On the surface, DIY teeth straightening procedures seem like a wonderful concept. They promise to improve your smile without requiring you to schedule multiple orthodontic visits. Unfortunately, this type of orthodontic treatment isn’t as great as it sounds.

Before you commit to using a DIY teeth straightening procedure to improve your smile, it is important that you take a closer look at how this type of orthodontic treatment compares to traditional in-office procedures. Learning more about the two different types of treatments will give you a better understanding of why it is extremely risky to use a DIY teeth straightening procedure.

What is DIY Orthodontics?

DIY orthodontics is a relatively new concept that is becoming extremely popular due to the increase in ads on TV and social media. One type of DIY orthodontics is that you can straighten your teeth using clear plastic aligner trays – similar to Invisalign – without ever having to go to an orthodontic’s office.

When you undergo DIY orthodontic treatment, everything is done completely in the comfort of your own home.  First, you fill out a small form that asks several questions such as what you would like corrected, previous dental work, and budget. After completing the form and paying a small fee, the orthodontic company will send you an impression kit in the mail.

Once you receive your impression kit in the mail, you will take an impression of your teeth and send the mold back to the company. The orthodontic company will then allow you to see a video of how your teeth can be corrected. If you like what you see, you can pay an additional fee and the company will create a set of aligner trays for you. Once they’re delivered to your home, you follow a detailed set of instructions on how to wear the trays and when to change them out.

Why In-Office Orthodontic Treatment Offers More Benefits Than Teeth Straightening On Your Own

Even though DIY orthodontics can have some benefits – such as costing less and not requiring you to go the orthodontist every six to eight weeks – there are numerous problems with this type of treatment. The problems you can encounter with DIY orthodontics will probably not only end up costing you more in the long run, but it is likely to end up disappointed when you don’t get the results you were hoping for.

The following are some of the drawbacks to DIY orthodontics:

• DIY impressions – Taking impressions of your teeth is difficult. Since you do it on your own, there is a huge risk that the impressions won’t be done properly, which can cause you to experience delays in treatment or prevent you from seeing the results you expect from treatment.
• Treatment is based on impressions – DIY orthodontics bases your entire treatment plan on impressions. Unfortunately, there are other factors – such as previous dental work, jaw alignment, and how fast or slow teeth move – that will influence your treatment time. Not taking these into account can lead to false expectations and can even increase the cost of your treatment, as you may need more aligner trays.
• No progress monitoring – You are required to monitor your progress and report to the company if you notice your teeth aren’t moving as planned. With in-office treatment, an experienced orthodontist does the monitoring and can often spot problems before they even arise.
• Additional aligner trays not included – iI you need additional aligner trays or your treatment is delayed, you often end up having to pay an additional fee with DIY orthodontics. With in-office treatment, this will most likely be included in your treatment costs.
• Retainers may not be included – Retainers help you maintain your perfect smile. DIY orthodontics often does not include retainers in the price of your treatment, which means you will have to go to an orthodontist to have them made if you wish to maintain your smile.
• Dental health can be worsened with improper orthodontic treatment – Most orthodontists go to an additional seven years of training AFTER receiving their college degree to be able to properly treat orthodontic patients.
• Results aren’t guaranteed – If you don’t see the results you expect, you may still have to go to an orthodontist for treatment, requiring added cost and time.

If you are interested in improving your smile, call Melbourne Orthodontics to schedule a free consultation. Our orthodontist will discuss treatment options with you and help you pick a treatment option that not only improves your smile, but best fits your budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Call our office today to schedule an appointment.