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Updated on cali sikisJanuary 16, 2024:As of December 2023, Smile Direct Club has shuttered its businessin Australia and around the world. More information can be found on the company's website.
If you’ve lived with wonky, misaligned teeth for any length of time, you’ll know that they can be crushing to your self-confidence, and feel like an impossible, exorbitantly expensive procedure to straighten them again. In comes SmileDirectClub, an affordable, effective way to straighten your teeth, without costly in-person orthodontic sessions, and with aligners conveniently delivered to your home. It almost sounds too good to be true, which is why we’ve set out to take a deep dive into the service, and find out everything you need to know about SmileDirectClub in Australia.
What is SmileDirectClub?
SmileDirectClub is a telehealth leader that offers doctor-directed clear aligner treatment for those who want to straighten their teeth from the comfort of their home. SmileDirectClub focuses on accessibility and convenience through the power of technology. The company was founded in the USA in Nashville, Tennessee in 2014, and notes that they helped over 1.8 million people worldwide since then. SmileDirectClub is known for its innovative, tech-driven approach to orthodontic treatment, which allows patients to straighten their teeth from the comfort of their own home, using clear aligners delivered straight to their door.
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How does SmileDirectClub work?
Consumers can begin their Smile Journey™ via the AI-powered SmileMaker Platform on the SmileDirectClub app. The process begins with a 3D scan via the app that takes photos of your teeth, bite and alignment, and leverages the data from their 1.8 million customers to create a personalised treatment plan (or “Custom Smile Plan”), which includes a 3D model of what your straighter smile could look like and how long treatment could take. Most consumers will be able to choose between two types of aligners:
Full Time Aligners:These aligners are worn full-time except when eating or drinking, and produce the fastest results. Patients can expect to see a real difference in as little as 4-6 months.
Nighttime Aligners™:These aligners are worn only at night, and aim to straighten your teeth while you’re sleeping, to cut back on the inconvenience or potential discomfort of all-day use. These provide results in an average of 10+ months with 10 hours of continuous nighttime wear.
More information about the aligners and treatment times is available on SmileDirectClub’s website.
After you make your choice, and aligners are purchased, a licensed dentist reviews and approves your “Smile Prescription”, which outlines the steps necessary to achieve your desired smile, and your custom aligners are made and shipped. Throughout the treatment process, you’ll have access to a dental team who can answer questions and provide guidance about the teeth straightening process. So, you can be rest assured that your teeth are in good hands throughout your dental journey.
How much does SmileDirectClub cost?
There are two different options for payment. If you’ve got the cash upfront, the Single Pay option will provide the most value for your money. However, SmileDirectClub also offers a payment plan option with SmilePay™, allowing you to make low monthly payments. Here’s how these two options break down over time:
Single Pay:AUD $3,149 (One-time payment)
SmilePay:AUD $3,539 ($135 per month for 24 months with $299 deposit)
Learn more about SmileDirectClub’s pricing on their website.
How long do SmileDirectClub aligners take to work?
Once your treatment plan is approved, SmileDirectClub creates a series of clear aligners that are designed to gradually move the teeth into their desired position. Customers wear each aligner for about two weeks before moving on to the next one in the series. Depending on your choice of Fulltime or Nighttime aligners, as well as the complexity of your specific case, treatment times may vary. However, typically speaking, you should expect to see results in as little as four to ten months*.
Is SmileDirectClub the right option for you?
While there are some risks associated with any medical or dental treatment, SmileDirectClub is considered effective for many people. This method of teeth alignment is tried and tested, and trusted worldwide. To increase safety, SmileDirectClub partners with a network of licensed dentists to oversee the treatment process and create a personalised treatment plan for each customer. However, it's important to note that not everyone is a good candidate for SmileDirectClub. The company recommends that customers have a dental exam and receive clearance from a dentist before beginning treatment. Additionally, some dental issues may require more extensive treatment than what SmileDirectClub can provide, and in those cases, a traditional orthodontic treatment may be necessary.
When all is said and done, SmileDirectClub can be an effective option for many people who want to straighten their teeth. It’s convenient, considerably more affordable than traditional orthodontics, and can provide great flexibility with both its aligners and its payment options. However, there is no true one-size-fits-all option when it comes to our bodies. It's important to first consult with a licensed dentist to determine if SmileDirectClub aligners are the right option for you. Want to learn more? Get started by downloading the free SmileDirectClub app.
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*Typical Fulltime Aligner treatment plans are 4–6 months. Typical Nighttime Aligner™ treatment plans are 8-10 months with 10 hours of continuous nighttime wear. See SmileDirectClub.com/claims for details. Results may vary.
SmileDirectClub aligners are custom-made aligners that gradually straighten your teeth. An Australian registered dentist will assess if you’re eligible for treatment. You should always read the label and follow the instructions for use. Treatment results may vary. Find health warnings at SmileDirectClub.com.au/precautions.