A growing preference for fashion braces among Ghanaian youth has sparked concern among health professionals, particularly dentists.

Many, according to reports, are being influenced by trends on social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, where colourful, customised braces have become fashion statements.

Given the medical implications associated with these unsafe devices, a dentist at the Tema General Hospital has warned the public against their use, citing serious oral health risks, including permanent damage to the jaw structure.

Speaking during the World Oral Health Day celebration at the hospital under the theme “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life,” she indicated that most of these fashion braces are fitted by unqualified practitioners.

She noted that, given the critical role oral health plays in overall well-being, individuals should consult qualified professionals before opting for braces.

According to her, these ‘quack’ practitioners often fail to follow proper medical procedures, such as wearing gloves and sterilising instruments, which could lead to infections and long-term oral health complications.

Referring to cases recorded at the facility, she cited an instance where a patient lost his teeth due to unregulated fashion braces.

She therefore stressed the need to seek the services of an orthodontic specialist who possesses the required knowledge and experience.

She further warned the youth to avoid cheap, low-cost services often used as bait, as they can result in serious long-term health consequences.

Purpose of dental braces

Dental braces are orthodontic devices used to straighten and align teeth, correct bite problems, and improve overall dental health. They apply gentle, continuous pressure over time to move teeth into the desired position.

What are they made of, how are they worn, and for how long?

Braces are made up of several key components that work together to gradually align the teeth. These include brackets, which are small square attachments bonded to each tooth, and archwires, which are thin metal wires that connect the brackets. Bands or elastics—small rubber rings—are also used to apply additional pressure and help guide the teeth into their correct positions.

The primary purpose of braces is to correct crooked or crowded teeth and to close gaps between them. They are also used to fix bite issues such as overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite. Beyond improving dental alignment, braces can enhance jaw positioning and contribute to better facial symmetry.

Typically, braces are worn for one to three years, depending on the severity of the case. During this period, patients are required to attend regular orthodontic appointments to adjust the wires and monitor progress. After the braces are removed, patients are usually advised to wear a retainer to maintain the new alignment and prevent the teeth from shifting back.

Types of braces

Traditional metal braces are made of stainless steel brackets and wires. They are the most common type of braces and are known for being strong and highly effective, especially in complex cases. They are also usually the cheapest option. However, they are very visible in the mouth and can sometimes cause irritation to the lips and cheeks. The typical global cost ranges between $3,000 and $7,000.

Ceramic braces use brackets that are tooth-colored or clear, making them less noticeable than metal braces. They are effective for most orthodontic corrections and are often chosen for cosmetic reasons. On the downside, ceramic braces are more fragile, can stain easily, and are slightly more expensive than traditional braces. Their cost generally falls between $4,000 and $8,000.

Lingual braces are placed behind the teeth, on the tongue side, making them invisible from the front. This makes them appealing for people who want their braces completely hidden. However, they are harder to clean, can affect speech, and are often more uncomfortable at first. They are also the most expensive option, with costs starting around $8,000 and going above $10,000.

Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are removable transparent trays that fit over the teeth. They are nearly invisible and can be taken out for eating and cleaning, which makes them convenient. The main drawback is that they are less effective for severe orthodontic cases and require discipline to wear consistently for 20–22 hours a day. Their typical cost ranges between $4,000 and $7,500.