal with at-home treatments, but ultimately that cost can add up, especially if there were mistakes made by your tech along the way. In fact, correcting damage from improperly designed aligners could end up sending you to a local practitioner and end up costing you more in fees than you would have paid for an in-office treatment plan,
THE BOTTOM LINE
While at-home treatment plans may seem like a good idea, they can be dangerous to your teeth and more expensive than they seem. For safe, professional orthodontic care, contact Dr. Abelar’s office for a consultation by calling 858-523-1400.
