The Collapse of SmileDirectClub: What Went Wrong?

March 05, 2025

SmileDirectClub was once a leader in the at-home clear aligner industry, promising an affordable and convenient alternative to traditional braces. However, in late 2023, the company filed for bankruptcy and ceased operations, leaving many customers stranded.

So, what went wrong? In this article, we’ll break down the key reasons behind SmileDirectClub’s dramatic downfall and explore the best alternatives available today.

The Rise of SmileDirectClub

Founded in 2014, SmileDirectClub revolutionized the dental industry by offering remote teeth straightening at a lower cost than Invisalign or braces.

Key factors in its early success included:

Aggressive marketing campaigns featuring celebrity endorsements
Lower prices than traditional orthodontic treatments
No in-office visits, making it convenient for customers

At its peak, SmileDirectClub was valued at $8.9 billion and operated in multiple countries. However, behind the scenes, major problems were brewing.

What Went Wrong? The Key Reasons for SmileDirectClub’s Collapse

1. Customer Complaints & Lawsuits

As more customers completed their treatment, issues began to surface:

❌ Aligners not fitting properly
❌ Teeth shifting back after treatment
❌ Difficulty getting refunds or support

Lawsuits were filed against SmileDirectClub, claiming false advertising and inadequate orthodontic oversight. This led to trust issues and bad press, damaging the company’s reputation.

2. Financial Struggles & Unsustainable Business Model

Despite its popularity, SmileDirectClub never turned a profit. The company:

Spent heavily on advertising
Offered financing plans that led to unpaid debts
Faced increasing competition from brands like NewSmile

By 2023, the financial pressure was too much, leading to bankruptcy and the shutdown of operations.

3. Increased Regulatory Scrutiny

SmileDirectClub operated without requiring in-person visits, which raised concerns among dental professionals and regulators. Several lawsuits and warnings from state dental boards created more obstacles for the company.

4. The Collapse of Customer Support

As SmileDirectClub’s financial struggles worsened, so did its customer service. Many users reported:

❌ Delayed responses or no reply at all
❌ Unfulfilled aligner shipments
❌ Difficulty getting retainers or refunds after bankruptcy

This left thousands of customers frustrated and searching for alternative solutions.

What Happens to SmileDirectClub Customers Now?

Since SmileDirectClub shut down, customers who were still in treatment were left with no access to aligners, support, or refinements.

If you’re a former SmileDirectClub user looking for a reliable alternative, consider NewSmile, which offers:

✅ Lower prices than SmileDirectClub
✅ High-quality aligners with professional oversight
✅ Excellent customer service and fast response times
✅ Lifetime guarantee on results

💡 Ready to continue your smile journey? Check out NewSmile today!