SmileDirectClub Inc. dropped a bombshell announcement, revealing that it will be shutting down its operations with immediate effect. This decision has left millions of customers of the telehealth program in a state of disarray. While the company assured existing customers that they will still need to fulfill their financial obligations, it regretfully declared that customer care support will no longer be available.
Unfortunately, SmileDirectClub’s aligner treatment will not be made accessible to new customers, which undoubtedly comes as a disappointment to those who were considering the service. Additionally, the company has terminated its once-promoted lifetime guarantee, leaving customers with diminished assurance.
For customers seeking refunds, the details of the bankruptcy procedure still need to be determined. SmileDirectClub promises to provide further information regarding the steps and measures that affected customers can undertake once this process unfolds.
This recent turn of events comes after SmileDirectClub filed for bankruptcy protection late last September and attempted to secure new investors as part of a broader plan for financial recovery. Even before this, the company had to resort to layoffs and discontinuation of certain international operations in a bid to achieve profitability in January.
Despite its ambitions to revolutionize the orthodontics industry, SmileDirectClub has constantly faced backlash and criticism. Previous allegations suggested that the company was responsible for causing dental damage and nerve injuries, which SmileDirectClub promptly refuted. Moreover, they have encountered setbacks such as a damning report from a short seller, regulatory actions in multiple states including California, Alabama, and Georgia, and opposition from reputable medical organizations like the American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists.
As the future of SmileDirectClub remains uncertain, customers are left hoping for clarity and resolution amidst this disheartening development.