SmileDirectClub has been operating globally for about a decade. In that time, over two million people have invested in their mail-in aligner program in hopes of a more affordable, reliable, and convenient alternative to braces. If you are a current customer of theirs, you may be surprised to hear this news, and even more concerned about what to do next. Read on to learn how dentists recommend moving on from SmileDirectClub safely without compromising your dream of a straighter smile.
Why is the Company Closing Its Doors?
SmileDirectClub initially opened in 2014 with a goal of offering mail-in orthodontics to consumers across the globe. Not only will their customers never have to leave the house for a check-in or to get their new sets of trays, but this was also a much cheaper option. After becoming a publicly traded stock in 2019, people witnessed the value of their business plummet, ultimately losing $86.4 million, as well as receiving over 2,000 nationwide complaints with the Better Business Bureau. These complaints were due to customer service issues, faulty orthodontic trays, payment issues, and more.
All of these events ultimately came to a head at the end of 2023 when they announced that they were officially declaring bankruptcy and ending their global operations immediately, leaving hundreds of thousands of customers wondering, “What’s next?”
What Should Existing Customers Do Next?
Per SmileDirectClub’s website, they are no longer providing aligner treatment through their telehealth system, meaning existing customers will not be able to carry on with their treatment. If you’ve invested in their clear aligners and have your heart set on seeing your treatment through to the end, the next step will be to find a dentist that can help you finish your journey.
You may opt for Invisalign clear aligners, which are discreet and virtually unnoticeable like SmileDirectClub trays. This treatment is provided by many dentists and only involves short follow-up appointments. One great benefit of going this route is that your entire treatment will be overseen by a trained professional, so you can rest-assured that if any issues arise, they’ll be addressed immediately.
SmileDirectClub also states that any order that hasn’t shipped yet will be canceled, and treatment will no longer be available through their platform, effective immediately. They recommend that their customers consult their local dentist to learn how they can continue their aligner treatment.
Although this news can be a shock and inconvenience, there may still be a silver lining to it all. When you invest in professionally overseen treatment from a dentist, you won’t have to worry about shipping delays, having difficulty getting in-touch with customer service, or defective aligners. Every aspect of your Invisalign treatment will be meticulously ironed out, ensuring that you’re able to receive long-lasting results and a smooth-sailing process.
About the Author
Dr. Rafiq Hirji has been practicing dentistry for over a decade. In that time, he has helped hundreds, if not thousands, of his patients address orthodontic problems by offering traditional braces as well as Invisalign aligners. He has received advanced education in a range of specialty dental areas, including orthodontics, and offers a comprehensive menu of services as well as custom-tailored treatments. For questions about continuing your orthodontic journey, visit Daily Smiles MacArthur Dental & Orthodontics’ website or call 972-546-4114.