In our technological world today, everything we want can be ours with the click of a button! This can be somewhat risky when you’re shopping online for dental treatments, like Invisalign. This popular alternative to metal braces comes with many advantages. The clear aligner trays are less visibly noticeable, and treatment usually is completed faster than with the traditional method. It can be tempting to expedite it further and skip the dentist altogether!
Because the internet makes everything so easily accessible, many patients have turned to virtual shopping to purchase their aligner trays. This comes with risks, however! Keep reading to learn 3 good reasons why you shouldn’t buy aligners online.
Reason #1: They Aren’t Customized
Invisalign is so effective because the customized aligners fit like a glove over your teeth to gently shift them into their ideal positions. When you order through the mail, however, you’ll get trays that are not tailored for you, specifically. That means you might not even get the results you hoped for. Your teeth could move in ways you didn’t anticipate or might not move at all. You may end up needing to see the dentist for corrective treatment, anyway!
Reason #2: You Don’t See A Dentist
Those who are interested in purchasing their aligners over the internet might be doing so deliberately to avoid a dental visit. After all, many patients have anxiety about being in the dentist’s chair. It’s unwise to get dental gear without their input, though. It’s possible to have a cavity or gum disease and not even know it. Your dentist will examine your teeth prior to fitting you for Invisalign to ensure there’s no disease or decay that needs to be addressed first.
If you order your aligners without a dental exam, any underlying health concerns will continue to go unaddressed and will only get worse in time.
Reason #3: You Could End Up Paying More
Many who opt to get their Invisalign mailed do so partly to avoid the cost of dental appointments or more costly gear. You might not actually be doing yourself a favor if you go this route, though. If the aligners don’t fit well, they could move your teeth in ways you don’t want. Then you’ll have to call your dentist to have any errors corrected. That means you’d be paying both the cost of your online purchase as well as the dentist. It’s wiser just to go to your dentist to begin with.
Don’t be tempted by cheaper internet options that could leave you worse off than when you started! Only a dentist can properly fit your teeth for Invisalign. They can work with you on a treatment plan to get the results you want, all while keeping your smile healthy. Soon you’ll be well on your way to having the perfectly straight smile you’ve always dreamed of!
About the Practice
Our dentists at MJM Family & Cosmetic Dentistry offer a wide array of dental services to patients of all ages. Our diverse team believes that a healthy, beautiful smile can increase your confidence and quality of life. If you’ve had a bad experience purchasing clear aligners over the internet, we can help! You’re welcome to request an appointment on our website or by calling (703) 934-5540.
