“Fashion braces” may seem like a trendy statement or a cheaper alternative to professional orthodontic work. But these fake braces come with a host of dangers that can lead to serious health consequences.
Professional braces have created millions of straight, healthy smiles over the years. They do this because trained, certified orthodontists use their expertise to plan in precise detail how to safely move your teeth. Fake braces for teeth are decorative, non-medical devices that mimic the look of real braces and pose significant risks to your teeth and jaws. Orthodontic treatment with metal braces, clear braces, and clear aligners like Invisalign move your teeth without causing permanent damage.
We at Northwest Orthodontics want you to get the smile that you want safely. That’s why we want to explain why you should avoid hazardous accessories like fake braces.
Fake braces, also known as fashion braces or DIY braces, are imitation orthodontic devices that can be purchased online or from unauthorized vendors. They typically consist of brackets and wires that are applied to the teeth with temporary adhesives.
Fake braces can cause a host of problems, from headaches to speech impediments to tooth loss. You can do a lot of damage to your teeth and bite, and that damage will have to be fixed by a professional orthodontist. This is why it’s best to visit a professional orthodontist for any orthodontic needs.
Here are the reasons why you should avoid fake braces.
The pseudo-adhesives used to attach fake braces can damage the enamel on your teeth, causing permanent staining or tooth decay. In some cases, this could lead to tooth loss.
Fake braces can move your teeth too fast or in the wrong direction. This can cause them to become loose or to damage other teeth. You could lose teeth as a result of these DIY braces.
Fake braces are not typically manufactured in sterile conditions and may introduce bacteria into your mouth. This bacteria can cause infections ranging from minor gum irritation to severe conditions like periodontal disease.
Fake braces can also slide under your gums and cause damage. This can cause your gums to become irritated or even infected.
There have been reports of fake braces containing lead — a toxic metal that can lead to lead poisoning when ingested over time. Symptoms include abdominal pain, constipation, and depression, and can escalate to more severe neurological issues.
Materials used in fake braces may not be body-safe and can cause allergic reactions. Metals and plastics that are not biocompatible can lead to irritation, swelling, and severe allergic responses.
Real braces are made from a hypoallergenic stainless steel to prevent allergic reactions.
Fake braces can interfere with normal eating and speaking. An improper fit can cause difficulty pronouncing certain letters and words. The lisp could be temporary or permanent.
Fake braces could also cause problems with eating. It may make it more difficult to chew your food properly, which could lead to digestive issues. You also run the risk of the bonding agent failing and accidentally swallowing a bracket or wire.
Fake braces can make it more difficult to brush and floss properly. There are tools that make it easier to brush and floss with legitimate braces, but those tools may not work correctly with fashion braces.
Your teeth will not move properly and may become crowded or twisted. This could make it much more difficult to brush and floss properly. Improper oral hygiene can lead to gum disease and tooth decay.
In some countries, selling and using fake braces is illegal since they are considered a form of unlicensed dental practice. Being caught using or distributing them could lead to legal troubles.
Without proper retainers afterward, any movement from the fake braces will be temporary. Retainers keep your teeth from moving after orthodontic treatment. Once the fake braces come off, your teeth will continue to move without retainers. You could end up with teeth more crooked than when you started.
While the allure of achieving the braces look inexpensively may be tempting, the risks far outweigh the aesthetic benefits. Fake braces can cause severe health and dental issues that could incur a greater cost than investing in legitimate orthodontic treatment.
Moving teeth is a delicate process. Move them too fast, and you could lose teeth or permanently damage your jaw. That’s why it’s so important to let a trained orthodontist move your teeth with proper braces or clear aligners.
Orthodontists spend years in dental school and orthodontics certification to learn precisely how to move teeth without damaging the patient’s jaw. They use sophisticated software and digital scanners to map each tooth and how it should move to create the perfect smile.
Always consult with a certified orthodontist for any teeth straightening needs.
If the alignment of your teeth concerns you or you're vying for straight teeth, consult a professional dentist or orthodontist. These specialists provide safe, hygienic, and effective treatments tailored to your dental health needs.
Remember, your health is more important than a temporary trend. Treat your body with respect and choose only safe, approved dental practices.
If you’re ready for proper braces treatment in Northwest Arkansas or the River Valley, schedule a consultation with Northwest Orthodontics in Fayetteville, AR, Centerton, AR, or Fort Smith, AR. We can show you how proper braces can give you the smile of your dreams.
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