Teeth-straightening company SmileDirectClub announced the immediate shutdown of its global operations, leaving existing customers without access to its aligner treatment and customer support. The company, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in September, cited an inability to secure a partner for sufficient capital as the reason for the closure. The closure has raised concerns about patient safety and the need for increased regulatory protections. The ADA emphasized the importance of involving licensed dentists in orthodontic care to ensure patient safety and urged affected individuals to consult local dentists for continued care.

The ADA stated in its press release, "The ADA and its members are committed to patients, and no patient should be abandoned or left behind. ADA encourages any individual who will no longer have access to customer service—or is considering other DTC dental products or services—to speak with a dentist in their area. Oral health and overall health are deeply connected, and the ADA encourages all patients to find a dentist they can visit regularly."

Published 12.19.23