SmileDirectClub and its Products - SmileDirectClub produced 3D-printed clear aligners. - SmileDirectClub aligners were a competitor of traditional braces and clear alignment companies like Invisalign. - Communication with licensed orthodontic professionals and other SmileDirectClub staff took place virtually. - Impression kits were sent to customers, after which teeth molds were reviewed by dentists or orthodontists who oversaw the treatment process. - The company reportedly worked with 225 licensed professionals.

History and Financials - The company initially partnered with Align Technology as an exclusive third-party distributor for its aligners. - After a dispute over violation of a non-compete clause, Align was ordered to close its retail locations and return its ownership stake in SmileDirectClub. - In 2021, SmileDirectClub was ordered to pay Align $43.4 million (plus $2.1 million in interest) for the ownership stake. - SmileDirectClub raised $380 million in an investment round led by Clayton, Dubilier & Rice and Kleiner Perkins in October 2018. - NBA player Draymond Green was an early investor in the company.

Criticisms and Controversies - The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) filed complaints with 36 state dental boards, alleging that SmileDirectClub violates regulatory standards. - SmileDirectClub representatives stated that 12 of the cases have been closed and no adverse legal action has been taken against the company. - The AAO has stated that only five states confirmed closed cases. - In September 2019, a group of customers filed a class-action lawsuit against the company, claiming false advertising and FDA regulation violations. - SmileDirectClub used non-disclosure agreements to limit information about customers' dissatisfaction with its products, including medical concerns.

Cyberattack and Workplace Shooting - SmileDirectClub was the subject of a cyberattack in April 2021, but successfully blocked the attack without paying a ransom. - The estimated cost of the cyberattack was $10 million to $15 million in revenue. - A workplace shooting occurred at SmileDirectClub's manufacturing facility in Nashville in August 2021, resulting in injuries to two security guards and a manager. - The gunman, an employee, was shot and killed by responding police officers. - SmileDirectClub released a statement expressing sadness over the events.

Bankruptcy and Liquidation - SmileDirectClub filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in September 2023. - The company expected to continue operations normally during the bankruptcy procedure. - However, in December 2023, SmileDirectClub announced that it would be liquidating and shutting down all operations immediately after a failed last-ditch sale. - The announcement came after the bankruptcy and liquidation process.