Dental braces have become a symbol of social status in the Philippines, after all, braces usually cost 35,000 to 50,000 pesos, way above the monthly minimum wage in Manila. Some even consider it as part of their fashion statement, or like a piece of accessory that gives them a confidence boost. DIY braces cost for as low as only 1,000 to 5,000 pesos, a big difference to the average price of 35,000-50,000 pesos.
You’ll save a lot of money but is it worth it? If something is too good to be true, then usually it is. Keep reading to see real cases of DIY braces gone wrong
DIY braces, also known as "do-it-yourself braces," are an alarming trend where individuals attempt to straighten their teeth at home without professional guidance. This often involves using homemade or makeshift devices to shift the alignment of their teeth. While the appeal of saving money on orthodontic treatment is understandable, the consequences of attempting DIY braces can be severe and irreversible.
Below is a picture of one of several Facebook posts of random unqualified sellers promoting their DIY braces
1. High Risk of Dental Damage: The top alarming dangers of DIY braces is the risk of causing damage to your teeth and gums which in some cases can be irreversible. Without proper knowledge and tools, attempting to move teeth can lead to chipped teeth, gum infections, and even tooth loss.
2. Ineffective Results: DIY braces rarely produce the desired results or even make any improvement. Dentists usually study your oral health and teeth alignment to carefully plan the most suitable Orthodontic treatment for you and continuously monitor the progress. Unlike Do-it-Yourself braces, it’s not a one size fits all.
3. Increased Pain and Discomfort: Braces can be painful and uncomfortable but DIY braces may give you more pain. Our mouths are very sensitive and ill-fitting devices can lead to constant soreness, ulcers, and even jaw problems. Dentists are trained to minimize discomfort during treatment and adjust the braces according to the patient’s tolerance.
4. Risk of Infection: Poorly sterilized Do-it-Yourself braces can introduce bacteria into your mouth, leading to infections and oral health issues. Professional orthodontic equipment is sanitized to ensure patient safety.
5. Longer Treatment Times: DIY braces often take longer to produce any noticeable results, and they might never achieve the desired outcome. If you leave DIY braces for a prolonged time, this might cause even more irreparable complications.
Here are some of real cases of damage caused by Do-it-yourself braces in the Philippines:
1. The Case of Liam: Liam, a male nursing student, finally got fed up hearing comments about his teeth from his friends and relatives. Finding traditional braces as too expensive, he got tempted by a 5,000 pesos DIY braces. Instead of achieving the desired results, he ended up with severe pain to the point that even biting into his food is unbearable. It got worse over time, he developed jaw problems. and his teeth became even more crooked. He eventually required extensive dental work to correct the damage which cost him almost 150,000 pesos!
(LIAM’s DIY braces)
(Liam’s braces installed by a Dentist)
Pictures taken from GMA Public Affairs’ video.
2. **Tom's Tooth Troubles:* Tom decided to save
money by crafting his own braces. Unfortunately, his DIY approach
led to a misaligned bite and his teeth loosening and almost falling
off from his gums. If he was too late, Tom would have suffered
irreversible damage of losing several teeth.
(Not patient’s real name but story inspired by a real patient case*)
3. **Sarah's Costly Mistake:** Sarah used DIY braces to try and close a gap between her front teeth. The pressure applied on her braces was not suitable for her case. Sarah’s teeth become overcrowded and even more misaligned that she had to undergo emergency dental surgery to remove them. (Not patient’s real name but story inspired by a real patient case*)
Image courtesy to: Dentists Against Dental DIY (DADD)
Avoid DIY Braces at All Costs! While the allure of saving money and the promise of a perfect smile might make DIY braces seem tempting, the risks and potential consequences far outweigh any potential benefits.To get a healthy, risk-free, and beautiful smile, schedule a consultation with a qualified orthodontist. Trained dentists will examine your case thoroughly and recommend the most suitable treatment plan that is tailored to the severity and specific alignment of your teeth.
The stories of Liam, Tom, and Sarah should serve as warnings of the horrors of the idea of “saving money” from DIY braces. Don't jeopardize your oral health – seek professional guidance for orthodontic treatment and avoid the dangers of DIY braces. Your smile is worth it and you know it!
Dental Avenue wants to reduce the victims of Do-it-Yourself braces that’s why we have crafted an affordable package deal where patients can get same day installation by our certified dentists for as low as 4,000 pesos! Cheap minus the risks!
See example of our successful cases below:
Learn more about our limited time promo!
For further reading on this topic, check out these articles
highlighting the dangers of DIY braces:
1.
The risks of At-Home Brace
2.
Ngipin na nasira ng DIY braces, maisasalba pa kaya? | Pinoy MD
