Orthodontic fixed appliance is now considered as fashion accessory and a symbol of
wealth. Due to overwhelming demand, 'fake' and 'real' braces services have been offered through
social media by unqualified personnel using poor quality orthodontic brackets and cases of metal
toxicity from using these type of braces has been reported. (Copied from article).
The growing demand for orthodontic braces among Malaysian community has led to
the development of "fake" and "real" braces. "Fake" braces refer to braces that are worn as costume
and are not bonded to teeth hence unable to produce movement of teeth. "Real" braces refer to
braces that are bonded to tooth structure and are able to produce tooth movement. The braces are
bonded by unqualified practitioners with no formal dental education and they provide braces
treatment in unlicensed premises such as hotel rooms or patients' own homes. (Copied from article).