Why Fake Braces Are Dangerous (And What to Do Instead in Dubai)

“Fake braces” — sometimes called fashion braces or DIY braces — are sold online and at street markets as a cosmetic accessory. They are made of cheap metal wires and plastic brackets, often glued onto teeth at home or by an unqualified seller.

They are dangerous. Here is exactly why.

What real braces actually do

Real orthodontic braces apply carefully calibrated, continuous pressure to teeth, planned by a trained dentist or orthodontist. The pressure moves teeth through bone gradually — a controlled biological process that takes 12–24 months of monthly adjustments.

Done properly, braces straighten teeth safely. Done improperly, the same forces can:

• Loosen healthy teeth
• Damage tooth roots
• Cause gum recession
• Wear down enamel
• Lead to permanent tooth loss

What fake braces do

Fake braces apply uncontrolled pressure in random directions. There is no plan, no X-ray, no monitoring. Common harms:

• Choking hazard — small wires and brackets can come loose and be swallowed or aspirated.
• Allergic reactions — unregulated metals often contain nickel, lead, or other contaminants.
• Severe gum infections — non-medical grade glue traps food and bacteria against the gum.
• Tooth movement in the wrong direction — random forces can move teeth outward or backward, damaging the bite.
• Permanent root damage — uncontrolled pressure can resorb tooth roots, leading to tooth loss months later.
• Infection from contaminated materials — unregulated street markets sell non-sterile products.

There are documented cases worldwide of patients losing teeth, developing severe gum infections, or needing root canals after wearing fake braces for as little as a few weeks.

Why people buy them

Usually one of three reasons:

1. Fashion — wanting the look of braces as a trend.
2. Cost — believing real braces are unaffordable.
3. Speed — thinking they can move teeth themselves.

All three are based on incomplete information.

Real, affordable alternatives in Dubai

Modern orthodontics has options for every budget and lifestyle. At Tooth-Tastic in Al Barsha 1:

• Traditional metal braces — most affordable, most effective for all case types.
• Clear / ceramic (“transparent”) braces — tooth-coloured brackets, much less visible than metal.
• Damon System braces — self-ligating, fewer appointments, often shorter treatment time. We are a certified Damon provider.
• Invisalign clear aligners — virtually invisible, removable. From AED 4,000 with 25% off available.

A free orthodontic consultation includes a digital scan and X-ray. We will recommend the right option for your case and budget — no pressure to commit. Read more on our braces and orthodontics page.

If you have already worn fake braces

Walk in for a free check-up immediately. We will:

• Take an X-ray to assess any damage to the teeth and roots
• Check the gums and bite
• Recommend a treatment plan to repair any harm and (if you wish) start safe orthodontic treatment

The earlier we assess, the more we can preserve.

Walk-ins welcome Sat–Thu, 11am–11pm at our Al Barsha 1 clinic, 5 minutes from Mall of the Emirates.