These days, you can order almost anything online — including orthodontic treatment. Some companies now claim you can straighten your teeth entirely through the mail, without ever visiting a dentist or orthodontist.
Mail-order orthodontic companies promote their services as a cheaper and more convenient alternative to braces or Invisalign. While the process may sound simple, skipping an in-person dental exam can come with serious risks.
How Mail-Order Teeth Straightening Works
Most mail-order orthodontic companies begin by sending customers an at-home impression kit. Inside the kit are trays and putty used to create molds of your teeth.
After taking your impressions, you mail them back to the company. A dental professional reviews them remotely, and if you’re approved, the company creates a series of clear plastic aligners. These aligners are shipped directly to your home.
You wear the trays daily and switch to a new set every few weeks to gradually move your teeth into a straighter position.
How It Compares to Invisalign
Mail-order aligners may seem similar to Invisalign, since both use clear plastic trays to straighten teeth. However, there is one major difference:
Many mail-order systems do not include an in-person evaluation from a dentist or orthodontist.
With Invisalign treatment, patients are typically examined in person, monitored throughout treatment, and given professional adjustments as needed.
Why Skipping a Dental Visit Can Be Risky
Many dental professionals warn that starting orthodontic treatment without an in-office exam can lead to serious oral health problems.
Without X-rays and a full evaluation, issues such as gum disease, tooth decay, or bone loss may go undetected. These conditions often need to be treated before orthodontic treatment begins. If they aren’t addressed first, moving the teeth could worsen the problem and lead to long-term damage.
Not Everyone Is a Good Candidate for Aligners
Another concern is that clear aligners are not the right solution for every patient. Some alignment issues require braces, tooth reshaping, attachments, or other orthodontic tools that mail-order companies may not offer.
In those cases, patients may spend money on trays that won’t effectively correct the problem.
The Safest Way to Straighten Your Teeth
Mail-order aligners may seem like a quick way to achieve a straighter smile while saving money, but they can come with risks. Before starting any teeth-straightening treatment, it’s always best to consult with a dentist or orthodontist to find the safest and most effective option for your smile.
