SmileDirectClub Shut Down: What We Know About Payments and Finding New Treatment

SmileDirectClub, a popular mail-order teeth straightening company, has recently announced its complete shutdown, leaving many customers with unfinished treatments and outstanding balances. If you were a SmileDirectClub customer, here’s what you need to know about payments and how to find new treatment options.

Continuing Payments

Even though SmileDirectClub has shut down, the company expects its customers to continue making payments. The FAQ section on their website states that patients who were on the SmilePay plan are obligated to make all monthly payments until their balance is paid in full. Failure to do so may result in the account being sent to collections and potentially impact the individual’s credit score.

Refunds for Undelivered Aligners

If you have not received all the aligners you paid for, SmileDirectClub and Healthcare Finance Direct (HFD) are working together to ensure that customers are appropriately refunded. This also applies to down payments for aligners that were never received. However, as HFD does not handle these payments directly, the exact process and outcome may still be uncertain.

Seeking Dental Consultation

If you have not completed your teeth straightening treatment with SmileDirectClub, it is recommended to consult with a dentist or doctor for the next steps. While there are other direct-to-consumer teeth straightening companies available, such as Byte, it is crucial to have a professional examination of your oral health before proceeding with any treatment option. Moving teeth without proper supervision can lead to irreversible harm, including receding gums, bite problems, and bone loss.

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) advises SmileDirectClub customers to visit an orthodontist, who specializes in teeth and jaw alignment, for an appropriate assessment and personalized treatment plan. Some orthodontists with the AAO offer free consultations to customers who were previously using SmileDirectClub.

OrthoFX, another aligner-based teeth straightening company, is also offering free consultations and assessments to SmileDirectClub customers. They require in-person appointments with a dentist for fittings with aligners that will be worn at home. Pricing starts at $2,950 or $89 per month, and they provide special financing options and flexible payment plans.

Another option to consider is Invisalign, a well-known clear-aligner treatment provider that necessitates in-person care and fittings with a doctor. Pricing estimates for Invisalign are provided by the treating provider.

Take Action

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your SmileDirectClub treatment or payments, contact Healthcare Finance Direct at 877-874-3877 or support@gohfd.com. It’s vital to address any issues promptly and consider consulting with a dental professional to ensure proper care of your teeth.

Source: SmileDirectClub Shut Down: What We Know About Payments and Finding New Treatment – CNET