By Marcella Mwinkoma Babing
The CEO of New Vision Dental Clinic, Dr. Felix Govina, has revealed that wearing fashionable braces is not only ineffective but can also be life-threatening.
Dr. Govina made the remarks on GTV Breakfast Show on March 25, highlighting the dangers of braces fitted by untrained individuals.
“Fashionable braces, as the name suggests, are fake braces,” he said.
He explained that although these braces are made from hybrid metals compatible with body tissues, they are not medical-grade. They also contain high levels of toxic metals such as lead and cadmium, which can pose serious health risks.
Dr. Govina further highlighted the consequences of braces installed in substandard conditions, stating that they can cause uncontrolled or unwarranted movement of the teeth, leading to misalignment.
“They cause incorrect movement of your teeth, even though they are not meant to perform those functions. Because they are glued onto your teeth, over time they do move teeth in unintended ways,” he said.
He also warned about the psychological and physical dangers caused by low-quality adhesive used in these braces. “They use very inferior bonding paste to attach the brackets and wires. Over time, this cheap adhesive weakens and the braces can fall off, leaving sharp wires in the mouth that injure gums and cheeks. This can become a choking hazard and interfere with daily functions,” he explained.
Dr. Govina stressed the importance of seeking professionally fitted braces, noting that low-grade metals in fashionable braces can rust in the mouth and release toxins into the body and bloodstream.
“In fact, some countries have banned fashionable braces. In Thailand, two people died after using such braces due to infections and lead toxicity. It is completely banned there,” he added.
He urged the public to prioritise dental health by only using braces fitted by certified professionals.
