Clear aligners make it possible to straighten your teeth without a mouth full of metal. That’s why Stellar Family Orthodontics offers a variety of clear aligners at their offices in Mukilteo and Mill Creek, Washington.
If you’re considering clear aligners, like Invisalign®, you may wonder if you really need a professional orthodontist to create them. With so many online options to choose from, it’s tempting to buy a set of mail-order aligners at a discounted price.
But even though mail-order aligners sound appealing, they may not be such a great deal in the long-term. Here are a few reasons you should always choose clear aligners from a trusted orthodontist, like Dr. Chad Carver at Stellar Family Orthodontics:
Mail-order clear aligners aren’t cheaper than Invisalign.
Many mail-order clear aligner brands promise to straighten crooked teeth in 6 months or less at a minimal cost to you. But this doesn’t include the cost of the X-rays, diagnostic imaging tests, or retainers you’ll need to complete your treatment.
Invisalign is tailored just for you.
If you know someone with Invisalign, you probably haven’t noticed a difference when they smile. That’s because Invisalign molds to the exact shape of your teeth. The BPA-free plastic that Invisalign contains is also completely translucent. Unfortunately, most mail-order options simply can’t match the quality of professional clear aligners.
The mail-order process can be uncomfortable.
While Invisalign uses a completely modern, digital planning process, mail-order options typically use outdated techniques. If you choose mail-order clear aligners, you’ll likely undergo an uncomfortable process. This means taking goopy impressions and traditional X-rays, rather than digital X-rays with the iTero® intraoral scanner.
Mail-order treatments are limited.
With modern technology, Invisalign can treat nearly any orthodontic issue, including:
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
- Open bite
- Crowded teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Misaligned jaw
Invisalign can even treat complex cases that once requires braces to correct. Without a licensed orthodontist, you can’t treat complicated issues, such as a severe underbite, with mail-order aligners.
Invisalign treatment plans can be adjusted.
Because Invisalign uses a digital process complete with proprietary software, Dr. Carver can adjust your treatment plan as needed. Not only does this address any potential roadblocks in your treatment plan, it also means fewer in-person visits for you.
Mail-order clear aligners use low-quality materials.
Invisalign contains SmartTrack™ plastic — a flexible, comfortable type of plastic. This technology makes it easy to wear and remove your aligners. Mail-order aligners are typically made from generic plastic that isn’t as comfortable to wear.
Still have questions about Invisalign? Call Stellar Family Orthodontics or schedule a free consultation online today!