The internet makes it easy to immediately get nearly anything you want without leaving your couch. This trend has even hit the orthodontic world, with mail-ordered aligners gaining popularity daily. But is a DIY orthodontic treatment worth it? Let’s look at five things you won’t get with mail-order orthodontics and why in-person treatment is the best option for your smile.
Mail-order aligners rely on lower prices and fewer trips to the orthodontist’s office. We know mail-ordering orthodontic treatment may seem convenient, but you might be surprised that most orthodontists and dentists won’t recommend them. Let’s look at some of the things you won’t get with mail-order orthodontic treatment and how Buttram Orthodontics can efficiently and effectively give you the smile you deserve!
Lower Cost and Quicker Results
Let’s get this assumption out of the way first. The old saying that you get what you pay for is never more true than when it comes to your orthodontic treatment. While mail-order options may seem quick and inexpensive, the potential risks can cost you more in the long run since you won’t get the supervised care that a trained orthodontist provides.
Utilizing all options specific to your dental situation while under specialized care is the only way to ensure the quickest and most beneficial method to a better smile. Most orthodontists can now compete with the prices that mail-order aligners boast. Here at Buttram Orthodontics, we offer a variety of patient-specific payment plans and accept most orthodontic dental insurance to provide outstanding value for a reasonable price.
In-Person Clinical Exam
The best way to get the result you’re looking for is by thoroughly evaluating your starting point. During your initial examination, Dr. Buttram will look at the tissue and bone supporting your teeth using digital photographs, take full mouth X-rays, and a digital scan that is so precise it can eliminate the need for goopy impressions.
This detailed information ensures clear aligners are the proper route for your treatment plan and avoid complications later from cavities, gum disease, and other related problems not picked up in basic impressions or photos.
With mail-order aligners, the first step is receiving your in-home impression kit. Some options ask you to include intraoral photos, but the information used to determine eligibility is very basic. Once you mail the impression back, a dentist or technician will review it and decide if you’re a good candidate for clear aligners.
Eligibility is based on your current tooth alignment and doesn’t consider many essential components of the orthodontic process. Without considering all the variables, you may get subpar results, which could cost you more time and money.
Customized Treatment Plans
Your teeth and gums should be in good condition before we attempt tooth movement to avoid unexpected problems. While clear aligners can be an excellent option for many patients, they aren’t for everyone.
Some cases are more severe or require specific treatments before starting the movement of your teeth. In cases where more precise or complicated movements are needed, you may save time and money by opting for traditional metal or clear braces.
At Buttram Orthodontics, we consider your individual needs and goals before creating your treatment plan. We want to ensure that our treatment plan will make the best use of your time and goals while utilizing our expertise in orthodontic care.
We’ll use the information from your in-office consultation and the data from your imaging to determine what will fit your lifestyle with the most outstanding results.
Supervision During Treatment
During your treatment, your teeth may move slower or faster than anticipated, things can come up that require adjustments, or we may need to modify your treatment plan. This is why having regular check-ins with Dr. Buttram is crucial during your aligner process.
When you choose mail-order aligners, they’ll give you a treatment timeline based on your initial teeth impressions. This includes what should happen over time but doesn’t account for any deviations that may pop up unexpectedly. This hands-off calendar approach can cause severe damage to your teeth, gums, and jaw.
Treatment for Other Orthodontic Needs
Many orthodontic issues lie below the gum line and with the jaw, where messy impressions and cell phone images can’t capture the details. These issues can’t be treated with mail-order aligners and can get worse by using them. With this treatment method, processes like widening your jaw, aligning your bite, and correcting rotations also can’t be accomplished.
It is more effective to know your specific orthodontic concerns ahead of time so you can have the best possible outcome. Dr. Buttram can assess your condition throughout the process, allowing him to adjust as necessary to create your perfect smile.
Trust Buttram Orthodontics for Efficient and Affordable Treatment
You wouldn’t go on a road trip without researching the best route to get you there that aligns with your needs and goal. Don’t start your orthodontic treatment without the same consideration!
Our expert team at Buttram Orthodontics takes pride in making your experience pleasant and personalized, from your free consultation to your final checkup. Schedule your FREE consultation in Panama City today, and let us help you confidently navigate this journey.
