Fake Braces: Are They Worth the Risk?

Are “fashion braces” the real deal? Those ads and influencers flashing smiles with colorful bands and wires may look enticing, but true orthodontic care goes far beyond esthetics.

Let's discuss why proper orthodontic care is important for a healthy, confident smile.

What are the Dangers of Wearing Fake Braces?

Fake braces may be cheaper, faster, and even aesthetically pleasing. However, they’re a recipe for trouble.

Here are just some of the risks that come with using fake braces:

• Some of these kits contain lead or other toxic components that shouldn’t be put in your mouth. 
• Fake braces can irritate your gums, making them red and swollen. 
• There’s a high risk of infection.
• Pieces can come loose, especially when you sleep, becoming a major choking hazard, even for adults.
• These kits may move teeth too quickly, potentially damaging roots. 
• Fake braces kits can make your misalignment worse. 

If you’re contemplating buying one of these kits, you have to think long term. Damaged teeth means big dental bills later. Is a cheap kit really saving you money in the long run? 

Are Fake Braces Worth It?

Fake braces can cause reactions to the unregulated materials used and even harm your overall oral health. While the cost of proper treatment can be a hurdle, straight teeth, and healthy gums are priceless.

Wearing fake braces is a risky gamble with your health, appearance, and finances in the long run.

What are the Effects of Improperly Aligned Teeth?

Misaligned teeth, whether they're crowded, crooked, or simply out of place, can have a significant impact on your oral health and overall well-being. Let's go deeper into the effects of improper teeth alignment:

• Oral hygiene challenges ⁠— Crowded or overlapping teeth create nooks and crannies where food particles and plaque can easily hide. Even with meticulous brushing and flossing, it becomes increasingly difficult to maintain optimal oral hygiene, leading to a higher risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
• Jaw joint strain (TMJ disorders) ⁠— When teeth don't fit together correctly, it can strain the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the hinge connecting your jaw to your skull. This strain can manifest as jaw pain, headaches, clicking or popping sounds, and even difficulty opening or closing your mouth⁠—all symptoms of TMJ disorders.
• Uneven wear and tear ⁠— A misaligned bite can cause certain teeth to bear the brunt of chewing forces, leading to uneven wear and tear. Over time, this can result in chipped or cracked teeth, requiring extensive dental work to restore their function and appearance.
• Chewing difficulties ⁠— Proper alignment ensures that your upper and lower teeth work together seamlessly during chewing. However, misalignment can disrupt this process, making it harder to break down food properly. This can lead to digestive issues and discomfort.

Why is Proper Orthodontic Treatment Important?

The good news is that these problems can be addressed through orthodontic treatment. Your dentist can tailor a personalized treatment plan to correct misalignment and restore your smile's function and aesthetics.

Orthodontics enhances your smile and contributes to your overall oral health and well-being. Remember, a healthy smile is a reflection of a healthy you.

How to Find Affordable Braces

We understand that real braces can be pricey. That’s why we suggest talking to an orthodontist. Many offer payment plans and some clinics have sliding-scale fees based on income.

We also recommend looking at other treatment options. Sometimes, just fixing the couple of teeth that bother you most is an option, and this can be more affordable.

Some clinics offer consultations with no commitment. You can ask questions and get cost estimates from professionals. 

How to Look for Reliable Product Information

The abundance of information online can make it challenging to discern reliable health advice. This is particularly evident in the case of fake braces kits, where both accurate information and misleading claims are readily available.

Here’s what you should do when researching orthodontic care online: 

• Always check the source and look for dentists, orthodontists, or organizations like the American Association of Orthodontists.
• Good advice is based on studies and expert findings. Look for references or links to learn more.
• Be wary of a site that promotes one specific product. Real experts give you the full picture, including all the options and their pros and cons.

We also strongly advise looking at the following red flags when it comes to orthodontic products: 

• Promises of super-fast or super-cheap fixes for your teeth
• The use of words like "urgent" or “limited-time offer” or making you feel awful about your teeth
• If a product focuses more on appearance than function

Extra Tips for Online Shopping

When shopping online, always read the reviews. Don't just skim the 5-star ones; look for the critical ones, too. Do they raise concerns that hadn't occurred to you?

Try reverse image search. See that photo of a perfect smile? Right-click and "search Google for image." It might be stolen from a legitimate source. And remember, while online research is convenient, consulting a dentist is crucial for identifying potential dental issues that may not be obvious.

Their expertise allows them to answer any questions you may have regarding your oral health. Be kind to your future self and choose safe, professional care.