You can do virtually anything on the Internet these days. A new wardrobe, buying groceries, redecorating your home: anything is possible with the click of a mouse, and now, so is orthodontic treatment. How is it possible that you can achieve a perfect smile without ever stepping foot into an orthodontic office? Well, before you start signing on the dotted line, you may want to weigh your options. When it comes to seeing an orthodontist versus getting mail-order orthodontic treatment, what option is best for you?
What Is Mail-Order Orthodontic Treatment?
Otherwise known as teledentistry, mail-order treatment programs allow you to go through treatment for issues such as crowded and misaligned teeth without having to go to an actual office. This form of treatment utilizes aligners, which are fitted to meet your needs and sent to your home. While these programs tend to be cheaper alternatives to traditional orthodontics, there are limitations.
Seeing an Orthodontist Is Different Than Mail-Order Treatment
When you see an orthodontist in person, they are able to assess your unique situation to design a treatment program tailored specifically to you. Your orthodontist is able to get a better picture of how to fix your issues by:
- Evaluating your teeth in an oral exam
- Taking X-rays and scans
- Talking with you about your options
- Finding the best option that fits your needs
- Being there to adjust your treatment plan accordingly
- Monitoring your progress with an oral evaluation
One perk of seeing an orthodontist is you get to decide who you’re going to see. With mail-order programs, an orthodontic professional is assigned to you. This can be a challenge, especially if you’re not completely satisfied with the person who is being assigned to you. Another perk of seeing an orthodontist in person is you’re able to ask questions and really delve into any issues you may be having with your teeth. This can be tough to do in a virtual environment.
How Treatment Differs With Teledentistry
A major hurdle to mail-order programs is the need for you to do your own impressions for your aligners to be made. Since you’re most likely not qualified to do this, there can be errors made that could affect the outcome of your treatment. Seeing an orthodontist in person can alleviate this risk, as many orthodontists take digital scans which have many benefits. These are much more accurate, not to mention, easier to complete. Another drawback to mail-order treatment is your assigned orthodontic professional isn’t there to make adjustments as necessary. It’s up to you to alert them if you feel as though something is amiss with your treatment.
Trust a Professional
In the end, you’re in control of your treatment path, and this isn’t something to take lightly. Your smile is an important part of who you are, and by investing in this important piece of you, you can expect favorable results. Trust a professional who is well-versed in orthodontic treatment, who you can ask questions to and trust that they have your best interests in mind. After all, you wouldn’t do your own surgery, so why would you do your own orthodontic treatment? It’s best to leave this to the professionals.
Let the experts at Charleston Orthodontic Specialists design the right treatment plan for you. Call (843) 4-BRACES to get started today!