Fake dental braces a health risk: IDAM

KUALA LUMPUR: The use of fake dental braces or braces mounted by unauthorised individuals can give rise to various complications said Islamic Dental Association of Malaysia (Idam) deputy president Dr Abu Razali Saini.
He said the main concern was the victim's risk of cross infection from the procedure which could occur via the use of unsterilised equipment and unhygienic conditions.
"In addition to tuberculosis, hepatitis can also be transmitted through saliva, and these diseases are serious," he told Bernama after an interview on Bernama News Channel's NINE11 programme today.
He said government and private dental clinics observed strict rules and regulations to prevent and reduce the risk of cross-infection.
"Dental clinics in the country are regulated and monitored by agencies such as the Health Practice Control Unit under the Health Ministry to prevent the spread of the diseases so treatment here are much safer, " said Dr Abu Razali who is also Dentistry For the Needy ( DFTN) president.

As such he urged those who are using or used fake dental braces or had obtained services from unregistered clinics to go for health checks to prevent risks of serious complications.
Meanwhile, DFTN secretary Dr Nor Azura Ahmad Tarmidzi said the use of braces involves movement to the teeth and dentists know the amount of tension and pressure to create so as to prevent damage to the teeth.
"Non-governmental organisations (NGO), enforcement agencies and the community must continue to raise awareness about the dangers of fake braces," she said.
On FDAM, Dr Abu Razali said the NGO provides free dental checks and treatment to the poor, adding that their target was the homeless, Rohingya refugees, residents at old folks homes and orphanages and the Orang Asli community.
He said those interested to assist or join as volunteers can visit www.idam.my while donations can be banked into CIMB account 8602887467, Islamic Dentistry Association of Malaysia. — Bernama