“My husband is a representation of so many service members and veterans who sacrifice their lives and deserve a smile that they can be proud of.” 

Getting a straighter smile shouldn’t get in the way of serving your country. 

After seeing SmileDirectClub on social media, Sgt. Elijah L. Redmond began asking around about it at work and was surprised to learn that several of his co-workers had used SmileDirectClub to straighten their smiles. Elijah and his wife, Sierra, did some research of their own and found that SmileDirectClub invisible aligners were the best option for their military family. 

“With SmileDirectClub, he can continue his job in the military, and because the [aligners] are removable, we can still participate in our favorite activities,” Sierra says. “We want to be able to correct his smile while not disturbing our busy lifestyle. It’s also super affordable!” 

SmileDirectClub doesn’t require any in-person office visits and is up to 60% less than traditional braces. Our aligners straighten teeth under the supervision of a network of 250 affiliated, state licensed dentists and orthodontists. Plus, our aligners are a great option for servicemen and servicewomen because they’re approved for deployment. (We also offer an active military discount, among several other benefits.) 

Just in time for the 4th of July, Elijah and Sierra are sharing why SmileDirectClub was the best choice for their family – and how they’ll be celebrating our country’s independence this year together as a family. 

Sgt. Redmond’s smile before starting SmileDirectClub

Elijah, what are your main concerns about your smile?  

Elijah: I feel like I must pick a side to smile on. One side of my teeth are not perfect but easier to look at. The other side is extremely crooked, and I have been self-conscious about my appearance in pictures. I always try to find my “good side.” I just want the ability to smile on  both sides and  feel confident. This has been a lifelong struggle of mine, and it goes beyond the military. I wish to feel like my best self, especially when I get out and seek civilian employment. My new smile will enhance my professional appearance. I feel like teeth are the first thing people notice about you in a face-to-face setting.  

What made SmileDirectClub particularly appealing to you as a military family? 

Sierra: In the military, having braces causes a soldier to become non-deployable. It is no longer recommended that a soldier deploy and participate in various tasks and drills. They need to be able to do their job, but it doesn’t mean that their appearance should suffer. He is a representation of so many service members and veterans who sacrifice their lives and deserve a smile that they can be proud of.  

What was the experience of getting a scan in our SmileShop like for you?  

Elijah: Our experience with SmileDirectClub has been amazing. The 3D image process was simple and painless. The staff was very nice and got the job done quickly. It was amazing to see the new technology and how it can create your new smile in just a few days. 

Sierra, what does it mean to you to be able to give the gift of SmileDirectClub to your husband? 

Sierra: I am looking forward to seeing his new smile, and I know that he is super excited as well. Traditional braces were always too expensive and not conducive to our military lifestyle, so we didn’t think that we would be able to achieve the look that he always wanted.  

How will you be celebrating the 4th of July this year? Any favorite traditions? 

Sierra: Luckily, Elijah is off work this year for the 4th, and we can celebrate together. As a military family, we have the tradition of going on the local military base for the 4th of July celebration and fireworks. There is truly a sense of pride and patriotism during holidays like the 4th, especially as a military family. This country is what it is today because of brave men and women who serve in the military. We are proud to be American and a military family! 

Want to get started on your own smile journey like Elijah? Find a SmileShop near you to schedule a 3D scan today. 

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