SmileSet vs. Real Orthodontics: Dangers of At-Home Aligners

February 28, 2025

Have you heard about SmileSet, cheap at-home clear aligners?

SmileSet may sound familiar if you remember the SmileDirectClub bankruptcy. SmileDirectClub made big promises about affordable, convenient teeth straightening — only to leave thousands of unhappy customers with complaints, unresolved issues, and damaged smiles. 

After filing for bankruptcy, SmileDirectClub shut down… but now they’re back under a new name: SmileSet.

What You Need to Know

If you’re considering at-home clear aligners, you’ll want to hear this! DIY teeth straightening might sound easy and affordable, but it comes with serious risks that could leave you paying far more in the end. 

Here’s why you should think twice before trusting SmileSet (or any mail-order teeth aligners) with your smile — and why real orthodontic treatment with Dr. Battle, your board-certified orthodontist at Premiere Orthodontics, is the safest, smartest choice.

What’s the Difference Between SmileDirectClub and SmileSet?

Essentially, there is no difference. SmileSet is just a rebranded version of SmileDirectClub, a company that faced thousands of consumer complaints and legal battles due to the harm caused by their at-home teeth aligners.

Let’s not forget:

  • SmileDirectClub racked up 1,762 complaints with the Better Business Bureau in just three years.
  • They were sued for misleading customers and manipulating online reviews to cover up negative experiences.
  • Patients reported severe dental damage, including advanced gum disease, misaligned bites, and permanent tooth loss.

If you’re wondering, Is SmileSet legit?—the reality is, it’s the same risky business under a new name.

The Dangers of DIY Clear Aligners

Mail-order aligners like SmileSet claim to provide “doctor-directed” treatment, but here’s the truth:

  • You never actually meet your orthodontist in person.
  • Your impressions are done at home, leaving room for major errors.
  • No one is checking your progress in person to ensure your teeth are moving safely.

A poorly fitted aligner can cause irreversible damage, leading to tooth loss, gum recession, bite misalignment, and costly corrective treatment. What seemed like a cheap alternative to Invisalign® or custom orthodontic care could turn into a dental nightmare — and a much bigger bill in the long run.

The Real Cost of Cheap Aligners

SmileSet markets itself as an affordable option, but many SmileDirectClub customers unfortunately found that DIY aligners come with hidden costs:

  • Many were forced to pay for expensive repairs after their treatment went wrong.
  • Some had to restart treatment with a real orthodontist, doubling their expenses.
  • Refunds? Nearly impossible to get, even when aligners didn’t fit properly.

The Safe, Rewarding Choice

With Premiere Orthodontics in Winter Springs/Oviedo and Waterford Lakes, you don’t have to take risks. At-home aligners may sound convenient, but we offer a 100% digital experience — meaning you can get the convenience of “at-home aligners” with a trusted, board-certified doctor.

We offer affordable, high-quality clear aligners from industry-leading brands (Invisalign and 3M™ Clarity™) with flexible financing that makes expert, board-certified care accessible to everyone:

    • 0% interest in-house financing
    • CareCredit and LendingPoint financing 
    • All orthodontic treatments (custom braces & clear aligners) are the same price here
    • No down payment or low monthly payments (based on your custom plan)
    • We accept insurance! It covers more than you may think.

At Premiere Orthodontics, we believe affordability shouldn’t come at the cost of safety. We offer high-quality, doctor-supervised orthodontic care at an accessible price — without cutting corners.

Your Smile Is an Investment—Protect It with a Lifetime Guarantee

When you choose Dr. Battle, the only board-certified orthodontist in the area, you’re not just getting a straighter smile — you’re getting peace of mind. Unlike SmileSet, we guarantee your results for life.

Our Lifetime Guarantee means that if you completed a full orthodontic treatment but your teeth returned to their original positions due to not wearing your retainer, we will replace your braces! Your only financial responsibilities will be a nominal monthly charge for adjustments, as well as the cost of a new retainer.

Plus, we offer our patients Lifetime Free Teeth Whitening! All of our patients, including previous patients, can come in for free, professional teeth whitening for a lifetime once you complete full orthodontic treatment with us. 

You certainly won’t get this guarantee or expertise with SmileSet.

Skip the Risks. Choose Safe, Guaranteed Results with Premiere Orthodontics.

If you’re thinking about DIY aligners or wondering Can you order Invisalign online?—remember, nothing replaces the skill and expertise of a real, board-certified orthodontist.

With Dr. Battle at Premiere Orthodontics, you’ll get:

    • A personalized treatment plan designed for long-term success
    • Supervised care to ensure safe tooth movement
    • A trusted, local team who truly cares about your smile
    • A Lifetime Guarantee that protects your investment
    • Easy, digital care with virtual check-ins to give you more time back in your schedule.

Don’t take shortcuts with your smile — choose the expert care you deserve. Book a complimentary consultation at one of our orthodontic offices in Winter Springs, Oviedo, or Waterford Lakes and get started on a smile that’s safe, healthy, and guaranteed for life.

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