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Candid is making waves in teledentistry by combining a teeth straightening system with expert knowledge — but does it work? Our honest review explores the question.
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Teeth Straightening | Advantages of Invisible Aligners | Candid Offer | Treatment Plan | Pros and Cons | The Verdict
1, 2, 3 — smile!
Does that countdown ring a bell? For most of us it does. It means the flash of a camera is soon to follow. However, the invitation to smile is also a source of embarrassment for many and taking pictures becomes a source of anxiety.
Many don’t grin and bear it; they don’t grin at all. They hide their smiles behind closed lips and self-consciousness. It is no secret that a smile says a lot about a person.
Smiling has actually been linked to happiness (releases endorphins) and some even believe it is one component of stress recovery. An attractive smile is among one of the most coveted of personal assets, too.
Simply put, a smile reveals a lot about us; especially our confidence. Sadly, many never get to experience that confidence — it is simply too embarrassing. Crooked teeth have robbed many of the confidence that a great smile can bring.
Candid is one company seeking to restore confidence in many people’s smiles. Their teeth straightening system, backed by a network of licensed orthodontic professionals, seeks to provide treatment for those who suffer from smile-shyness.
But, are they effective? Do they actually work?
This review seeks to answer those important questions.
As noted, crooked teeth can be quite a source of embarrassment for people. Many turn to orthodontics to correct these issues and alleviate their self-consciousness.
Both dentists and orthodontists specialize in oral healthcare, but orthodontists specialize in treating teeth misalignments; teeth straightening and bite alignments.
Traditionally, braces have been the go to cure to help solve the issue. They are used to correct overbites, underbites, and spacing and crowding issues. This oral intervention is effective for many, especially when the issue is corrected early in life.
However, in recent years many people have opted to take their orthodontic treatment in a different direction, choosing invisible aligners over traditional metal framework to help with teeth straightening.
Both braces and invisible aligners can correct teeth misalignments by gradually shifting teeth into their ideal position. Again, much like braces, this alignment process is done in steps. Most aligner systems require patients to wear a series of aligners for specific periods of time.
One of the main differences between invisible aligners and traditional braces has to do with the actual procedure; how the teeth are shifted into place.
Aligners are custom-fit for each person and rely on push force to gradually shift teeth into proper alignment. Braces apply constant pressure (a pull force) with the use of metal or ceramic wires and bonding agents.
Reasons abound for choosing invisible aligners over braces. But here are some of the most common reasons.
Costs for orthodontic treatment vary, depending on treatment type, insurance, and company. However, one can expect to spend quite a bit less on invisible aligners than traditional braces. Of course, severe teeth alignment issues require more cost and intervention.
An impression kit is the first step in getting invisible aligners. While this can be done in-person, many companies, like Candid, have at-home kits available. This removes the dread of sitting in an orthodontist chair while numerous tools are moved about in your mouth.
Furthermore, braces require frequent adjustments. Most teeth aligner systems come with a series of aligners that can be switched out at home; no face-to-face required.
At the end of the day, aligners are much more comfortable than traditional braces. That doesn’t mean you’re free of discomfort though — both are straightening your teeth. But, aligners do not have metal wires to contend with.
Now it’s time to see how Candid stacks up as a teeth straightening system. According to their website, their recipe for success combines clear aligner treatment with remote (orthodontist) monitoring.
They summarize their program and treatment in three easy steps:
Sounds simple enough, but let’s take a closer look!
Much like its competitors, Candid begins the process with an initial survey; it only takes about 30 seconds. This survey is meant to evaluate initial candidacy.
The first question out of the gate is simple and self-reflective:
How would you describe your teeth?
The user is invited to choose any of the four options that apply: Crowded, discolored, spaced, or protruding. Other questions focus on dental history, dental insurance coverage, age, location, and availability.
Once the assessment is complete, users are prompted to share their first name and email address before results can be accessed.
> Our Thoughts:
The candidate survey could be better.
Though painless, this feature honestly falls a little short, in our opinion. Byte, another invisible aligner company, features a much more comprehensive initial assessment and shares results and candidacy immediately after completion.
Bear in mind, the results of the assessment do not automatically make you eligible for the Candid system. At best the assessment evaluates your likelihood. The real first step in the process is getting your teeth assessed by a professional. Candid lets you do this in two ways:
Option 1: You can visit a Candid Studio near you
This is an in-person option. It allows you to set up an appointment with a specialist where you will discuss treatment goals and receive a 3D scan on your teeth.
Note: Locations for this service are limited and not available in every state.
