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Same-Day Starts, Braces, and Consultations Available!

Your Top-Rated Orthodontist in
Charleston, SC, For Braces & Invisalign

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Since braces are expensive and desirable, in some countries, people consider them a sign of wealth and status. Just as people used to view being overweight as beautiful—as a sign of being healthy and well-fed in poor surroundings, in some places—braces are now cultural status symbols.

An unfortunate result of this belief is that some teens have created or brought fake braces. Though they can’t afford or even need real treatment, they hope the appearance of these DIY appliances will bring them the status upgrade of the real deal.

Since these braces have now emerged on social media and video sharing sites like YouTube, Instagram, and Tik Tok,  it may tempt any teens in any country to join the fake braces trend. If you are a parent or teen interested in learning more about fake braces, continue reading to learn what they are and the risks that come with using them.

Want to find out if you or your child needs braces? Visit Reese Orthodontics in Charleston, SC for leading orthodontic care.

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What are Fake Braces?

Real braces comprise of an archwire connected by brackets, which are fastened to the patient’s teeth using special cement. They gradually move your teeth and jaw into an aligned position. They are the most effective method for correcting crooked teeth, bite issues, and jaw alignment.

Fake braces follow a similar principle, using a wire or band roped between the teeth and then fastened with some kind of adhesive. Some teens on YouTube even used a stretched-out paperclip and superglue.

Not all teens are so adventurous. To keep up with the trends, some simply purchase fake braces from seemingly reputable vendors on Amazon or Instagram. These fake braces come in professional packaging and even include instructions.

However, for orthodontists, both the DIY and purchasable versions of fake braces represent similar health hazards.

Negative Effects of Fake Braces

The negative effects of wearing fake braces vary depending on the tightness, the materials used, the application method, and the amount of time worn. However, it’s important to note there are zero positive effects from wearing fake braces, so any and all negatives should be considered more than enough risk to avoid them. 

  • Tooth misalignment can result from fake braces if “effectively” applied. In other words, if the braces can move teeth, the wearer’s smile can become damaged, crooked, or even susceptible to tooth loss after extended wear.
  • Choking is a constant hazard with fake braces, since the materials are not securely applied by a professional. They can come apart at any time while eating or talking, or even while the user sleeps. These dislodged pieces can be swallowed and cause choking or other problems.
  • Infections are also a real threat when wearing fake braces since the wires can cause inflammation or sores. Potential infections from causing and then ignoring oral sores caused by unsterilized fake braces can result in gum and tooth loss or the need for corrective surgery.
  • Poisoning from the chosen adhesive can occur in many ways. First: is the chemical poisoning of the person’s internal system, since they are constantly breathing in and potentially swallowing whatever adhesive they used. Second is the damage to tooth enamel caused by many OTC adhesives, not designed to adhere to teeth like orthodontic cement is. At the very least, ugly tooth discoloration is a common result of wearing adhesive for any length of time.
  • Toxic metals and rubbers can also poison the wearer since they were not manufactured to be in someone’s mouth. These materials could contain lead or other chemicals that poison or even kill the person wearing them.

Why Do Kids Wear Fake Braces?

With so many hazards, why do kids still wear fake braces? As a concerned parent or curious teenager, you may have the desire to convince your child or your friends to stop wearing them. To do so, you have to understand why people wear them in the first place.

Fake braces represent a fashion trend, accelerated by internet sharing sites. Kids want to feel included and popular. Because even though the trend came from countries where braces are viewed as status objects, in more developed countries the trend has taken on a life of its own.

Communicating clearly about the dangers of fake braces is a good way to help someone avoid a costly and dangerous mistake. 

If you’re a parent and your child needs braces, consider visiting your orthodontist to review your pricing and treatment options before they get the chance to take matters into their own hands.

Choose Reese Orthodontics

If you are considering braces, you need professional advice on your treatment and payment options. For orthodontic treatments in Charleston, SC, Reese Orthodontics offers the latest technology and treatment plans. Our advanced and comfortable orthodontic treatments are customizable to suit your needs. A consultation with Reese Orthodontics includes scans, a comprehensive exam, and a conversation with the orthodontist to discover which treatment options are right for you. 

Schedule an appointment with us today to stay ahead of your oral health and receive the best possible treatment in your area.

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Easy Ways To Get Started

If you want to learn more about our orthodontic practice - where we offer extensive experience with a Board Certified Orthodontist, where we offer a satisfaction guarantee, and where we offer flexible payment options - Reese Orthodontics is here to serve you.

READ WHY PEOPLE CHOOSE REESE ORTHODONTICS FOR BRACES & INVISALIGN
"Dr. Reese and staff share an inviting personality with a clean and professional atmosphere. I am very happy with the service, the product and the final result. I would encourage any of my friends and family to consult with Dr. Reese around their Orthodontic needs."
- Austin H.
"It has been a great experience all around getting braces at Dr. Reese Orthodontics. It's a great office with wonderful and friendly staff. I am extremely happy with the results. Can't say enough good things about Dr. Reese and his staff. I highly recommend him!"
- Nicole S.
"Dr. Reese and his staff was referred to me by a friend, and I highly recommend them! They were friendly, professional, helpful and quick to respond. I could not be happier with the results of Invisalign. I wore them about 7 months and my teeth are as straight as can be. Thank you for the great care and results!"
- Dancy E.
"I chose the absolute perfect orthodontist to perfect my smile. Dr. Reese has a personality that calms you and removes the anxiety that may come with the process. Dr. Reese is a true artist. I am so excited with my new smile. Dr. Reese accomplished the goals I was looking for and I am forever grateful. Thank you Dr. Reese!!!"
- Melanie C.
"Just awesome! Dr. Reese is the one to go to. He knows what he's doing and is great at what he does. Makes you feel like family every time you go visit. I can't get over how great my smile looks now. Definitely recommended."
- Harsha P.
*The reviews listed are from actual patients of Reese Orthodontics.
Individual results may vary. Reviews are not claimed to represent results for everyone.
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Our Charleston
Orthodontic Office

2057 Charlie Hall Blvd. STE D
Charleston, SC 29414

843.573.7279

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Monday - Thursday: 8:00AM - 5:00PM

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Dr. Reese McElveen, our award-winning orthodontist in Charleston, South Carolina has transformed the smiles of over 11,000 patients. Reese Orthodontics offers the most advanced orthodontic care for children and adults. Types of braces and orthodontic treatment include metal braces, clear braces, gold braces, Invisalign, Invisalign Teen, Damon Braces, SureSmile. Dr. Reese can even help you achieve your confident smile faster with AcceleDent.

Call 843.573.7279 today to schedule your appointment with our board certified orthodontist in Charleston, SC, at our conveniently located Charleston orthodontic office. Come experience Reese Orthodontics and you will see for yourself that we offer innovative and effective orthodontic care in Charleston, Downtown Charleston, West Ashley, James Island, Mount Pleasant, North Charleston, Johns Island, Goose Creek, Hanahan and Ladson, South Carolina (SC).