Update: On December 8, 2023, SmileDirectClub shut down after filing for bankruptcy. See: SmileDirectClub Shuts Down
When it comes to orthodontic treatment, patients are often looking for the best option that will help them achieve a straighter, healthier smile. This is where SmileDirectClub’s lifetime guarantee comes in.
In this article, we’ll delve into the specifics of the guarantee, analyzing the terms and conditions to determine whether it’s a viable option for patients. By understanding who is eligible for the guarantee and weighing any potential risks involved, patients can make an informed decision about committing to an aligner treatment program with confidence. So, if you’re considering SmileDirectClub’s Lifetime Smile Guarantee, read on to find out more.
About Smile Direct Club
Smile Direct Club, which launched in 2014, is a healthcare provider that has disrupted the orthodontics industry by connecting customers to dental professionals in a completely virtual environment.
They offer an affordable, at-home teeth straightening service that involves sending customers an impression kit and aligners created from 3D imaging technology. Their patented model reduces costs significantly, with their clear aligners being up to 60% less than traditional braces.
Through their digital platform, customers have access to at-home clear aligners as well as retainers, whitening kits, impression kits, and other accessories for flossing and brushing teeth.
For those who want more personal attention, Smile Direct has shop locations around the US, Canada, and Europe where customers can consult with dental professionals in person or get assistance with getting their initial teeth impressions completed.
An article by the American Association of Orthodontists states that clear aligners can treat conditions in teeth that include gapped, crowded, cramped, overbite, underbite, and crossbite if the condition is mild or moderate only.
See our review of SmileDirectClub Aligners.
Lifetime Smile Guarantee – Everything You Need to Know
SmileDirectClub’s Lifetime Smile Guarantee is an industry-leading commitment that promises patients a lifetime of satisfaction with their alignment and whitening results.
Here is what you need to know:
What is the Lifetime Smile Guarantee
The Lifetime Smile Guarantee is a free commitment offered to all eligible customers who take advantage of SmileDirectClub’s services. It guarantees that, if you are dissatisfied at any point during or after the treatment, your aligners will be replaced, free of charge.
The policy also allows for a full or partial refund during the treatment period if a patient decides that they no longer wish to continue.
This guarantee applies to all patients who purchase either clear aligners or teeth whitening products from SmileDirectClub and register them online with the company.
How it Works
30-Day Money Back Promise
Once you have started treatment with SmileDirectClub aligners, if for any reason you decide that you do not want to continue the treatment, and it is within the first 30 days of use, you will get a 100% refund of the cost paid.
After 30 Days
If the 30 days have passed but you are still in the treatment period and you change your mind you will still be able to return any unused aligners to receive a prorated refund on those too.
After The Treatment
If you are ever unhappy with your results at any time after completing treatment, you can contact them and they will reissue replacement aligners or whitening supplies as relevant.
To be eligible for the Lifetime Smile Guarantee, you must submit an initial impressions kit within 30 days of your purchase. During your treatment, you should continue to follow all instructions given by your doctor and maintain regular check-ins. After the completion of treatment, including retaining and caring for your smile for retention purposes, you will remain covered under the guarantee indefinitely, as long as you commit to purchasing a retainer from the company every six months.
Returns
If you’re not happy with your SmileDirectClub aligners, the company offers a Lifetime Smile Guarantee policy that allows you to return any unused aligners for a full refund. However, it’s important to note that this policy is separate from the company’s main returns policy and has some separate conditions.
To receive a full refund, you need to return the unused aligners in their original packaging within 30 days of receiving them. Additionally, the company recommends using a tracked shipping carrier, as refunds can still be made if an item is lost in the shipping process, but only if it’s fully trackable. Lastly, it’s worth noting that the shipping costs of returned items are the customer’s responsibility.
Refund of Impression Kit’s Cost
If you order an impression kit and a dental professional advises you that you are not a candidate for wearing aligners due to the severity of the condition with your teeth the company will issue you with a full refund.
Remember to Register Your Aligners
If you are eligible for SmileDirectClub’s Lifetime Smile Guarantee policy, it is important to remember to register your aligners with the company.
Doing so allows SmileDirectClub to verify that you purchased your products from them and entitles you to free replacement aligners or whitening supplies (as needed) anytime after completing treatment.
Registering your aligners will also qualify you for the refund policy that exists during the treatment process. Failure to register your aligner purchase will mean that you will not qualify for the Lifetime Smile Guarantee Policy.
To register, customers can simply visit SmileDirectClub’s website, log in, and select the “Register Your Aligners” option.
See our Clear Aligners Vs Invisalign comparison.
What You Should Know Before You Decide
Orthodontic treatments can be costly and require a significant time commitment, so it’s understandable that patients want to make sure they get the best possible results. SmileDirectClub’s lifetime guarantee promises to give patients peace of mind by offering a full refund if they are not satisfied with the results of their treatment.
However, it’s important to note that this guarantee is separate from the company’s main return policy and has specific conditions. In order to qualify for the lifetime guarantee, patients must have completed the full treatment plan as prescribed by a SmileDirectClub affiliated dentist or orthodontist. The patient must also provide photos that demonstrate that the teeth have not shifted out of alignment over a certain period of time.
Additionally, the guarantee only applies to the original purchaser and is non-transferable. While this guarantee may seem like an attractive option, it’s important to carefully consider whether the treatment is right for you before committing. Factors such as the severity of your orthodontic issues and your personal commitment to wearing the aligners as directed can impact the final outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the SmileDirectClub Guarantee Cover a Full Refund?
Yes, but only if you contact them within 30 days of your aligners arriving and you have registered them online before starting treatment.
Is the Lifetime Smile Guarantee Really for my Whole Life?
Yes, but you must purchase a new set of SmileDirectClub retainers every 6 months and wear them as required. If you adhere to this the company will provide you with one aligner per year for free if required.
What Happens if Smile Direct Doesn’t Work?
If it is within the first 30 days of treatment then you can get a full refund. If you decide it isn’t working after 30 days but during the treatment period a partial refund can be given for any unused aligners or products.