Option 2: You can request an at-home starter kit
This is the more convenient option and best for those you enjoy the advantages of teledentistry. Currently, there is a limited time offer to buy the starter kit for $20. Once received, all you need to do is take some pictures of your teeth, complete the impression instructions, and send it back.
The good news is, if you are found ineligible as a candidate you will receive a full refund and even if you are eligible no commitment is required.
Evaluation for candidacy:
Once your appointment is done or your starter kit is completed and received, Candid’s doctors will evaluate your candidacy for aligners. If you are a candidate they will go to work designing your treatment plan. They even send out a 3D preview for you to look at; a nice touch.
Once your treatment plan is designed you will receive your clear aligner system. All your aligners are shipped at one time, in one box. The kit itself is sleek and provides step-by-step labeling and instructions for your treatment plan.
Candid’s aligners are made from BPA-free thermoplastics; meaning they are comfortable, durable, and even resistant to stains. To boot, the kit even comes with whitening foam.
Currently, Candid is running a limited time offer ($300 off aligners) bringing the total system price to $2100.
Before you fall out of your chair, keep in mind that traditional braces can cost upwards to $5,000 or more; Invisalign is even more.
Insurance and Payment Options:
Of course, you always have the option to pay in full upfront. However, Candid is in-network with numerous insurance providers. This could have a significant impact on the cost; saving some up to $1300 — i.e., half the cost.
Candid also accepts payments via Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).
Monthly payment plans are also available for those who qualify; some can pay as low as $79/month with $299 down for 36 months.
One thing that sets Candid apart is their remote monitoring — known as CandidMonitoring. But what does that mean? Well, it means no visits to the orthodontist’s office. Care is directed remotely by an orthodontist from start to finish.
In Candid’s view, the treatment process is no set it and forget it. Their professionals are involved throughout the whole treatment process. The same orthodontist that designed your plan is the same one you virtually visit.
This service takes convenience a step further. Appointments and check-ins can be done through your phone; take scans from your phone, upload, and your orthodontist will access your progress, giving you feedback on treatment.
Believe it or not, this is one thing we appreciate about Candid: It doesn’t set a hard and fast result timeline. Based on their customer testimonials and reviews, results can be seen in as little as five months, others 10 months.
No situation is the same. That means the results will vary from person to person. What is right for one may not be right for another. Not putting a definite timeline shows integrity and honesty. We like that.
Still, at the end of the day claims only take us so far. How about we let a few customer reviews speak for themselves:
“Emma D. was awesome. Made everything work with my schedule, super friendly, answered all my questions & addressed all my concerns. 10/10 would call again just to hang out with -- never had such a pleasant call with any kind of ortho practice before. I'm really excited to start my treatment, it looks like my teeth are going to be exactly where I want them in 6 months!”
— Marty, 5/5 Stars on Trustpilot
“Pretty happy with the progress and love the convenience of follow-ups and check ups. I travel a lot for work and sometimes I spend months at a time outside my home state which was previously an obstacle for me to get the treatment that I needed. With Candid, I am able to follow the treatment from anywhere in the world!”
— Luis, 5/5 Stars on Trustpilot
Candid’s results page features some pretty awesome testimonials too.
Byte is one of Candid’s competitors in teledentistry. Both systems are very similar and their prices are comparable. Candid has the edge with its remote monitoring discussed above.
Byte has the advantage in treatment options; featuring two plans. Byte customers have the option of choosing an all-day aligner (worn 22 hours a day); results in 3-4 months, or an at-night aligner (worn 10 hours a day); results in 5-6 months.
One highlight that was seen time and time again in Candid customer reviews was its customer service. Excellent customer service must be a feature for any company looking to make waves in telehealth. Candid checks that box.
Here are a couple other pros worthy of mention:
One drawback with Candid…
It is hard to find a drawback, especially when you understand that no system is without some flaws — custom alignments aren’t always perfect.
However, the only real drawback we could find was their limited studio locations. Of course, in the world of teledentistry, even one location is a luxury.
This customer review makes for a perfect closing thought:
“I’ve always been bothered by the gap in my front teeth. After 6 short months, it’s gone! The whole process was easy and Candid’s customer service is great! Thank you for giving me back the confidence to smile!”
— Sarabeth, 5/5 Stars on Trustpilot
Recapturing confidence is what it’s all about. Candid has provided many with just that.
Sources:
Grin and Bear It! Smiling Facilitates Stress Recovery
Orthodontic Treatment Options | American Association of Orthodontists
Fact Checked
Health Integrity