I often see ads for clear aligners like Invisalign offers but sent through the mail instead. I’ve always thought they were scammy because you don’t know who’s actually looking over your photos and if they even have real dentists on staff. I recently heard about a company called Candid, which says theirs is better because they only have board-certified orthodontists on staff. Plus, they say they can bill insurance. I’ve held off because the price tag of in-office orthodontics is a bit out of reach for me. Is Candid a safe alternative?

Thanks,

Nicole

Dear Nicole,

Invisalign and Candid Offer Similar Aligners

If you’re looking at the treatment in its purest form, both companies make clear orthodontic aligners. Invisalign has been in the game since 1997 and has invested millions into development and has patented concepts and materials. Candid has been in business since 2017.

Insurance Companies Take Issue with Candid

Remote dentistry is an emerging science and there’s certainly benefit to it, especially when someone can’t get to a dentist and is struggling with a major issue like a toothache. However, it’s only recently that the ADA even created a code for teledentistry, making it all but impossible to bill for remote services. Further adding to the issues, many policies specifically state that treatment must be performed in a dental office and by an in-network dentist. It’s not surprising the Candid company has a ton of BBB complaints related to insurance.

Something else to consider is companies can maintain a good BBB rating by following up with complaints, even if the customer never gets a resolution. For example, Candid’s website currently states, “Many people have dental insurance, and some of those policies cover adult orthodontics (including Candid’s aligners). While coverage can vary dramatically, many plans reimburse 50% of the treatment cost, with up to $1000 reimbursed.” It goes on to say, “Before you know it, you’ll receive a reimbursement check in the mail without lifting a finger.”

This is the messaging people see. You actually have to dig into the site more to find notes like, “We can’t say on a case-by-case basis whether or not you’ll be reimbursed,” or suggestions that you should talk to your own insurance company first. Of course, the company can use these disclaimers as fodder when people complain they weren’t covered, which is enough to satisfy the agency.

Candid Has Been Dropping the Ball with Follow-Ups

At the time of publishing this, there were 41 complaints lodged against the company. That’s pretty intense for a company that’s only been in business two years. One of the other primary complaints is that people having issues with their treatment reach out to the company and never hear back. Yikes. Obviously, a local dentist could have the same problem, but at least you can go down to the office and talk to them in person. It’s a bit harder to get a resolution when you can’t visit a business in person.

Orthodontics Requires Monitoring

While it may be true that lots of people never have a single blip throughout their treatment, issues can arise. Sometimes teeth become traumatized during the shift or things don’t move right. Addressing these problems right away is essential. Failure to do so can genuinely result in losing teeth.

Invisalign vs Candid: Which is Best?

The biggest draw for people interested in Candid is the cost savings. You might save some cash if you don’t have to pay for visits to the dentist during treatment, so Candid is cheaper in some cases. The real question is whether you’re willing to bet your teeth on it. Is the additional risk worth the savings?

A Hidden Benefit of Invisalign

Most patients realize being under the care of a dentist during treatment is a benefit, but did you know you can whiten your teeth while simultaneously straightening them with Invisalign. Their aligners can double as teeth whitening trays. Your dentist simply needs to provide you with a tube of whitening gel to use in the aligners. Together, it is like having a mini smile makeover.

This blog is sponsored by San Antonio Dentist Dr. Imam.