SmileDirectClub announced via a short statement on its website that the company will begin shutting down operations globally.
SmileDirectClub has shut down all operations the company abruptly announced via its website, offering customers an FAQ on what to do with current treatments.
“For new customers interested in SmileDirectClub services, thank you for your interest, but aligner treatment is no longer available through our telehealth platform,” reads a statement on the company’s website. “For existing customers, we apologize for the inconvenience, but customer care support is no longer available. Thank you for your support and letting us improve over 2 million smiles and lives.”
SmileDirectClub has endured years of debt issues and legal problems, filing for chapter 11 bankruptcy in early October. In the bankruptcy filings the company revealed that it had nearly $900 million in debt.
At the time SmileDirectClub said it would seek to recapitalize through a transaction where the company’s founders committed to invest at least $20 million to bolster the company’s balance sheet and to protect its near- and long-term financial health.
According to the FAQ, customers who are currently in treatment will need to seek outside help to continue, either through their treating doctor or a local dentist. All aligner orders that have yet to be shipped will be canceled and the company’s lifetime guarantee is voided.
Those customers on a SmilePay payment plan are expected to continue monthly payments according to the terms of the plan. How refunds will be handled is determined by the company’s ongoing bankruptcy process.
