In the ever-evolving world of fashion and beauty trends, some fashion fads can have serious repercussions on our health. One such alarming trend is the rise of “Fashion Braces.” Unlike the orthodontic braces prescribed by qualified orthodontic professionals to correct dental issues, fashion braces are purely decorative and often sold and applied by unqualified retailers and individuals. This current obsession poses significant risks to your oral health, bite and overall health and well-being.
What Are Fashion Braces?
Fashion braces, also known as fake braces or DIY braces kits, are non-medical braces worn purely for aesthetic purposes. These “braces” are often made of colorful rubber bands, plastic brackets and other materials that mimic the appearance of traditional orthodontic braces. They have become popular among teenagers and young adults who view them as a fashion statement or as a symbol of luxury emulating the appearance of having expensive orthodontic treatment done.
The Dangers of Fashion Braces
Fashion braces are sold by various unqualified and unlicensed vendors, ranging from online retailers to individuals operating out of their homes. These sellers often promote their products through social media platforms, making them easily accessible to impressionable consumers. The term “basement braces” has been coined to describe these unregulated and dangerous practices.
Unlike professional orthodontic braces, which are carefully designed and applied by trained orthodontists, fashion braces lack the precision and safety measures necessary for proper dental care. Furthermore, counterfeit brackets and wires might contain hazardous and potentially toxic chemicals such as cadmium or lead. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) has issued strong warnings about the dangers of do-it-yourself braces at home. These warnings emphasize the potential for severe damage to your mouth and overall health.
Risks Associated with Fashion Braces
-Oral Health Damage: Fashion braces can cause significant harm to your teeth, gums, lips and supportive bones. The materials used are not designed for prolonged contact with the mouth, leading to potential allergic reactions, infections and other complications.
-Misalignment and Bite Issues: Improperly applied braces can worsen dental alignment and bite issues rather than correct them. This could lead to long-term problems from uncontrolled tooth movements, for example, that require extensive professional orthodontic treatment to fix.
-Infection and Tooth Decay: Non-sterile materials and improper application techniques can introduce bacteria into the mouth, leading to infections, tooth decay and even tooth loss.
-Soft Tissue Damage: The use of fashion braces can result in injuries to the soft tissues in the mouth, such as the gums and inner cheeks. These injuries can be painful and may require medical intervention to heal properly.
Why You Should Only Trust Qualified Orthodontists
Orthodontic treatment is a specialized field of dentistry that requires extensive training and expertise. Qualified orthodontists undergo years of education and hands-on experience to ensure they can provide safe and effective treatment for dental issues. When you seek orthodontic treatment from a licensed professional, you can be confident that the appliances used are high quality and that the treatment plan is specifically tailored to your unique needs.
Professional orthodontists use advanced diagnostic tools to assess your dental health and develop a treatment plan that ensures optimal results. They also monitor your progress throughout the treatment, making necessary adjustments to ensure the best possible outcome.
Choose a Healthy Smile
While the allure of fashion braces may be tempting, the risks far outweigh any perceived benefits. The potential for serious oral health issues, misalignment and infections should be enough to deter anyone from pursuing this potentially harmful trend. To protect your smile, always seek orthodontic treatment from qualified professionals, such as our (AAO) orthodontists to safeguard your dental health and well-being. Your smile is absolutely worth the investment in proper care!
We Are the Orthodontist Near You
Are you looking for orthodontic help with your smile? Shirck Orthodontics invites you to schedule an evaluation with our expert orthodontists, Dr. Jeff, Dr. Soo and Dr. Betina. They are highly qualified to help you and your family with all your orthodontic needs. We also have convenient locations near you in Powell, Newark, Westerville, or New Albany and Pataskala, Ohio. We welcome you to contact us today!