The Hidden Dangers of At-Home Aligners: What You Need to Know Before You Click “Order”

“Direct to consumer” aligners have been on the rise. Companies such as SmileDirectClub, CandidCo, and Byte offer at home aligners, made by just an impression the patient takes at home and sends in. The promise is tempting: a straighter smile from the comfort of your home, at a fraction of the cost of traditional orthodontics. But while these mail-order aligners may seem convenient and affordable, they come with significant risks that many customers aren’t aware of.

Why Are At-Home Aligners So Popular?

At-home aligners appeal to those looking for a budget-friendly and low-effort solution to teeth straightening. They typically involve ordering a kit to create impressions of your teeth at home or visiting a retail location for a scan, then receiving custom aligners mailed directly to you. The whole process happens mostly without in-person visits to an orthodontist. They are also a much cheaper option, averaging about $2k versus the typical $6k patients would pay at an orthodontist’s office.

The Risks You’d be Taking on

1. Lack of Comprehensive Dental Evaluation

Orthodontic treatment is more than just straightening teeth. It’s about ensuring your bite, jaw alignment, and oral health are in balance. At-home aligner companies usually don’t provide a thorough dental examination like an orthodontist would. This means underlying issues like gum disease, occurrence of cysts, or jaw problems can go undetected and untreated, leading to severe complications down the line. Radiographs, which are required during orthodontic evaluations, are typically not taken, so important information such as bone quality, root angulation, existence of impacted teeth, etc. is missing.

2. No Direct Supervision by an Orthodontist

In traditional orthodontic care, treatment is closely monitored by specialists who can adjust plans as needed. With at-home aligners, you rarely see a licensed orthodontist in person. Changes in tooth movement or unexpected issues may go unnoticed, increasing the risk of improper tooth movement, relapse, or permanent damage.

3. Potential for Irreversible Damage

Incorrect tooth movement can cause root resorption (shortening of tooth roots), gum recession, or even tooth loss. Because at-home aligners may not account for complex bite issues or jaw discrepancies, the risk of long-term harm is real and sometimes irreversible. A poll from 2020 showed that 6.6% of respondents that received treatment from at-home aligners had to see their dentist after to treat severe side effects. According to this study from 2023, the most commonly reported side effect was bite problems, followed by pain, sensitivity, and periodontal disease, with some instances being non-reversible.

4. Limited Scope of Treatment

Aligners are generally suitable only for mild to moderate cases. Complex orthodontic issues, like severe crowding or bite misalignment, require expert evaluation and customized treatment plans that these kits can’t provide.

5. Delayed or Inadequate Emergency Care

If you experience pain, broken aligners, or other issues, you might have limited access to timely professional care. This can exacerbate problems and delay necessary treatment.

What Should You Do Instead?

• Consult a Licensed Orthodontist: Before starting any orthodontic treatment, get a professional evaluation. They can recommend the safest and most effective treatment for your needs.

• Beware of Too-Good-to-Be-True Deals: Affordable treatments are great, but not at the expense of your dental health.

Final Thoughts

While at-home aligners can be tempting, they come with significant risks that are often overlooked. Your smile is an important investment, so don’t compromise it. Professional orthodontic care ensures your treatment is safe, effective, and tailored to your unique needs.

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment but concerned about the price, read our other articles containing resources to make orthodontic treatment more affordable. Schedule a consultation with a qualified orthodontist to explore your options safely. Your future smile will thank you!