Erie, Harborcreek and Millcreek, PA
Smiling is the universal sign of happiness and acceptance. That’s why it’s no surprise that having a beautiful straight smile is important to many people. Unfortunately, few people have great-looking smiles naturally. Many people need orthodontic treatment to obtain that dream smile. This is where things get tricky. Due to recent coronavirus shutdown, many people are left stuck at home for the next few weeks, and unable to get to their cosmetic dentist in Erie for an appointment. Orthodontics have gained some fantastic new options over the last decade or so, yet there’s one option that Laser Dentistry of Erie believes you shouldn’t consider: mail-order orthodontics. Here are five reasons why.
Patient Examinations Should Be the First Step
Orthodontics should include a comprehensive dental exam. Beginning orthodontic treatment without this in-person exam could compromise your oral health. Attempting to save money by purchasing mail-order orthodontics could end up costing you more money in the long run if that treatment damages your teeth. Avoid these problems by pursuing orthodontic treatment from a qualified dentist like Dr. Albert Starr at Laser Dentistry of Erie.
Routine Checkups Are Necessary
A licensed dental professional should always supervise orthodontic treatment. At Laser Dentistry of Erie, we require routine checkups during orthodontic treatment to ensure teeth move properly, without negative consequences to your oral health. If you had a problem arise using mail-order treatment or needed to alter your treatment program, would you know what to do or how to do it? Would you know if there was a problem before it was too late? Not having a certified, experienced professional oversee your orthodontic treatment could mean you end up with negative results. While getting started on your orthodontic treatment might be delayed for a few weeks, you can contact Laser Dentistry of Erie today to set up an appointment for a consultation to take place after the shutdown has been lifted.
It Could Ruin Your Teeth
It isn’t often that people gamble with something they value. Using mail-order orthodontics is gambling with your oral health. It could affect both the appearance and functionality of your smile and cause irreversible damage to your teeth. Orthodontics slowly move teeth, ligaments, and even shift the supporting bone structure to align your smile. In some cases, mail-in orthodontic patients report not being able to bite down after undergoing mail-order aligners. You know when to hold ’em and know when to fold ’em, so don’t waste your money betting on the wrong house when Laser Dentistry of Erie has the winner you need with our own professionally approved and managed orthodontic treatments.
ADA Disapproves
The American Dental Association is designed to keep people safe from improper dental practices, and they are speaking out against mail-order aligners. Mail-order orthodontics and the use of these products are dangerous and not approved by the ADA. As a licensed dentist, Dr. Albert Starr supports the ADA and its recommendations for dental health. Why use unsafe and uncertified methods when there ADA-approved orthodontics that provides safe and time-tested positive results?
Everyone’s Needs are Different
Clear aligner therapy isn’t the right choice for everyone. A dentist or orthodontist should evaluate the candidacy of each patient that considers clear aligner treatment. If your teeth are severely misaligned, or you have TMJ disorder, then traditional metal braces may be a better option in this case.
Invisalign in Erie
Clear aligner therapy is extremely popular, and for a good reason. The aligners are discreet and removable. However, clear aligner therapy is not suited for everyone. It should only be used if designated by a proper dental professional. Dr. Albert Starr is a licensed Invisalign provider in Erie. So, while you are stuck at home during a shelter-in-place, don’t be tempted by mail-order orthodontics. Invisalign is worth the wait!
If you would like more information regarding clear aligner orthodontics offered by Dr. Albert Starr at Laser Dentistry of Erie, or you want to see if you would be a good candidate for Invisalign, contact our office by calling (814) 825-2615 if you live in the areas of Harborcreek, Millcreek, and Erie, PA.