The past year has been tough on people’s finances. With prices up on so many things, it’s understandable that getting the best deal is not just a want but a real need. You may even have patients ask: do they really need to buy the name brand oral care device or will the cheaper look-a-like work just fine?
Here’s the truth about the look-a-like water flossers available online. While many of them claim to do what the leading brand does, most companies have not conducted their own scientific studies to substantiate that their product works the same and provides the same oral health benefits.
There are only two brands of water flossers that have the ADA Seal of Acceptance for safety and efficacy. This means the makers of these products have made critical investments in their products, including conducting clinical trials to ensure that the claims they make are supported by solid scientific evidence and the device is safe to use.
Why off brands aren't a good idea
Simply because the outside of a product looks like a top brand doesn’t mean the inside is the same, or that the mechanisms of action work the same. There can also be substantial differences in the look-a-like flossing tips. The size of the opening is often different. While this may make the water last longer, it can impact the comfort and efficacy of the product.
A second consideration is product quality. It’s not uncommon for our customer service team to receive calls about product failure. A customer is unhappy about it and even more unhappy when they learn that the product is a look-a-like and not the leading brand they assumed it was. For many of these products, there’s no customer service number and no warranty that allows for product replacement should the product fail.
Deals are enticing, and we all want them. But when it comes to health, it’s no deal if the product doesn’t deliver as intended. Moreover, getting patients to comply with recommendations is hard enough without the aggravation of a product that’s uncomfortable to use or that fails prematurely.
Let’s not underestimate the value that people place on quality. Check out the brand of water bottle your patients bring with them. Are they choosing one of the top brands that keep their water cold all day long? They paid more for that. I’m guessing with some solid reasoning behind your dental brand recommendations, many patients will be willing to pay a little more for a product that provides proven health benefits.
