Orthodontics with aligners: the dangers of doing it without supervision

Orthodontic treatment with invisible aligners is safe as long as it is diagnosed, planned, and implemented by a licensed dentist.

Social media has become a popular source of information for the public, meaning that users frequently encounter advertisements, many of which come from companies selling invisible aligners online. These companies often use influencers to promote their services without clarifying that these treatments should always be carried out by a licensed dentist to ensure proper execution.

For years, the General Council of Dentists has been denouncing the way these companies operate, offering orthodontic treatments with clear aligners without the supervision of a dentist, attracting patients' attention by promising "miraculous" results within short timeframes.

In some cases, the patient visits the establishment only once to have a digital impression taken, after which they receive all the aligners supposedly needed for their treatment. Sometimes, the patient themselves takes photos and molds at home, sends them to the company through an app, and then receives the aligners, which they must change according to the instructions provided by the company. This means that at no point is a proper diagnosis conducted, nor is the treatment monitored by a dentist, posing a significant risk to the patient's oral health.

"An inadequateorthodontictreatment can cause maxillofacial and periodontal problems and even lead to tooth loss." Moreover, these companies shift all responsibility for the treatment to the patients themselves and seek ways to avoid liability.

When undergoing any dental treatment, it is crucial to visit a dental clinic where a licensed dentist can perform a diagnosis, develop a treatment plan, and provide proper follow-up care for each patient, ensuring their progress is monitored until the successful completion of the treatment.