Have you heard about the online Invisalign® scams?
You’ve probably heard of Invisalign®, the clear alternative to braces. After all, Invisalign® is the most popular clear aligner on the market. With clear aligners, you have the option to take off your aligners at any time. That makes it easy to clean them, eat with them, and stay safe while playing sports.
A board-certified Central Florida orthodontist like Dr. Marielle Beauchamp is the only route you should take when you want Invisalign® as an orthodontic treatment option. Most adults, responsible teens, and even many children qualify for these clear aligners. Only a small number of severe tooth gaps and misalignment require braces instead.
It’s crucial to trust a professional and only use verified Invisalign® technology.
Orthodontic treatment isn’t something you should try to “DIY,” but online many teens and adults are bombarded with ads and videos trying to convince them to do just that. It doesn’t really work to treat orthodontic conditions, and it can be dangerous.
Let’s take a look at the online Invisalign® scams.
The Online Invisalign® Scam Targets Adults With Untreated Orthodontic Issues
Millions of adults use metal braces, clear braces, Invisalign® or other clear aligners every single year. Out of approximately four million Americans receiving treatment with braces in any given year, about one million of them are adults.
Adults of any age can benefit from orthodontic treatment. But we understand that some people might feel a bit uncertain about it. You might also have questions about the cost of Invisalign® or other costs of orthodontic care.
Throughout 2024, online Invisalign® scams have become more common. They prey on these worries by hoping you won’t go to a trusted family orthodontist. Instead, they steer you to buy dangerous products online.
The worst of these are DIY clear aligner packages. To clarify we’re talking about the programs that have you sign up and pay online, take and submit your own measurements. You’re then sent clear aligners that aren’t from a trusted brand and you’ll bypass a treatment plan and visits with a qualified local orthodontist.
Why DIY Clear Aligner Packages Don’t Work
DIY clear aligner packages are hazardous for a number of reasons. Before we get into that, though, let’s start with the obvious question: Do they work?
DIY clear aligner package options are not an effective treatment for orthodontic issues. You won’t get any substantial results from them and can even harm your teeth and gums.
Real Invisalign® clear aligners are made using sophisticated digital imagery of your teeth. These digital images are used to create the ideal plastic aligners for you, customized to your teeth and mouth. Needless to say, you can’t benefit from that when you use counterfeit clear aligners.
At best, nothing will happen at all and your condition won’t improve.
But you could find yourself with painful side effects and even in the hospital.
DIY Clear Aligners Can Be Dangerous
DIY clear aligners are dangerous for a number of reasons:
DIY Clear Aligners Can Poison You
DIY clear aligners often come from overseas and many are made using toxic materials. That includes unsafe plastics. Since these plastics have to be in contact with your gums, chemicals can leach into your body and directly into your bloodstream. That can lead to a significant allergic reaction or even to poisoning.
DIY Clear Aligners Can Make Your Condition Worse
To be effective, orthodontic appliances (such as clear plastic aligners) must apply the right amount of pressure to teeth – no more or less. Since DIY clear aligners aren’t actually made for your mouth, they could hurt teeth or gums by applying too much force. That could cause permanent, irreversible damage, especially to gums.
If DIY Clear Aligners Cause Problems, You’re Stuck
If you run into any trouble with orthodontic treatment from a board-certified Port Orange orthodontist, you get immediate help and care. You can also call any time for tips or advice. On the other hand, if you have problems with a DIY clear aligner kit, you’re out of luck. Many are sold by fake companies that you can’t even find.
Always Choose a Board-Certified Florida Orthodontist for Clear Aligners and Other Orthodontic Care
Who can you trust when it comes to orthodontists in Central Florida?
A board-certified orthodontist is your best bet for safe, comfortable, and effective treatment.
Sad as it is to say, even some dentists have gotten involved in the online Invisalign® scam, selling off-brand or fake clear aligners to unsuspecting patients. You need a trusted local “orthodontist near me” who has a real reputation for excellence. Don’t buy any orthodontic treatment items from an online store!
Beauchamp Orthodontics has earned a 4.9 Google Review average from more than 300 real patients – your friends and neighbors right here in Port Orange, Florida. Dr. Beauchamp will ensure your safety and comfort with an accurate assessment, a real treatment plan, and genuine Invisalign® aligners with all the benefits!
Schedule your consultation online to get started!
