4 Reasons You Should Leave Braces to the Professionals

By now, you’ve probably heard about DIY braces. Over the past few months, this trend of using household items to straighten your teeth has exploded on social media. In fact, micro and macro-influencers alike are using paper clips and rubber bands to achieve a “picture perfect” smile overnight and at a fraction of the cost. Unfortunately, the dangerous consequences of this fad are not getting the same publicity. Therefore, a dentist is sharing four reasons you should leave braces to the professionals.

Reason #1: Oral Health Examinations

To ensure your straight smile does not come at the expense of your oral health, your dentist will conduct frequent examinations throughout your treatment. At these routine visits, your dental team can make certain your teeth are advancing correctly and that any red flags are treated quickly. Unfortunately, those who opt for DIY braces don’t have the same level of supervision or a place to turn if the movement of their teeth takes a turn for the worse. This can be an anxiety-inducing experience, so make sure to use a professional treatment option instead.

Reason #2: DIY Braces Can Have Unforeseen Side Effects

When it comes to your smile, there is no room for errors. Therefore, your dental team creates a customized treatment plan that takes into account your entire tooth, from the root to the chewing surface. However, the same cannot be said for DIY braces. Even if the pressure of the rubber bands or paperclips move your teeth, it can have unforeseen side effects that wreak havoc on your oral health. In fact, patients who opt for DIY braces have experienced movement of their supporting teeth, inability to chew from the affected teeth, and even tooth loss! Therefore, it is of the utmost importance that you opt for professional teeth-straightening treatment from the start.

Reason #3: Prevent Infections

To ensure you get the effective treatment you need safely, organizations like the American Dental Association rigorously test dental procedures and tools before they are introduced to the public. However, household items have not undergone the same level of testing and can introduce your mouth to millions of harmful bacteria. If left unchecked, these microorganisms can lead to an oral infection that can spread to your heart and lungs. To prevent this from happening to you, never use household items to move your teeth.

Reason #4: Long Term Savings

One of the major incentives of DIY braces is the promise of achieving straight teeth at a fraction of the cost. While it may initially seem cost-effective, patients end up paying way more in the long run for the additional restorative treatment needed to correct the damage from DIY braces. In fact, patients who start with professional teeth-straightening methods, like Invisalign or metal braces, end up with a more enjoyable, pain-free, budget-friendly experience.

Although DIY braces promise a straight smile practically overnight, it is important to remember the dangers that come with using household items as a method of orthodontic treatment. To give your smile the upgrade you desire without a painful, costly experience, leave braces to the professionals!

About the Practice

Are you looking for a dental practice that focuses on patient-centered care and genuinely listening? Then look no further than Dolfield Dental! Led by Dr. Jacob Milner and Dr. R. Mark Horner, each member of their team uses their passion for dentistry and mission to deliver world-class care to provide their patients with healthy, beautiful smiles. If you would like to speak with their team about using Invisalign to straighten your teeth, please contact them through their website or by phone at 410-902-4110.