The desire to get braces purely for a temporary aesthetic, sometimes referred to as “fashion braces,” highlights the distinction between a medical procedure and a cosmetic choice. Orthodontic treatment is a complex biological process designed to restructure the mouth and jaw, not merely an accessory. Understanding the purpose of braces clarifies why professional orthodontists cannot simply apply them for superficial reasons. This treatment involves moving teeth through bone, a slow process that carries inherent risks, making it far more than a casual, elective procedure.
Orthodontic Necessity vs. Elective Aesthetics
Professional orthodontists evaluate patients based on a range of factors that determine medical and functional necessity. The primary concern is malocclusion, which is an incorrect relationship between the upper and lower dental arches when the jaws close, or a bad bite. This misalignment is classified into types like Class I, II, or III, and can lead to difficulties in chewing, speaking, and proper oral hygiene.
Beyond the bite, orthodontists look for specific structural issues such as significant crowding or spacing. Crowding occurs when there is insufficient space in the dental arch for all teeth to align properly, often leading to overlapping or crooked teeth that are difficult to clean. Spacing can also be a sign of underlying issues like a disproportionate tooth-to-jaw size. Braces are a medical device used to correct these structural problems by applying controlled force to shift teeth into healthier positions.
The Ethical and Financial Barriers to “Fun” Braces
The most significant barrier to obtaining braces for purely aesthetic enjoyment is the ethical mandate that governs all dental professionals. This mandate, which includes the principle of non-maleficence, requires practitioners to “do no harm.” Applying braces to perfectly healthy, well-aligned teeth subjects the patient to the risks of orthodontic treatment without any functional benefit.
These risks include potential complications such as irreversible damage to the tooth root (root resorption), enamel demineralization (white spots), and chronic pain. Because an orthodontist is ethically obligated to prioritize the patient’s long-term health, they cannot justify an invasive procedure when there is no underlying medical need. Most will deny treatment that is not justified by an examination and diagnostic records.
The financial reality of orthodontic care also makes a casual application impractical. Comprehensive orthodontic treatment typically costs between $3,000 and $10,000. Dental insurance plans often consider clear aligners or other highly aesthetic options to be cosmetic, which limits or entirely excludes coverage. Even when coverage is provided, it is usually limited by a lifetime maximum benefit, often ranging from $1,000 to $3,500, leaving the patient responsible for the majority of the expense.
The Risks of Unauthorized Braces and DIY Methods
The desire for the look of braces without the medical necessity has unfortunately led to the rise of unauthorized and do-it-yourself (DIY) methods. These dangerous practices involve using non-medical materials like rubber bands, paper clips, or wires to attempt to move teeth. The American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists strongly advise against any at-home orthodontic work not supervised by a trained professional.
The forces applied by these unregulated methods are uncontrolled and can lead to severe, irreversible damage. A common and extremely serious risk is the loosening or loss of otherwise healthy teeth. Unsupervised tooth movement can cause the tooth root to shorten (resorption) or for the tooth to lose its supporting bone structure, leading to permanent tooth loss.
Furthermore, the non-sterile environment and non-medical grade materials introduce a significant risk of infection. Foreign objects can tear gum tissue, allowing bacteria to enter and causing gum disease, infections, and permanent bone damage. Using materials like rubber bands can also cause them to slip under the gums, destroying the supporting bone. Correcting the damage caused by these unauthorized methods often requires extensive and costly professional intervention, including surgery or dental implants.