Evaluating public awareness and attitudes toward fake orthodontic braces in Saudi Arabia: Social trends and clinical risks

Amid growing emphasis on self-image, concern about dental esthetics has significantly increased, prompting some individuals to opt for fake braces instead of professional orthodontic treatment. Fake braces refer to devices fabricated from non-clinical materials sourced from households, local markets, or online platforms. This study aims to evaluate public awareness and attitudes toward fake braces in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using an online questionnaire distributed across Saudi Arabia through social media platforms. A validated tool was employed to assess participants’ awareness and attitudes regarding fake braces. The tool included three thematic domains and 13 items, and responses were analyzed against demographic characteristics. A total of 1230 participants were enrolled. Statistical analysis included the chi-squared and Monte Carlo tests, with significance set at p ≤ 0.05. Most participants believed that orthodontic treatment should be administered exclusively by orthodontists. Social media was the most common source of information about fake braces, reported by 41.9% of participants. Although awareness of fake braces was relatively high, most participants did not intend to use or consider them as a viable alternative to professional treatment. Esthetic appeal was the primary reason cited for using fake braces. Demographic variables such as age, sex, education level, region, and income showed statistically significant correlations with awareness and attitudes of the participants. The study revealed a high level of awareness about fake braces among the Saudi population, with younger participants exhibiting relatively higher awareness and interest in orthodontic treatment. High education levels showed a non-significant trend toward increased awareness. However, knowledge did not always translate into safe behavior. This awareness–behavior gap highlights the influence of social, esthetic, and financial pressures and underscores the need for nuanced public health strategies, including targeted education, strict regulations, and improved access to professional orthodontic care.