The advertisement sounds tempting: “Teeth in particular for only 33 euros per month” can be read on online platforms such as Tiktok. However, the procedures often lead to serious health damage and high costs for correction treatments.
Consumers of digital tooth corrections complained about taking gums, tooth loss, temporary joint problems, open bite, tinnitus and migraine. “The following costs amounted to a maximum of 10,000 euros for necessary correction treatments,” said the Association for Consumer Information (VKI) in a broadcast.
One of the companies that concentrated is Dr. Smile, who retired from Austria at the end of 2024. This was founded by graduates from the Frankfurt School of Finance and relied on a purely digital treatment concept. After a free 3D scan during a partner practice, customers were advised. Again, these were not dentists, but a sales personnel who encouraged a rapid conclusion of the contract. The treatment was performed via the app and photo uploads.
Hidden costs, no clarification
The VKI right case on behalf of the Ministry of Social Affairs and has it good: the Vienna District Court of Donaustadt imposed a fine of 77,500 euros because the application by “33 euros per month” had not correctly announced the total costs or the effective interest. Moreover, customers were not sufficiently informed who is liable for damage. The Vienna Commercial Court condemned the Urban Technology Agent GmbH for misleading business practices. Dr. Smile had no justification for dental treatments in Austria.
The treatment contracts were declared invalid, consumers granted the right to withdrawal. The contracts were concluded by video call with non -dentists. The case is a warning signal “How non -regulated digital health offers can endanger consumer rights and health,” says Reinhold Schranz of the European Consumer Center (EVZ) Austria.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
