BACKGOUND: This study aimed to examine how the general public perceives, understands, and prefers orthodontic treatment provided by a professional orthodontist compared to the concept of do-it-yourself orthodontics without professional supervision. Additionally, the secondary goal was to gauge public awareness regarding the risks and limitations associated with do-it-yourself orthodontics. METHOD: The population under study was selected through random sampling, and a total of 523 individuals without professional experience or background in dentistry and orthodontics participated in an online survey comprising 28 close ended questions. Subsequently, the data collected underwent statistical analysis using SPSS v21 software. RESULTS: Around 72% of the participants were not satisfied with their naturally occurring smile, and had malpositioned teeth. , it was evaluated if lay people knew the difference between a general dentist and an orthodontic specialist, and only 52% of them were aware of it. 40% of the participants think that using aligners without dentist’s supervision is safe. 88.25% of the public has agreed that an orthodontist plays an important role in monitoring treatment progress. CONCLUSION: the study revealed a substantial portion of the surveyed population's inclination toward DIYO, driven primarily by aesthetic concerns, reduced treatment time, and financial considerations.