The American Association of Orthodontists is offering guidance to SmileDirectClub patients after the teledentistry company announced it had shut down and filed for bankruptcy.
Here are the steps the organization is advising for patients of SmileDirectClub and other mail-order orthodontics companies:
1. Make an appointment with a licensed orthodontist in your area.
2. At the appointment, tell the orthodontist about all your concerns, past treatments and current situation.
3. When booking your appointment, ask about complimentary consultations offered by many orthodontists who are part of the AAO.
4. Be cautious of other mail-order orthodontics companies taking advantage of SmileDirectClub's closure. In order to avoid irreparable damage and harm, have an in-person exam and x-rays before starting any orthodontic treatments.
5. Reach out to individual state dental boards with complaints, especially if you are unable to contact the doctor who was in charge of your SmileDirectClub treatment.
The AAO represents 19,000 orthodontist members across the U.S., Canada and abroad.