As a dentist with over 15 years of experience in the field of orthodontics and cosmetic dentistry, I have witnessed many cases of patients facing serious consequences just because they chose cheap dental services or self-corrected teeth at home without going through a professional dental facility. This trend is becoming more and more popular in the UK, and it is really a warning bell for the community.
According to figures from the British Dental Association (BDA), in 2023 alone: More than 15% of patients visiting dental offices are due to complications from unlicensed orthodontic services.The number of cases requiring removal of braces purchased online increased by 40% compared to 2021.About 1/4 of cases suffer from gingivitis, jaw bone loss or misaligned bite after using “DIY braces” or cosmetic dentistry at beauty salons without dental certificates.
I remember a 26-year-old female patient who came to my clinic with bleeding gums, loose front teeth, and a crooked jaw. She had been using a set of clear aligners ordered online with the promise of “no need to go to the dentist – beautiful teeth in 3 months”. After examining her, we discovered that she had severe alveolar bone loss and had to have all her front teeth removed and implanted – a costly and time-consuming procedure. Another case is a 19-year-old man who applied cheap porcelain veneers that were widely advertised on TikTok. After only 6 months, the enamel was completely worn away, extensive cavities appeared, and he had to undergo root canal treatment on many teeth.
There are many reasons for this phenomenon: Cheap prices and attractive advertising : Non-professional orthodontic or cosmetic dentistry services often cost only 1/3 of the price of standard dental clinics, and come with the promise of "painless - fast - beautiful".Lack of consumer knowledge : Many people believe that dental beauty is only a matter of aesthetics, ignoring the factors of oral health and jaw structure.The explosion of social networks : The "smile transformation" video attracted millions of views, causing this trend to spread, especially among young people.Difficult access to professional dental services : Long waiting times on the NHS or high costs of private dentistry lead some people to seek temporary but dangerous solutions.
A successful orthodontic or cosmetic dental procedure is more than just a matter of aesthetics. It requires: Expertise : Dentists undergo years of training and have a thorough understanding of jaw structure, bite, and overall oral health.Modern tools and technology : X-ray machines, 3D scanners, result simulation software… are things that cannot be found in cheap services or done at home.Personalized treatment plan : Each person has a different tooth and jaw structure, so it is not possible to apply a common set of braces or veneers to all.Continuous monitoring : During the orthodontic process, patients need to be checked regularly to promptly adjust and prevent complications.
Dental aesthetics does not stop at “white – even – beautiful teeth”, but also includes: Orthodontics : Rearrange teeth position, improve bite, help chewing function and pronunciation better.Teeth whitening : Removes plaque and stains, giving you a brighter smile.Veneers and bonding : Cover up flaws like chipped, cracked or irregularly shaped teeth.Dental restorations (Crowns, Bridges, Implants) : Restore lost or severely damaged teeth.
Improve confidence : A beautiful smile helps you feel more comfortable in communication.Improve oral health : Straight teeth make cleaning easier, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.Support pronunciation and chewing : Correct bite correction helps improve chewing and pronunciation function.Positive impact on psychology : People who are satisfied with their appearance tend to be more optimistic.
I understand that everyone wants to have a beautiful smile, but oral health is something that cannot be traded. Don't let cheap advertising or impatience turn your dream into a nightmare. Choose a reputable dental facility with licensed doctors, modern equipment and a clear treatment plan . A beautiful smile takes time, proper care, and the help of a professional. If you are considering orthodontics or cosmetic dentistry, consult your dentist before making a decision.
