The Risks of Buying Dental Braces and Aligners Online

In recent years, social media platforms like TikTok have popularized the idea of purchasing dental braces and teeth aligners online. While these DIY orthodontic solutions may seem like a budget-friendly and convenient alternative, they pose serious risks. Many dentists warn that skipping professional supervision in favor of an online purchase can lead to long-term oral health complications. If you're looking for safe and effective orthodontic treatment, book a FREE orthodontic assessment with our dentists at By The Lake Dental – your favourite dental office in Ajax and Scarborough.

The Dangers of DIY Orthodontic Treatments

Dr. Tamer Mohsin Abusalah, a General Practitioner Dental, emphasizes that social media trends have created a false sense of security around DIY orthodontic treatments. The most crucial part of any orthodontic procedure is a professional diagnosis, which includes:

✔ A thorough evaluation of the teeth and jaw

✔ Radiographic imaging to assess bone structure

✔ A customized treatment plan designed by an experienced dentist

Online braces and aligners lack these critical steps, increasing the chances of misalignment, improper tooth movement, and irreversible damage. Professional dental care follows evidence-based practices to ensure the best possible results, whereas online alternatives come with uncertainty and potential harm.

Regulatory Warnings Against Online Orthodontic Treatments

Health organizations worldwide have issued warnings against unregulated DIY orthodontic products. In the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) has raised concerns about these treatments, and the General Dental Council stresses the importance of in-person examinations at a certified dental office before starting any orthodontic procedure.

The True Cost of Cutting Corners

Dr. Arshad Ahmed Abbasi, a Specialist Orthodontist and Dento-Facial Orthopedic Surgeon, says that cutting costs by opting for these online products can come at a much higher cost in the long run. The true cost of circumventing professional dental care can be substantial, as individuals may end up with irreversible long-term negative consequences. There is no direct contact between the provider and the patient during an online treatment, and no assessment of their dental health to determine the best course of action. A provider's authenticity and credibility are crucial, as patients may not be able to differentiate between orthodontists, dentists, or IT experts.

Dr. Abbasi believes that these concerns must be addressed in order to educate patients about the potential long-term effects of these products on their health. He says that most patients choose these options due to a lack of awareness, low prices, and the desire to save time, and the only way to address this issue is to raise awareness. He stresses the importance of seeking opinions from clinical experts, as social media and digital platforms play a vital role in decision-making but should not be relied upon when it comes to clinical judgments that impact patient health.

Read more on this Alarabiya News article.

Why Professional Dental Care Matters

According to Dr. Patricia Khamis-Silva, DDS at By The Lake Dental, studies indicate that 75% of people, including adults, have some sort of orthodontic issues and each case requires a unique approach. “The only way to determine the proper treatment is through a professional evaluation. Modern technologies can enhance the accuracy of assessments and the efficacy of treatments, but they cannot replace the trained eye and humanized approach of a dentist” said Khamis-Silva.

Choose Safe and Effective Orthodontic Treatment

If you are considering braces or aligners, By The Lake Dental offers Invisalign and Orthodontics treatments tailored to your unique needs. Our dental office combines state-of-the-art technology with a patient-centric approach to ensure safe, efficient, and effective results. All of this led us to be recognized by Invisalign and the American Academy of Clear Aligners as a Platinum Plus Invisalign dental office, which means we are among the top Invisalign providers in Canada!

Don’t gamble with your smile! Book a FREE orthodontic consultation today at By The Lake Dental and let our expert dentists help you achieve a healthier and more confident smile!

Why Choose By The Lake Dental:

✅ +10 years caring for our community’s oral health needs

✅ A Platinum+ Invisalign dental office

✅ Direct billing to benefit provider

✅ Cutting-edge technology

✅ Full service family care

✅ Concierge experience

𝗪𝗲'𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗰𝗰𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗡𝗘𝗪 𝗣𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗦

Call us today: Ajax 905-428-2111, Highland Creek 416-284-8282.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT