Why Mail-Order Aligners Aren’t Worth the Risk

Braces and clear aligners like Invisalign® have become a standard part of orthodontic care for kids, teens, and adults looking to achieve a confident, healthy smile. As the demand for orthodontic treatment grows, so does the appeal of quick and convenient options. Recently, mail-order aligners have gained popularity by promising straighter teeth without the need for in-office visits. While this might seem like a hassle-free solution, the reality is that mail-order aligners can be risky and often lead to more harm than good.

Orthodontic treatment isn’t just about aesthetics—it involves precise, controlled tooth movement that should always be monitored by a professional. At Hawkley Orthodontics, Dr. Pehrson Hawkley provides expert care using advanced technology, digital imaging, and hands-on supervision to ensure your treatment is safe and effective. Mail-order aligners bypass these essential steps, leaving patients vulnerable to serious dental complications. Before considering a direct-to-consumer aligner company, here are three key reasons why professional, in-person orthodontic treatment is the best choice for your smile.

You Never See an Orthodontist in Person

Mail-order aligner companies focus on straightening teeth but often overlook the fact that orthodontic treatment is a medical procedure requiring expert supervision. Moving teeth affects the entire structure of your mouth, including the jawbone, gums, and bite alignment. Without in-person exams, digital imaging, and ongoing professional oversight, patients risk developing long-term dental issues.

At Hawkley Orthodontics, we create a customized treatment plan based on a full evaluation of your teeth and jaw structure. Dr. Hawkley monitors your progress through in-office visits, ensuring your treatment stays on track and adjustments are made as needed. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) strongly advises against mail-order orthodontics, stating that in-person assessments, X-rays, and professional guidance are essential for safe and effective results.

Aligners Don’t Work for Everyone

Not all orthodontic cases can be treated with clear aligners. Some patients require braces to correct severe crowding, overbites, underbites, or jaw misalignment. A mail-order company relies solely on at-home impressions, which can’t fully assess whether aligners are the right choice for a patient’s unique dental needs. In some cases, using aligners incorrectly can lead to irreversible damage, including gum recession, loose teeth, or bite misalignment.

Dr. Hawkley carefully evaluates each patient’s needs and determines whether Invisalign® or braces will provide the best results. When you receive treatment from a certified orthodontist, you can trust that your smile is in expert hands, ensuring safe and predictable tooth movement.

Mail-Order Aligners May Be More Expensive in the Long Run

While mail-order aligners may seem like a more affordable option upfront, they can often end up costing patients more in the long run. Many direct-to-consumer aligner companies offer financing plans with high-interest rates, making treatment more expensive over time. Meanwhile, many orthodontists, including Hawkley Orthodontics, offer flexible, interest-free payment plans to make treatment more affordable.

Additionally, many patients who try mail-order aligners find themselves needing retreatment from a professional orthodontist to correct issues caused by improper aligner use. This means paying for orthodontic care twice—once for the ineffective mail-order aligners and again for professional treatment. Investing in expert orthodontic care from the start ensures you get the best results without unnecessary risks or added costs.

Mail-order orthodontic treatments may promise convenience, but they often come with serious drawbacks, including lack of supervision, improper treatment, and additional costs. At Hawkley Orthodontics, we are dedicated to providing safe, effective, and personalized orthodontic care that prioritizes your health and long-term results.

If you’re ready to start your journey to a confident, beautiful smile with expert care, schedule a free consultation with Hawkley Orthodontics today!