The promise of straighter teeth without ever visiting a dentist might sound convenient, but mail-in clear aligners come with serious risks. Many people looking for Invisalign alternatives in Brampton may be tempted by lower prices and fast shipping—but the long-term consequences of unsupervised orthodontic treatment can be damaging to your smile and your health.
Here are five dangers of using mail-order clear aligners without the guidance of a dental professional.
1. No In-Person Dental Exam
Before starting any orthodontic treatment, a thorough dental evaluation is essential. Dentists look for signs of gum disease, tooth decay, bite alignment issues, or jaw complications that can impact your treatment plan. Mail-in aligner companies typically rely on self-made impressions and photos, which are not a substitute for a professional in-person exam.
Skipping this step increases the risk of worsening existing conditions or starting treatment when it’s not safe to do so.
2. Poor Fit and Inaccurate Impressions
Mail-order aligners are created from molds or scans you take at home, often without any clinical guidance. If these impressions are inaccurate, the aligners may not fit correctly. Poorly fitting aligners can move your teeth unpredictably, cause discomfort, and even damage your gums or surrounding bone.
Professional clear aligners like Invisalign are based on detailed 3D scans, taken in-office and reviewed by trained providers to ensure a safe, custom fit.
3. No Ongoing Supervision
Orthodontic treatment is not a one-and-done process. Teeth shift gradually, and adjustments are sometimes needed throughout treatment. With mail-in aligners, there is usually no regular check-in with a provider to monitor your progress. If problems arise—like teeth not moving correctly or unexpected pain—you’re often left to troubleshoot on your own.
With in-person care, your provider can track your progress and make real-time changes to your treatment plan to keep things on course.
4. Risk of Bite and Jaw Problems
Mail-in aligners often focus on cosmetic improvements, not functional alignment. This means your teeth might appear straighter, but your bite could be left unbalanced. Poor bite alignment can cause issues like jaw pain, headaches, uneven tooth wear, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems down the line.
A licensed dentist or orthodontist takes your entire bite into account, ensuring not just a better-looking smile, but one that functions properly.
5. No Recourse if Something Goes Wrong
When you work with a local dental professional, you have access to follow-up care and support. If an issue arises, you know exactly who to call. With many mail-order companies, customer support can be limited, and legal protections are minimal. You may end up needing corrective treatment that costs far more than traditional orthodontics would have in the first place.
Choosing a trusted provider for your clear aligner treatment is an investment in both your smile and your long-term oral health.
Mail-in aligners may seem convenient, but the risks simply aren’t worth it.
About the Practice
Salvaggio Dentistry is a full-service dental clinic proudly serving the Brampton community. Our experienced team, led by Dr. Salvaggio, offers a wide range of treatments including Invisalign, cosmetic dentistry, and family care. With a commitment to patient education, safety, and personalized care, Salvaggio Dentistry ensures every smile gets the expert attention it deserves.
Call us at +1 289-569-0721 or request an appointment online.