What are fake braces?

Fake braces are the non genuine-liked braces (fixed orthodontic appliances) which are fixed to the teeth and are fitted by untrained / unqualified operators. They look similar; however, fake braces are not functioning as the real ones.

What are the fixed orthodontic appliances?

Fixed orthodontic appliances are the apparatus used for orthodontic treatment. The appliances consist of brackets (braces), wires and rubber band which are fixed on the tooth surfaces.

Fixed orthodontic appliances are used by the orthodontist to move an unaligned teeth on a regular check-up until it becomes nicely aligned teeth. The regular check-up usually takes place between two and half to three years.

Before fixed	Inside the mouth

Example photo of fixed orthodontic appliances

Who are always wearing the fake braces?

Teenagers are the one who are always wearing the fake braces.

Why do teenagers wear fake braces?

For teenagers, wearing orthodontic appliances sometimes can be a kind of fashion. Tooth surfaces which are decorated by colourful orthodontic rubber bands look like an accessory. There are various designs and patterns, including flower, star, cartoon characters (Mickey Mouse) and etc.

Usually their teeth alignment is already well-aligned and it doesn’t need any orthodontic treatment. However, because they wanted to follow the trend among the teenagers, they fit the fake braces.

            
Example of fake braces rubber bands.

Where can these fake braces be purchased?

Fake braces are bought online via Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. Some of them are sold illegally in the salons and at the black market. The cost of the fake braces is much cheaper compared to the genuine orthodontic treatment. It costs around RM90 to RM150 only.

How are these fake braces being fixed?

The fake braces are fixed by the buyer him/herself. They can find the tutorials showing how to fix the fake braces in the social media. There are also services given to fix the fake braces in the hotel or from house to house of the buyers.

This is different from the genuine orthodontic treatment as the licensed and experienced orthodontist will fix the orthodontic appliances. They will also explain how to take care the appliances after the fixation.

How long will the fake braces fixed in the mouth?

Usually the fake braces are fixed within 3-5 months only. Later than that, the glue which attached the fake braces cannot stick it well anymore. However, it depends on the teenagers whether they want to fix it any longer or not.

Are the fake braces dangerous?

Of course they are. This is because the components of the fake braces are unknown, whether it is safe for health or not. There was a report stating that the fake braces contain lead which is dangerous for health.

Furthermore, the tools for fixing the fake braces are not sterilized like when it was done at the orthodontic clinic.

Many promotions have been advocated by Ministry of Health to prevent publics from wearing the fake braces because of the adverse effects for their health.

Do the fake braces give any effects to the teeth?

Of course., The stain from the glue can eroded on the tooth surfaces of the teeth. Dental caries and bleeding gum can occur because there is no explanation on how to take care of the teeth after the fitting. Oral hygiene instructions are not given to the fake braces buyers.

Moreover, fixing the fake braces in some way can cause movement of the teeth. Even though the movement was minimal, there were some cases reported causing teeth mobility and almost extruded from the gum.

What should I do if I already wear fake braces?

Immediately go to the orthodontic clinic to remove the fake braces. Full examination will be performed by orthodontist to ensure there is no damage to the teeth. Proper treatment will be given by the orthodontist and the dentist.

Newspaper articles about the danger of the fake braces.

Social media description about the danger of fake braces

  
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