SmileDirectClub shut down in December 2023 and no longer sells aligners. If you’re comparing Invisalign with at-home aligners like SmileSet, the main difference is care in person. With Invisalign, a dentist examines your teeth, scans them, places attachments if needed and checks your progress. At-home aligners rely on mailed impressions and photo check-ins.
What happened to SmileDirectClub?
SmileDirectClub stopped operating in December 2023 after its bankruptcy sale fell through. It canceled orders and ended customer support. Many patients were left partway through treatment with no way to get new aligners. If you were a SmileDirectClub patient, we can check where your teeth are now and whether Invisalign can finish the job.
There are many different options for people who want to straighten their teeth, but not all of them are the best choice for everyone. For example, many patients prefer to wear aligners over traditional braces because they are more comfortable and nearly invisible.
Both Invisalign and SmileSet use clear aligners that do not use brackets or wires like you will use with traditional metal braces. Although wearing aligners for teeth straightening is the method used by both of these systems, there are also several differences. We will compare SmileSet and Invisalign clear aligner treatment so you can decide which orthodontic treatment sounds right for you.
Dental aligners straighten teeth by moving them incrementally. Each day, you wear an aligner that moves your teeth slightly and helps to correct the alignment of your bite and jaws gradually. Aligners are dental trays made from clear plastic and custom-designed for your teeth. You’ll also need to have occasional checkups with our dental practice in Winchester or Woodstock, although these checkups may vary depending on your case. Clear aligners are a good option for moderate teeth misalignment.
| Invisalign at Tolley Dental | SmileSet (at-home) | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting point | In-office exam and 3D scan | Mail-in impression kit |
| Who oversees treatment | Your dentist, in person | A remote dentist, sometimes licensed in another state |
| Attachments | Yes, when needed for tougher tooth movements | Not offered |
| Check-ins | Office visits | Photos sent through an app |
| Best for | Mild to complex crowding, gaps and bite problems | Mild cosmetic crowding or spacing |
| Typical cost | From about $3,000, 0% interest plans available | About $1,400–$1,900 list price |
When is at-home treatment enough, and when do you need Invisalign?
At-home aligners can work for small cosmetic shifts. Invisalign is the better choice for these situations:
The Invisalign treatment process typically takes 9-15 months, which is longer than SmileSet. However, this is because it can treat a broader range of orthodontic issues and is clinically proven to be more effective.
Straightening teeth with a dental professional will ensure your treatment is safe. Dental professionals providing an in-person consultation are far more effective and accurate than remote treatment.
Many patients want to compare the price of orthodontic treatment before committing to a plan. Invisalign costs more, with the average treatment starting at $3,000. SmileSet’s invisible aligners start at $1,450. However, it’s important to note that Invisalign offers a payment plan with 0% interest. Our office will help determine if your dental insurance will cover any of your treatments.
Did your Smile Direct treatment stop partway through? Book a consultation at our Winchester or Woodstock office. We’ll scan your teeth and walk you through your options.