In the second half of last year, SmileDirectClub filed for bankruptcy and announced that it would cease its global operations. The firm had many customers, and these people have been left with a lot of uncertainty. The company has shut down its customer care support services and not much has been said about possible refunds. Here’s what you should know about this situation and how you can continue your treatment with a real orthodontist.
Why Is SmileDirectClub Shutting Down?
SmileDirectClub has served more than two million customers since it was founded in 2014. Its plan was to sell clear dental aligners as a faster and cheaper alternative to braces, and it sold its products through the mail or through major retailers. While the company was valued at around $8.9 billion when it started being publicly traded in 2019, stocks fell after several unprofitable years. Professional orthodontics organizations and the American Dental Association had long discouraged people from using the service, and it was increasingly hard for the company to stay competitive.
What Happens to Their Existing Customers?
SmileDirectClub has confirmed that its telehealth services for aligner treatment have ceased operation, meaning that the company’s many customers no longer have access to providers. Understandably, this has caused a great deal of frustration for people who were expecting to have access to the services they paid for. The company has issued apologies for the inconvenience and encourages customers to consult with their local dentist or orthodontist for further treatment.
What Can an Orthodontist Do for Me?
Orthodontic treatments have allowed millions of people to straighten their smiles into healthier alignments. This can make teeth easier to clean, more visually appealing, and harder to injure while also correcting bite issues that lead to headaches, neck pain, or TMJ issues. Traditional metal braces are a tried-and-true way to correct even complex orthodontic cases, and Invisalign has given many people better alignments without dietary restrictions and while being virtually invisible.
If you’re one of the many SmileDirectClub customers who were left out in the cold, don’t give up on having a prettier smile. Consulting with your orthodontist can set you on the track to a healthier, better alignment.
About the Author
Dr. Frances Hamman earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from Creighton University in 1991 and her degree in orthodontics from Case Western Reserve University in 1993. She is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists. Her office in Ripon, WI offers traditional braces and Invisalign treatments. To schedule an orthodontics consultation, contact her office online or dial (920) 748-7130.
