We’ve been hearing from more members whose patients are curious about all of the so-called “miracle” dental products on the market – the whiteners, aligners, snoring- and grinding-prevention devices, veneers and more sold directly to consumers without a dentist’s oversight. Worse yet, our member dentists are also starting to see more damage in patients who’ve tried these “do it yourself” devices and techniques they’ve seen advertised on social media and late-night TV.
It’s a problem the ADA is tackling on several fronts (see here and here), including sharing information with patients in the dental office. If you are asked about the issue of “DIY dentistry,” the ADA offers these talking points that you can share with your patients:
- The American Dental Association and member dentists across the country are dedicated to the health and safety of the patients they serve.
- ADA policies oppose Do-It-Yourself Teeth Straightening and Direct to Consumer Dental Laboratory Services because dentists are concerned about the potential for irreversible harm to patients.
- For example, orthodontic treatment, if not done correctly, could lead to potential bone loss and receding gums, changed bites, and other issues.
- The ADA believes that for the health and well-being of the public, patient supervision by a licensed dentist is necessary for all phases of treatment.
- You can find more information on MouthHealthy.org, the ADA’s website for the public, at MouthHealthy.org/DIYdentistry.
