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HAVE YOU been dreaming of a straighter smile without forking out a fortune?

SmileDirectClub has been creating a buzz on social media as an “affordable alternative” to traditional braces – but is the procedure safe?

Founded in 2014, the start-up claims to straighten teeth with mild to moderate alignment issues for around £1,499.

This is a huge saving on rival Invisalign, whose clear braces can set people back from anywhere between £2,400 and £5,500.

Perfect for fast-approaching weddings or special occasions, the process takes on average six months to shift teeth into line.

Instead of booking in to see a dentist or orthodontist, SmileDirectClub works with customers remotely - making it ideal for busy workers.

Those interested in the service can pop into one of the 14 “SmileShops” around the UK, including in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle, Glasgow and Newcastle.

In a 30-minute consultation, a 3D image is taken of the teeth, which is sent to a registered UK dentist or orthodontist to create a bespoke treatment plan.

Those who can’t access a shop can also request a £39 impression kit to be mailed to your door, and then sent back to the professional.

If customers are eligible for treatment, a personalised box of 3D clear aligners tailored to them is posted back in four to five weeks, with braces normally changed every week as the teeth shift.

The easy service is booming thanks to four in ten Britons revealing they are unhappy with their smile, and also as many people find it a struggle to squeeze in appointments for traditional braces.

Duchess of Cambridge and Tom Cruise used clear braces, while Shawn Mendes recently partnered with SmileDirectClub's confidence campaign.

The company says they have transformed over 700,000 smiles to date and then aim to help boost the confidence of Brits “one smile at a time”.

But do dentists recommend them?

The British Dental Association (BDA) has advised against people opting for the service due to the lack of face-to-face consultations.

Eddie Crouch, vice-chairman of the BDA, said: “We advise people to think twice before going ahead with any treatment that is carried out remotely, without a consultation or via the internet.

“The best starting point for orthodontics should always be to see a clinician who has the appropriate training and experience. They can advise you about the different types of orthodontic appliances available, the advantages and risks associated with each, and the one most suited to your needs.

“Seeing an experienced clinician will allow treatment to be carefully monitored and ensure that if any problems arise, these are addressed.

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“If the treatment isn’t monitored over time, you may not get the best outcome, and there is a risk of causing permanent damage to dental health.”

We shared how Fabulous’ editor defies the adult brace shamers and reveals why she has no regrets about fixing her teeth in her 40s.

Meanwhile, Mark Wright and Michelle Keegan’s secret ‘his n her’ procedures for the perfect smile.

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