Fashion braces? Think twice!

Dr Sandre Borma, a registered dentist, explains that braces fitted by unqualified individuals pose serious health risks.“These include improper tooth movement that can cause excessive root damage, bone loss, loose teeth, nerve injury and permanent misalignment. There is also a high risk of gum damage and infection. Common outcomes include bite misalignment and jaw pain.”When asked why young people are drawn to fashion braces, Borma says, “It seems to be a status symbol or fashion trend, especially with colourful elastics or shiny attachments. Social media, peer pressure, and the desire for a ‘perfect smile’ appear to outweigh safety concerns. The low cost and easy access to unregulated providers make fashion braces an attractive but dangerous option for those unaware of the risks.”She also warns of long-term consequences: “Incorrect orthodontic procedures can cause irreversible damage, including loss of bone structure and teeth due to bone destruction and root shortening; temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, leading to chronic jaw pain and headaches; unstable occlusion (bite) causing difficulties in chewing and speaking; gum recession; and facial asymmetry or altered facial development in growing individuals."In the long term, these complications often require costly corrective procedures—or may not be repairable at all.”To distinguish qualified professionals, she advises verifying Health Professions Council of Namibia (HPCNA) registration. “A qualified dental professional will be willing to provide proof of registration, practise from a registered dental facility, hold formal qualifications and display them visibly, and provide a diagnosis, clear treatment plan, and informed consent process. Parents and young people should avoid informal setups, particularly services advertised on social media or offered in homes, salons, or markets.”Education is keyShe adds, “Many young people see oral health as a cosmetic matter rather than a vital part of overall health. Social media has amplified this focus on appearance, often at the expense of medical and functional aspects of dentistry such as infection control, bite alignment, and long-term oral health. Education is vital to help young people understand that oral health is not only about appearance but also about how the entire system functions and affects general health.”Borma recommends stronger measures from authorities.“The HPCNA and other stakeholders should consider public awareness campaigns highlighting the dangers of unqualified dental work; strict enforcement of the Health Professions Act, including prosecution of offenders; inspections of dental suppliers to prevent them from selling materials to unregistered persons; collaboration with the Ministry of Education to integrate oral health and safety into school health programmes; monitoring social media to remove illegal advertising; and creating a public register of qualified professionals to improve transparency and verification.”Her advice to young people is clear: “Do not risk your health for a trend. Braces are not accessories; they are medical devices that require professional placement and care. Fashion braces may look appealing now, but the damage they cause could last a lifetime. If you want to improve your smile, visit a registered orthodontist or dentist who can guide you safely through the process. Your smile is worth protecting. Choose safety, choose professionalism, and choose health, which is permanent, over fashion, which is temporary.”

Fashion braces? Think twice!

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Republikein 2025-09-03

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Fashion braces? Think twice!

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Republikein 2025-09-03

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