The “Straight” on Direct to Consumer Smiles

Technology today is amazing. We literally have everything from around the world at our fingertips. Products are globally recognized and easily available with the help of technology and innovation. We can get things now that we never thought were possible.

Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis, prevention and correction of malpositioned teeth and jaws. Technology has left its mark on orthodontics as well in the form of clear aligners. Invisalign was the first company to bring the product to market in 1999 after being approved by the FDA. Patients love the clear aligners as an alternative to traditional metal braces.

Technology has now pushed clear aligners into a direct to consumer product market. The result is a reduction in price that allows more consumers to enjoy the benefits of “straighter” teeth. So, what’s the problem, right? Let’s refer back to the definition of orthodontics. It begins with the diagnosis of malpositioned teeth and jaws. If we are doing direct to consumer orthodontics, we are now taking out the dental specialist and therefore not diagnosing the patient prior to treatment.

Orthodontics is a medical procedure. Medical procedures should be done by a medical professional no matter what part of the body it entails. A consumer is not a patient. A consumer has not considered x-rays, condition of the teeth, gum health or bite. The point is those who are in orthodontic treatment, whether traditional or aligners, need to be patients not just consumers. A patient needs to have their entire oral health evaluated by a dental professional before trying to move teeth. Failure to do so may create more problems than they had to begin with. “Straighter” teeth are not the only aspect of a healthy mouth. It is certainly part of the recipe, but it is not a magic wand.

The doctors at Allen Family Dentistry has completed hundreds of Invisalign treatment cases over 15 years of practice, as well as countless hours in continuing education to offer our patients the best possible care. We believe in their technology and have had wonderful results with patients. As technology increases in this field of dentistry, Invisalign has adapted to the doctor and patient demands. They are now offering more product options that are allowing more patients access to a new smile.

Allen Family Dentistry is also now offering more options for patients to be able to afford and complete orthodontic treatment with Invisalign. Dr. Andress and Dr. Copeland, alongside Dr. Allen, are all Invisalign certified and ready to help patients achieve their oral health goals.