Written by Keith R. Dobrin, DMD, MBA
In recent years, do-it-yourself (DIY) aligner companies have emerged, promising an easy and convenient way to straighten your teeth without the need for an orthodontist. You’ve probably seen the commercials boasting about how simple it is to achieve the perfect smile from the comfort of your home. But where are these companies now? What has happened to those like Smile Direct Club, which claimed to revolutionize orthodontics?
The Real Consequences of DIY Aligners
Many of these companies are now facing numerous lawsuits for damaging smiles, compromising dental health, and delivering poor results. As orthodontists, we find ourselves asking, “When will this nonsense end?” While there are certainly situations where DIY is appropriate—like painting a room, unclogging a drain, or setting up your Wi-Fi—orthodontic treatment is not one of them. Can you imagine performing your own filling, root canal, or tooth extraction? So why would anyone think they could safely move teeth and correct dental issues on their own?
Orthodontic Expertise: What It Really Takes
As a nationally recognized, board-certified orthodontist and published researcher, I can tell you that there is a lot involved in orthodontic tooth movement, whether using braces or clear aligners like Invisalign. At Bancroft Dobrin Orthodontics, we customize every treatment plan because each patient is unique. Unlike DIY aligner companies that treat you as just another number, we consider every detail related to your teeth, gums, bone structure, and overall smile.
Why Personalized Orthodontic Care Matters
When you visit us at Bancroft Dobrin Orthodontics, our doctors take the time to assess your individual needs using advanced 3D scanning technology, x-rays, and clinical photos. These tools allow us to create highly accurate simulations of how your teeth will move, ensuring safe and effective treatment. A hands-on approach from a trained professional is essential. Simply taking a 3D scan and sending it off to a remote technician is not enough to ensure the best results.
The Risks of DIY: What You Might Overlook
DIY aligner companies often lure customers with promises of low cost and convenience. But how does this compare to professional care? Can you accurately take your own dental impressions or capture clear photos of your teeth’s smallest details? And what about x-rays to check the roots of your teeth, especially if you have fillings, crowns, or root canals? Teeth with these conditions move differently and require careful attention—something a technician on the other side of a computer simply can’t provide.
Why Cost Shouldn’t Be Your Only Concern
Many patients are drawn to DIY aligners because of their seemingly lower cost. However, in the long run, what do you really save? We’ve seen countless patients who initially opted for these quick-fix solutions only to end up needing comprehensive treatment from us later on—treatment that could have been completed more quickly, effectively, and affordably from the start. So, was it really worth the time, money, and discomfort?
COVID-19 and Orthodontic Care: How We Keep You Safe
You might wonder how you can receive safe orthodontic care during a global pandemic. I assure you that our clear aligner patients have thrived throughout the pandemic because their treatment plans were well-prepared in advance. We simply checked in regularly to ensure everything was on track. At Bancroft Dobrin Orthodontics, we have always prioritized your safety, taking all necessary precautions to provide outstanding care in a clean and secure environment.
Conclusion: Trust the Experts at Bancroft Dobrin Orthodontics
After considering the risks, we hope you’ll choose Bancroft Dobrin Orthodontics for safe, comfortable, and effective orthodontic treatment. While there are many things you can successfully do on your own, orthodontics shouldn’t be one of them. Leave it to the professionals—leave it to us.
Contact Us
For professional orthodontic care you can trust, reach out to us at Bancroft Dobrin Orthodontics:
Waldwick Office Phone: (201) 447-1611
Address: 90 Franklin Turnpike, Waldwick, NJ 07463
Teaneck Office Phone: (201) 692-1455
Address: 175 Cedar Lane, Suite 1, Teaneck, NJ 07666
Let us help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted, safely and effectively.