SmileDirectClub

The main difference between Align Technology’s Invisalign clear braces and the product offered by SDC is that SDC clear braces cost less and do not require in-person visits to an orthodontist. SDC has more than 300 “SmileShops”, located at CVS and Walgreens (US), and locations in UK, Canada, Puerto Rico and Australia. Tooth impressions can be taken at “SmileShops” or by ordering an at-home impression kit. Company staff, orthodontists and technicians, located in Costa Rica, prepare a treatment plan, approved by the customer and then finally approved by a state-licensed US-based orthodontist. A series of aligners are shipped from a US facility. One facility is located in TennesseeTennessee and another is being built in Texas. The list price for SDC aligners is under $2000. The treatment timeframe is 5-10 months, which is shorter than with Invisalign (12-24 months).

SDC has been involved in dozens of lawsuits and complaints in the US and also filed a lawsuit against dentists in the province of ManitobaManitoba, Canada in 2019. SDC and SDC Canada Inc. accused the dental association of making “false or misleading statements” about the company and misleading and intimidating dentists.