More news about direct to consumer orthodontic treatment comes from the American Dental Association (ADA). The ADA has filed a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) Division of Consumer Protection regarding aspects of the marketing and sales of direct-to-consumer plastic teeth aligners. This follows their citizen’s petition sent in June to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) which stated that the public is being put at risk by companies that are knowingly evading the FDA’s “by prescription only” restriction that the agency placed on teeth-aligning materials.
“The ADA took these actions out of concern for patient safety and to enable consumers to take action when negative treatment outcomes occur.”
~Dr. Jeffrey M. Cole, ADA President
Other concerns put forth by the ADA include the fact that instead of having patients examined by dentists, patients are self-reporting their dental own condition which “does not satisfy a dentist’s required professional due diligence.” Dr. Cole states that, “Moving teeth without knowing all aspects of a patients oral condition has the potential to cause the patient harm.”
“Orthodontic treatment, if not done properly, could lead to potential bone loss, lost teeth, receding gums, bite problems, jaw pain, and other issues.”
~Dr. Jeffrey M. Cole, ADA President
The American Dental Association, the American Association of Orthodontics, and I agree that using a direct-to-consumer company could put the long term health of your teeth, gums, and bite at risk. Please see a licensed orthodontist to address all of your orthodontic concerns.
If you were treated by a DIY/direct-to-consumer company and feel you have received a bad outcome, you may report it via the FDA’s Med-Watch voluntary reporting form.