Once stigmatised, metal braces are now the first choice for some orthodontic patients in their 20s and 30s, with a number of them opting for this older style over more modern alternatives.
American orthodontists says there’s been a definite rise in interest in the “uncool oral train tracks” among Gen Z hipsters and adults, who have no qualms about broadcasting their perceived imperfections.
On the contrary, reports The Washington Post, enthusiasts say they show that the wearers care about their appearance and can afford to invest in themselves.
“When my practice started, kids and adults didn’t want braces,” said Brian Decker, an orthodontist with three offices in Arizona who has been receiving requests for metal braces for the past five years.
“Now, little girls beg us for them. It’s more of a fashion symbol. Many middle-aged females like having braces now, as it adds a sort of youthful or innocent look. I can think of a couple of patients who were begging me not to take them off, even as I say, ‘You’re done, it’s been three years!’”
Richard Schechtman, an orthodontist in California, said he has also seen an increase in the number of his patients in their 20s and 30s opting for metal braces.
“I started noticing this a year ago but thought it was just a few of my patients,” he said. Out of curiosity, he put a query in a Facebook group he belonged to with orthodontists nationwide.
They all reported seeing a similar trend among their patients.
“Braces used to be associated with the stereotypical shame of appearance, but it’s very different today,” he added.
Happy wearers credit the trend to the many influencers, models, rappers and singers who broadcast their braces.
For many, metal braces are both a status symbol – they are often not covered by insurance, and in the US, can range in price from $3 000 to $10 000 – and a desirable accessory.
While serving an orthodontic purpose, they allow wearers to express their individuality with colourful rubber bands or “ties”, even crystals or jewels. (“I have no issues with them doing that as long as they run it by us first, and maybe bring them into us first so we can make sure it’s not in the wrong spot,” Decker said of adding embellishments to braces.)
The proliferation of fake or fashion braces that can be bought online attests to the appeal of the real thing. But fakes can be dangerous.
A May 2024 report from the American Association of Orthodontists noted that the devices can cause infections, poisoning, choking, oral cuts, tooth damage or misalignment.
Decker said many people are becoming more aware of the downsides of aligners, especially the necessity of wearing them 22 hours a day.
“Most people know somebody who has gone through it, and it took forever or they didn’t get the results they wanted,” he said.
“We have more control and precision to move teeth with braces than with plastic, even when patient compliance is perfect, which it rarely is.”
The Washington Post article – Old-school metal braces are making a comeback (Open access)
See more from MedicalBrief archives:
AI tool to help straighten teeth
Dentists warn of permanent damage from ‘aligners’ ordered online
Derided theories of two British orthodontists now have a cult following