Itamar Friedlander. Medical director of the Friedländer clinic, Barcelona.
Achieving an attractive smile without sacrificing aesthetics seems more accessible than ever with invisible orthodontics. However, choosing the “low cost” alternative can involve serious risks. Although invisible aligners have revolutionized the world of orthodontics, achieving results without the need for braces, success always depends on the specialist performing the treatment, as it is he who provides expert planning and regular follow-up.
Growing demand has led numerous clinics and platforms to offer affordable aligners and remote treatments. However, in recent years, cases have emerged of patients with dental health problems due to the use of aligners purchased on the Internet without the correct supervision of a specialist. Both the College of Dentists of Madrid (COEM), the Spanish Society of Orthodontists (AESOR) and the Ministry of Health have warned about the dangers of these remote treatments.
Dr. Friedländer, orthodontist and director of the Clínica Friedländer in Barcelona, underlines the importance of the figure of the qualified orthodontist: “The problem is not the technology or the aligners themselves, but the lack of diagnosis and follow-up. up by an orthodontist to verify that the treatment objectives have been achieved. Without it, aligners do not achieve the desired effect and can cause bite problems, gum recession, muscle pain and even more serious complications.
Invisible orthodontics, with prices exceeding 4,000 euros, has led some patients to opt for cheaper alternatives. However, as Dr. Friedländer explains, the treatment is not that simple: each case is unique and aligners are not a universal solution. In many cases, periodic visits are necessary to evaluate hygiene, oral health and the correct progress of treatment.
Straightening your teeth is not just an aesthetic issue, but also a matter of overall health. Orthodontics is multidisciplinary and must consider surgical, periodontal and aesthetic aspects to obtain a healthy and long-lasting result. As Dr. Friedländer warns, those who choose low-cost orthodontics run the risk of wasting time, money and, above all, their health.
Time.news Interview: The Safety and Efficacy of Invisible Orthodontics
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, and welcome to Time.news. Today, we’re thrilled to have with us Dr. Itamar Friedlander, the medical director of the Friedländer Clinic in Barcelona, who is an expert in orthodontics, particularly with the rise of invisible aligners. Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Friedlander.
Dr. Friedlander: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. Invisible orthodontics has become increasingly popular for those seeking a better smile without the traditional metal braces. What do you think has driven this popularity?
Dr. Friedlander: The aesthetic appeal is certainly a major factor. Many people are looking for ways to improve their smiles without feeling self-conscious about wearing visible braces. Additionally, the advancements in technology have made invisible aligners more accessible and effective, attracting a wider audience.
Editor: That makes sense. However, I’ve read that opting for low-cost alternatives can be risky. Can you elaborate on that?
Dr. Friedlander: Absolutely. While the affordability of some aligners is enticing, it’s crucial to understand that achieving effective results requires expert knowledge and regular oversight. When patients choose low-cost options, especially those bought online without proper supervision, they often forgo the essential planning and follow-up that trained specialists provide. This can lead to serious dental health issues.
Editor: It’s a bit alarming to hear that. What specific problems have you seen arise from unsupervised aligner use?
Dr. Friedlander: There have been numerous cases of patients experiencing tooth misalignment, gum disease, and even tooth loss due to inadequate treatment planning. Invisible aligners work through gradual movements of the teeth, but when not monitored by a professional, there’s a significant risk that these movements can go awry, leading to further complications.
Editor: It sounds like the need for professional oversight is critical. What do you recommend for someone considering invisible aligners?
Dr. Friedlander: My first piece of advice is to consult with a qualified orthodontist. A thorough examination and personalized treatment plan are essential. The orthodontist will be able to determine if invisible aligners are the right choice for you and will monitor your progress throughout the treatment. It’s about balancing the desire for an attractive smile with the imperative of maintaining dental health.
Editor: That is prudent advice. It seems like a balance between aesthetics and health is key. What role do professional organizations, like the College of Dentists of Madrid and the Spanish Society of Orthodontists, play in ensuring safe practices in this area?
Dr. Friedlander: These organizations are vital in promoting safe practices in orthodontics. They provide guidelines, support continuing education for professionals, and raise awareness about the risks associated with unregulated treatment. They also serve as resources for patients, helping them make informed choices about their dental care.
Editor: It’s reassuring to know there are resources and professionals committed to safety in orthodontics. To wrap up, what do you envision for the future of invisible orthodontics?
Dr. Friedlander: I believe that with further advancements in technology and increased awareness about the importance of professional oversight, invisible orthodontics will continue to evolve positively. We can look forward to improved aligner designs and even more effective treatments, but always under the supervision of qualified professionals.
Editor: Thank you so much, Dr. Friedlander, for your insights today. It’s clear that while invisible aligners can offer a route to a beautiful smile, ensuring that it is done safely and effectively cannot be overlooked.
Dr. Friedlander: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure discussing such an important topic!
Editor: And thank you to our audience for tuning in! We hope you found this conversation as enlightening as we did. Until next time, stay informed and stay healthy!