SmileDirectClub filed a $2.8 billion lawsuit against NBCUniversal Media on May 18, claiming the news publication ignored facts and broadcast a story with over 40 errors in it.
SmileDirectClub accuses NBC of publishing a misleading story in which NBC said some customers reported painful problems when using the at-home dental alignment product. The investigative journalism piece also included a quote from a SmileDirect employee claiming dentists weren't required to review patients before treatment, which SmileDirect has refuted.
The teledentistry company argues that NBC and reporter Vicky Nguyen "knowingly and intentionally" made "factually inaccurate, misleading and defamatory claims."
The lawsuit wants to hold NBC accountable "for its abuse of power and betrayal of trust," adding that, "Readers across the country turn to the media for the information they need to make decisions about their health and well-being."
SmileDirect said its market cap dropped $950 million after the NBC report.
An NBC spokesperson told The Hill that the company stands by its reporting and "believe[s] this is a meritless claim."