Thinking About Using A Groupon Offer For Braces?

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA—Occasionally, we run across something online that we feel like we have to pass on like this topic about using Groupon discount offers to get Las Vegas pediatric orthodontic treatment.

“My short answer for people asking about whether or not they should use a Groupon deal for braces is no,” says Dr. David Alpan, a Las Vegas incognito braces provider. “The deals can be tempting because they offer steep discounts, but there is good reason to reconsider before buying.”

Groupon is a Chicago-based company launched in 2008 that offers coupons to its subscribers, often giving deep discounts—50 percent or more—on everything from restaurant meals to vacation spots to spa visits. Companies use Groupon and other similar sites in hope of bringing in new customers and converting them into repeat business.

Some dental offices and orthodontic practices are getting involved in the discounts too and offering a deal through Groupon on their services.

“At first glance, it looks like you’re getting Invisalign treatment or whatever the offer is at a great price that is significantly less than regular,” says Dr. Alpan, who is also a TMD dentist. “But we’re not talking about markdowns at a department store on last season’s merchandise. Orthodontic treatment is a service not a product, and the doctor you choose will have a big impact on your final results.”

If you read through the offer completely and carefully to review the limitations and qualifications, you may find that the offer only covers up to so long in treatment or a certain number of trays. It may not include retainers or check-up appointments during the retention phase of treatment.

“A good orthodontist works until the malocclusion is corrected, the bite is aligned and the patient has a smile to be proud of,” says Dr. Alpan. “Aesthetic Orthodontics is really an investment in your oral health and self-confidence, so it’s not a good idea to take your business to the lowest bidder.”

These discount medical services offers also come with possible state and federal legal issues as well as ethical ones. The American Dental Association legal division said in a press release about Groupon incentives that offering such discounts may violate certain ADA ethical rules, including the one prohibiting dentists from giving rebates and splitting fees.

“In some states, boards have begun banning the use of Groupons to discount professional services because of concerns about rebates, kickbacks and fee-splitting,” says Dr. Alpan, who offers orthodontics for children and adults.

Any medical provider should be researched, but it is very important to find out how much experience a doctor has using the type of orthodontic treatment and what their finished product looks like. 

© 2012 Sinai Marketing and Dr. David Alpan. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that Dr. David Alpan and Sinai Marketing are credited as sole sources. Linking to other sites from this press release is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.

Where’s Your Bite? the Differences Between Crossbites, Overbites, and Underbites

Did you know there is a direct correlation between your bite and your overall health? When your teeth and jaws are not properly-aligned, it may affect your breathing, speech, and, in extreme cases, even affect the appearance of your face. As a result of malocclusion, also commonly referred to as “bad bite,” your teeth may become crooked, worn or protruded over time. Most people experience some degree of malocclusion, but it is generally not severe enough to require corrective measures. If your malocclusion is serious enough, however, orthodontic treatment may be necessary to correct the issue.

Malocclusion may also be referred to as an underbite, crossbite or overbite. So, what, exactly, is the difference between the three?

· Crossbites, which can involve a single tooth or a group of teeth, occur when your upper and lower jaws are both misaligned, and usually causes one or more upper teeth to bite on the inside of the lower teeth. Crossbites can happen on both the front and/or the sides of the mouth, and are known to cause wear of the teeth, gum disease and bone loss.

· Overbites, also known as “overjet,” occurs when your upper teeth overlap considerably with the lower teeth. Overbites can lead to gum issues or irritation and even wear on the lower teeth, and are known to cause painful jaw and joint problems. Overbites can usually be traced to genetics, bad oral habits, or overdevelopment of the bone that supports the teeth.

· Underbites, which occur when the lower teeth protrude past the front teeth, are caused by undergrowth of the upper jaw, overgrowth of the lower jaw, or both. Underbites can also be caused by missing upper teeth, which can prevent the normal function of front teeth ( molars). This in turn leads to tooth wear and pain in your joints and jaw.

Fortunately, we are able to treat bite problems. If you suspect you or your child has a bite misalignment, we encourage you to be examined at our office as early as possible. By starting early, you can make sure you or your child avoid years of pain and self-consciousness.

The myths and facts about braces

January 28th, 2013

Some folks believe your chances of being struck by lightning increases when you have braces, while other folks believe having braces interferes with romance, and even metal detectors as you try to make your way through the airport for a much-needed vacation. Trust us when we say we know there are quite a few myths about braces out there these days. But before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts first! To help set the record straight, here is some great information on the myths and facts of orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about braces or your orthodontic treatment, please feel free to give us a call or ask us on Facebook! Smile bright!

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month!

Each February for the past 63 years, our friends at the American Dental Association have sponsored National Children’s Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health at a young age, and especially during your orthodontic treatment. Developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular visits with your dentist—even while you’re wearing braces—helps our young patients get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

For kids wearing braces, brushing and flossing can become more difficult, requiring extra time and effort to remove food particles that accrue on and between your teeth and braces. If you ignore your oral health during your treatment, the results can be significantly compromised. We are happy to explain why effective brushing and flossing is so critical during orthodontic treatment. If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call, ask us on Facebook or ask us at your next adjustment appointment!