In traditional dentistry, train-track braces and clear aligners are fitted by dentists and orthodontists themselves, or a trained orthodontic therapist, after an in-person consultation. The health of the hard and soft tissues of the mouth, the teeth and gums, and whether the roots of the teeth can sustain movement, are some of the factors dentists consider. X-rays are instrumental in this process. Once someone starts wearing braces, regular appointments allow dentists to monitor how teeth are moving and to spot and address complications. When we talk about direct-to-consumer or online clear aligners, we mean the ones you can buy over the internet, without the help of a dentist. These options are increasingly popular with people and given they can be up to 60% cheaper than prescribed alternatives through a dentist or orthodontist, you can see why it’s an attractive option at face value. However, these cost savings are possible because of the minimal level of care you receive. Generally, the online clear aligner process involves consumers taking an impression of their teeth at home, sending that off, then receiving clear aligners through the post, and going through the treatment without any dentist intervention. This kind of minimum supervision orthodontic treatment can result in poor outcomes or permanent damage to innocent patients who get influenced by these advertisements. It can be tempting to choose the cheaper route for anything, especially as budgets continue to be squeezed. But there’s a reason why dentists are speaking out about the dangers of online clear aligners. Many have seen the pain and damage caused when patients have chosen to straighten their teeth at home. Ultimately, the risk to our oral health through cheap, online options like this is never worth it. Your teeth and gums are integral to your overall health and happiness, and just like any other medical treatment, you deserve to be in the hands of a trusted, qualified professional. Dr. Deepak Kamalanathan, one of the leading prosthodontists in Chennai, brings years of experience in advanced dental care to his flourishing practice at Apple Dental. He is well-versed on advanced dental technologies. Services provided by the doctor include Zirconia, DMLS and PFM Crowns, Implant Prosthesis, Full Mouth Oral Rehabilitation, Veneers, BPS Dentures Fixing, Smile Design, Implant Retained Dentures etc. With highly trained dental team and state-of-the-art facilities, he is passionate about bringing high quality dental care to his patients at affordable costs. Want to make an informed decision about your dental treatment? Visit us @Apple Dental for a consultation where our dental experts can provide recommendations based on your medical history and clinical assessment to help you choose the most effective treatment option. Don’t wait any longer to achieve your perfect smile. Let us help you restore your confidence and improve your oral health. From routine check-ups to complex procedures, our team of dental experts at Apple Dental have got you covered.