In the quest for better-looking teeth, there’s sometimes no limit to the things that some people will try, especially when it’s hyped up so much in the media. DIY teeth straightening kits have come on the market, and they are definitely a case where, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. The reality is that there are so many risks associated with this kind of thing, that your orthodontist in West Columbia, SC feels the need to warn people about it. Here’s what you need to know about the potential dangers of DIY teeth straightening.

Potential for Tooth Damage

You don’t know exactly what’s causing your misalignment. It could be any number of things, including wisdom tooth crowding, which no aligners will fix by themselves. An orthodontist first uses technologically-advanced digital imaging techniques to determine the underlying cause of the alignment trouble, which directly informs the treatment plan. Using DIY aligners at home, without the care of an orthodontist could make things much worse for you. And, without proper materials or professional techniques, these kits have the potential to damage tooth enamel. In turn, this often leads to cavities and long-term dental problems long after you’ve realized the dangers of DIY teeth straighteners; too little, too late.

Lack of Professional Supervision

DIY teeth straightening doesn’t offer the professional oversight of care that you need. Professional orthodontists are specially trained to assess and diagnose complex dental issues having to do with alignment. You’re essentially working blind when you try to take matters into your own hands with DIY teeth straighteners. You wouldn’t do that with any other part of your body, so why attempt it with something so important as your teeth?

Inaccurate Results and Unpredictability

Orthodontic treatment requires precision to achieve the desired results. Professional orthodontists use advanced tools like 3D scans and X-rays to design a treatment plan that ensures teeth are moved safely and effectively. DIY kits typically lack these technological advantages, leading to unpredictable results.

While DIY teeth straightening kits may seem tempting, they pose significant risks to your dental health. For the best orthodontic treatment in West Columbia, SC, contact Davis Orthodontics today.