Impress aids SmileDirectClub’s stranded customers in wake of bankruptcy

Leading orthodontist brand Impress is poised to take on millions of global teledentistry company SmileDirectClub’s former patients after the latter’s bankruptcy last month. Chief of Orthodontist at Impress Dr. Kjeld Aamodt offers advice on how to choose the right specialist for clear aligners in response to the closure that left over 2 million customers stranded.

In December 2023, the sudden shutdown of SmileDirectClub left customers confused about their dental care and future payment obligations. According to a report in Forbes, the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy just three months before announcing the closure, leaving questions about treatment plans and ongoing payments unresolved. Customers on SmilePay payment plans are expected to continue making payments for their treatment until they are paid in full, despite not being able to follow through with the company's care. 

As stated in the same report, SmileDirectClub has also discontinued its lifetime Smile Guarantee program, which previously offered customers free aligner touch-ups for life. New aligner orders that have not been shipped were canceled, with the company recommending customers who wish to complete their teeth-straightening plans to consult a local dentist so they can take over care. 

A solution for concerned customers

As the #1 orthodontist in Europe, and with clinics in over 160 cities across the world and in eight countries, Impress leaders have proven themselves as top experts in the industry and look to aid those distraught customers who now may be unsure of where to turn. Here’s what their team of orthodontists suggests for patients to pay close attention to when choosing to get clear aligners.

Is the company led by orthodontists? Dentists everywhere are offering clear aligner services in their offices, and customers must be careful about verifying their credentials. The average dentist does not have the 6,000 hours of training that is required to become a licensed orthodontist, nor the expertise to address complex issues like bite misalignment and overcrowding. 

Are the checkups both safe and comprehensive? Customers considering clear aligners should have a full evaluation completed, consisting of a 360-degree X-ray and 3D scan that provides total insight into the health of the teeth, roots, and bone. These checks are crucial to ensure no harm is caused during treatment. 

Does the dental provider explain the exact process? Dr. Aamodt emphasizes the importance of using a dental provider who invests highly in technology and is able to provide a video simulation to the patient of how the teeth will move during the process of treatment. 

Will there be constant monitoring for the treatment? Any provider that offers at-home treatment for clear aligners should still continue to monitor the patient's progressions, ensuring that it is being done safely and correctly. Even after being fitted, patients should always have access to a clinic where they can visit with an orthodontist. 

Does the office show examples of their work and reviews? In the case that the dental provider does not already offer to show examples of their work, the patient should be prepared to ask to view before and after photos of real patients they have worked with rather than just general pictures. Conducting thorough research on Trustpilot is another way the patient can verify the validity of the company. 

Are the aligners fitted to the patient for optimal comfort? Clear aligners should be a comfortable alternative to traditional orthodontic options due to the fact that they should be fitted using cutting-edge technology such as 3D printing. If a dental office or company simply provides a generic aligner without a proper fitting, there is no way to ensure comfort. 

Is the provider’s office hygienic? Orthodontic treatment should be conducted in an extremely sterile environment where the orthodontist is wearing a clean uniform, disposable gloves, a visor, and a face covering. An even bigger red flag though is having no clinic at all.

Getting back on track with Impress: Chicago and beyond

Those patients who were previously left stranded by the sudden closure of SmileDirectClub can turn to industry experts at Impress, who have patented AI technology. With this advanced technology, treatment time is cut down to 6-10 months. Impress has clinic locations globally and allows patients who travel to use any of their locations for follow-up appointments and check-ins. 

On the U.S. side, Impress is spread out across California, New York, Seattle, and Illinois, including three locations in the Chicago area: 

1. Wicker Park — 1620 N. Damen Ave.

2. The Loop — 20 South Clark St., Suite 1520

3. Evanston — 901 Church St. 

Next year, the company intends to expand even further with offices added in predominant cities like Miami and L.A.

Impress and the Chicago community

Over the past year, Impress has actively engaged in brand activation across Chicago, connecting with diverse communities at some of the most prominent events and locations in the area, such as:

• Green City Farmers Market

• Wicker Park Farmers Market

• Downtown Evanston Farmers Market

• Christkindlmarket Downtown Loop

• Trick or Treat Events in both Evanston & Wicker Park

• PrideFest

• Wicker Park Fest

• Bridal Expos

• Chicago Women's Expo

More recently, Impress also held its “Dress to Impress Holiday Bash” hosted by Chicago Star Media at the Impress Wicker Park location. With over nearly eighty people in attendance, the event provided a fun opportunity to highlight the clinic and educate community members and fellow businesses on the exciting technology that Impress brings to the table. 

From vibrant markets to festive occasions, Impress has showcased modern orthodontic solutions, spread smiles at community events, and emphasized the importance of a confident smile. The company’s commitment to creating beautiful, confident smiles for everyone remains at the forefront of its community engagement efforts.

Currently, Impress is providing $700 off orthodontic treatment for the holidays. The company accepts most insurance and FSA/HSA accounts. Find an Impress location here and book your consultation today.

This article was originally posted on December 27, 2023 and has been updated.