The phrase “Don’t try this at home” has been attached to any number of dangerous stunts that should be avoided. To this list we’d like to add the risky practice of at-home treatments to correct orthodontic conditions. The internet has given rise to a host of vendors promising buyers results at suspiciously low costs without ever setting foot in an orthodontist’s office. Our orthodontist at Windsor would like to warn you about the myriad pitfalls of do-it-yourself, at-home treatments.
The practice of moving teeth into their proper alignment is complex and requires a thorough, in-person examination and medical images to determine the optimal treatment option for each person. The health of the patient’s tooth roots and gums are among the factors that must be considered by our orthodontist that can’t be duplicated by online providers relying on photographs or digital scans.
The risks of irreparable damage caused by DIY treatments far outweigh the prospect of the bargain pricing. Infections, bite problems and even tooth extractions have resulted from unsupervised care.
The American Association of Orthodontists warns prospective DIY orthodontics customers to ask some important questions before clicking to complete their purchase:
- Will my treatment include X-rays, skeletal structure and full scans of my teeth and upper and lower jaws?
- Will my treatment be supervised by a licensed dentist or orthodontist?
- Can my teeth and gums support orthodontic treatment?
- If I have an emergency, can I see a dentist in person as part of this service?
If the answers to any of these questions are murky, that’s a huge warning sign.
It takes many years of training to become a specialist in the complex process of moving teeth for cosmetic and health benefits. The experience and patient-centered care delivered by our orthodontist at Windsor can’t be replaced by an online vendor. Please contact us for more information about our treatments or to schedule a consultation.
