The Dangers of Do-it-Yourself Braces
November 25, 2019 | Smile Makeover | The Office of Palisades Dentists
3 Minute Read
Pricing for metal braces or Invisalign® can seem expensive when you look at the price tag.
However, saving money by doing at-home or DIY braces can have severe consequences that can lead to pain, a long recovery, and more costs involved to resolve the issues caused by homemade braces.
Homemade braces are no match for professional orthodontic equipment.
Selling and distributing non-professional do-it-yourself braces is illegal, and if caught, fines and jail time can be involved.
Is purchasing an illegal kit or making one at home really worth the risks?
Why Are Do-it-Yourself Braces Dangerous?
Applying foreign objects to your teeth can have adverse side effects.
For instance, in some cases, the materials are hazardous to your health and can damage your teeth.
Elastic bands used in DIY braces sometimes come loose or become attached beneath the gums, which causes dental concerns.
Many cases of at-home orthodontic work have led to:
- Bite inconsistencies or jaw issues
- Cavities
- Damage to the gums
- Gum disease
- Infections
- Root shortening (resorption)
- Tooth loss
One Size Does Not Fit All
Aligners purchased online or through a different route than an orthodontist are not developed for your unique bite pattern.
A professional needs to examine the condition of your dentition and create a personalized treatment plan for your needs.
Should I Opt for Quality or a Cheap Fix?
Cheap fixes through an unknown provider are no comparison to the skilled care of a professional.
The inferior materials used at home or through a third party are no match for products and technology used by orthodontists.
The American Dental Association (ADA), the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), and the Michigan Dental Association all advise against at-home braces or other orthodontist treatments unless an experienced, trained, certified professional is overseeing your results.
It is essential that your provider can be contacted in case of an emergency or if any questions arise.
Doing dental work at home does not allow for this option.
Select an Expert
You can trust an expert to help you achieve your ideal smile.
Orthodontists and specialists are specially trained in the dental field and know how to safely, efficiently adjust your teeth.
Experienced professionals address tooth movement in a safe, appropriate way.
Many factors are involved in your teeth and gums, which requires multiple visits and careful attention to details.
You shouldn’t risk your health or losing your teeth with a cheaper alternative.
Whether metal braces or Invisalign®, the professionals at Palisades can help you discover which treatment is best for you.
Meet the Pali Dentists
Patients in the Pacific Palisades, Brentwood, Malibu, and Santa Monica areas can meet our dentists and discuss any dental concerns.
Our team is dedicated to high-quality care in a family-friendly atmosphere.
We provide complete smile makeovers and other dentistry services to our patients with the confidence that your oral health is our primary concern.
Do Not Follow This Trend
We’ve all seen YouTube videos and Pinterest images of failed DIY attempts; you wouldn’t want to be in the next fail picture or video after trying an at-home treatment.
Straight teeth are a common desire of many teenagers and adults alike, but doing it yourself comes with a lot of risks.
Contact our office in Pacific Palisades, CA, to schedule your consultation and discuss various options for perfecting your smile.
We also offer financing and payment plans for what your insurance does not include in your coverage plan, as well as for patients who do not have dental insurance.
Feel free to learn a new DIY project for your home or office, but please leave the dental procedures to the specialists.
Want More Information?
If you live in the Pacific Palisades area, please call us today at (310) 459-2303 to create a customized dental plan for straighter, healthier teeth.