Have you ever heard the story of the tortoise and the hare? You know, the one where the slow turtle takes on the quick rabbit in a long-distance race to the finish line. So the story goes, the rabbit takes off rapidly, leaving the turtle in the dust. Shortly after, he gets tired, stops to rest, and while he’s dreaming, the tortoise takes the lead and wins the race. This childhood story tells a valuable lesson: faster and easier isn’t always better — it’s slow and steady that wins the race. In other words, quality work trumps rushed work any day.
When it comes to orthodontic treatment, the same lesson applies. Steady, quality orthodontics takes the time to get your treatment right the first time. However, there will always be a rabbit in the race that seems like a good contender at first. In the world of orthodontics, the rabbit is mail-ordered treatment.
It’s no secret that mail-order orthodontics is trending. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, you may think it’s the option for you, but RiverView Orthodontics has the evidence to prove that traditional orthodontics really wins the race. Keep reading to learn the three things you won’t get with mail-order orthodontics.
First thing’s first: what is mail-order treatment?
Mail-order aligners are a part of the online orthodontics trend that makes promises it can’t keep. Using a series of clear aligner trays, this form of orthodontic treatment promises to deliver you a straight smile without the need to leave your home for orthodontic appointments.
Instead of seeing an orthodontist to get your aligners, you can order them online, use an app to track your progress, and never step foot in an orthodontist’s office throughout your treatment process. Mail-order aligners offer to make orthodontic treatment quick and easy, without the hard work that professional orthodontists have always taken to straighten your smile. Sound familiar?
#1. You won’t get total orthodontic treatment
Professional orthodontics is all about total oral health care. Orthodontists like Dr. Upton spend years in school learning how to adjust your facial bone structure with precision and accuracy so you’ll be proud of your smile. In fact, many orthodontic issues lie below the gum line, where only X-rays can reveal their true condition. Only an expert who knows how to account for your total oral care can treat these issues.
Because online orthodontics only requires cell phone pictures to determine your treatment plan, mail-order aligners can’t correct the orthodontic issues below the surface and can even make them worse.
#2. You won’t get a personalized treatment plan
If you’re looking for quality care designed just for you, you won’t get it with online orthodontics. The typical, high-quality orthodontic treatment process requires you to meet for an initial assessment with a professional orthodontist to determine the right treatment plan for your needs. Depending on the severity of your case and your smile goals, Dr. Upton will design a custom treatment plan that meets your specific needs and requirements.
On the other hand, mail-order aligners treat orthodontics like a one-size-fits-all process. This approach can be highly problematic for the success of your treatment plan because it won’t take your body’s individual response to braces into account, and it won’t be able to adapt along with your smile.
It’s also important to remember that not everyone is a good candidate for clear aligner trays. Some people, especially those with more severe conditions, need traditional metal braces for treatment to work. Without a professional orthodontist designing and overseeing a treatment plan just for you, you may end up with the wrong treatment method.
#3. You won’t get the same bang for your buck
Orthodontic treatment is an investment in your smile. Although mail-order orthodontic companies promise cheaper services, the discount you’re getting comes at the cost of quality treatment. You won’t be able to meet with an orthodontist in person, mail-order aligners won’t customize your treatment for your unique needs, and you could end up needing further corrective treatment in the long run.
When you meet with Dr. Upton, on the other hand, you’ll recognize his quality RiverView care from the start. You’ll never have to worry that your treatment lacks what it needs to give you a smile you deserve, and with our convenient payment plans, you won’t have trouble paying for treatment.
RiverView Invisalign: The Better Clear Aligner
Maybe you’re married to the idea of straightening your teeth without the bulky wires and brackets of braces, but now you’re wary of online orthodontics. Don’t worry! We have the perfect treatment plan for you.
Like mail-order aligners, Invisalign from RiverView Orthodontics uses a series of clear aligner trays to shift your smile in gear over time. However, Dr. Upton personally designs your aligners to fit your unique needs, so you don’t get cookie-cutter treatment.
Choose Quality at RiverView Orthodontics
Don’t go with unreliable mail-order programs if you’re considering getting treatment. Stick with the professionals and schedule your free consultation today! Our team of experts at RiverView Orthodontics is here to help you get the smile of your dreams with the quality care you deserve.