DUBAI: They say vanity knows no inconvenience which is why we see ladies wearing stilettos that actually deform toes – or overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) wearing do-it-yourself dental braces that irreparably damages teeth.
“Orthodontic treatment or braces is more than about straightening your teeth, it involves correcting the malocclusion, crowding of the teeth, adjustment of misaligned jaw among other things for the overall dental health of the patient,” said Dr. Wilbert Fernandez, practicing dentist at Klinika Maharlika.
He added, “For Filipinos, having braces constitutes economic status so much so that some people use Do-It-Yourself braces to keep up with the trend which is actually dangerous.”
Fernandez explained that orthodontic treatment involves thorough diagnosis and planning before placing the braces. “It is important that a licensed dentist be the one placing and the one performing the orthodontic treatment,” he said.
But how would you really know you need braces?
“To determine if you need orthodontic treatment, look in a mirror and smile,” said Dr. Marvin Felix, who also practices at Klinika Maharlika.
“If there are spaces between your teeth or if they’re crowded or crooked, and you’re conscious about your smile, you need to see your orthodontist,” he added.
Felix explained that sometimes it is not the right moment to start treatment, “there may only certain bite problems that are necessary to fix.”
Indeed, he said, “some Filipinos wear braces for social status only.”
