It seems too good to be true – a picture-perfect smile at a fraction of the price, without a trip to the dentist. What could go wrong?

There is a growing trend especially over on social media platforms for “DIY” or “Direct-to-consumer” orthodontic products being offered within Australia. Whats even more frightening is that these clear Invisalign style aligners are being advertised and sold directly to consumers online without any face to face examination or consultation. We want to urge all our patients be extremely cautious of such offers and operate on the basis of if it seems too good to be true – it probably is!

Orthodontic procedures should be carried out by an orthodontist. A true Orthodontist is a dental specialist that has undertaken 3 years of speciality training on top of their general dental degree. This specialist university degree equips them with the knowledge, and skills in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Click here to learn more about the differences between a Dentist and an Orthodontist and how they work together for optimal results.

We are spoilt for choice for fantastic orthodontists in Brisbane so if orthodontics is on your radar feel free to chat with one of our dentists when your next in. They can point you in the right direction! You have every right as a patient to ask your treating doctor what training they have undertaken to perform such treatments. Remember there is a reason it takes 3 long years for an orthodontist to learn the specialised skills required. There are so many moving parts to consider when planning such treatments and its not worth taking short cuts that will affect your long term health.

Read more on the consumer warning issues by Orthodontics Australia here