SmileDirectClub is a unique teeth straightening aligner system that allows patients to straighten their teeth in the comfort of their homes using removable aligner trays. Suitable candidates include patients over 12 years and those with mild to moderate alignment issues. It also requires fewer in-clinic orthodontist appointments than its competitors.
SmileDirectClub provides two types of aligner treatments.
- the Traditional clear aligners have to be worn 22 hours a day.
- the Nighttime aligner therapy requires 10 hours a day during sleeping hours.
Patients can order an impression kit and have it delivered to their homes, and they can create a mold of their mouth using the materials provided. They will also have to take pictures according to the instruction manual given.
Alternatively, they can also visit a Smile Shop that can take 3D images for them. Once the molds and scans have been sent back, an assigned orthodontist will study the impressions and approve the treatment. When the custom aligners are ready, they will be mailed to the patient. If the aligners are not well-fitted, patients can get a guaranteed full refund within 30 days of receiving their aligners.
Patients can get in touch with their orthodontist directly via a 24/7 support care service during the treatment. Patients receive their set of aligners in the mail with instructions included. While these aligners can sit over the wisdom teeth, dental crowns, and fillings, they cannot move any implants into position.
Patients have to wear the aligners for 22 hours a day except when drinking, eating, or brushing their teeth. They should change the sets every couple of weeks after the teeth have moved into position. Patients may experience some soreness when first inserted, and the total treatment period should last about 4-6 months. Patients need to wear a retainer once the treatment is complete, and the retainers should be worn 24 hours before switching to a night time schedule for the first two weeks.
SmileDirectClub has its own whitening kit that they claim works three times faster than regular whitening strips. The kit comes with nine whitening pens and an LED mouthguard wirelessly connected to any smartphone. Patients need to apply the gel first to the teeth, avoiding the gums. The next step is to insert the LED mouthguard that requires 5 minutes of exposure. After the treatment, patients can rinse their mouths and clean the appliance with lukewarm water. The whitening kit can be used in the morning and evening for one week every six months. Patients should also avoid any food and drinks that could stain the teeth for 24 hours after the treatment.
