SmileDirectClub, a telehealth orthodontics firm, closes

The international direct-to-consumer dentistry and orthodontics company SmileDirectClub, which marketed tooth aligners, closed less than three months after filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Telehealth firm, formed in 2014, announced Friday on its website that it “has made the incredibly difficult decision to wind down its global operations, effective immediately.” Customers were praised for “support and letting us improve over 2 million smiles and lives.”

Because SmileDirectClub teeth-straightening courses take 4-6 months, some consumers may be stranded. To maintain care, the organization advised customers to visit local dentists.

As a cheap alternative to traditional orthodontics, SmileDirectClub aimed “to democratize access to a smile each and every person loves by making it affordable and convenient for everyone.” The aligners cost roughly $2,000, whereas clear aligners purchased at brick-and-mortar medical clinics cost around $5,000.

According to SmileDirectClub, clients who financed their treatment plans “are expected to continue to make all monthly payments until payment has been made in full per the terms of our SmilePay program,” even if they will not receive new aligners. Refund eligibility will be decided as bankruptcy proceedings progress.

The Nashville-based company, which sold its products at Walmart and CVS, filed for bankruptcy in late September, saying the restructuring would “allow SmileDirectClub to thrive as an international oral care leader for many years to come” and allow it “to continue to provide affordable and accessible oral care to its customers without disruption.”