In "Jonesing for Braces" The New York Times Upfront discovers that teens in countries, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia are starting wear fake braces as a fashion statement. Usually braces are terrifying, but I guess it's not scary at all to the teens in the Southeast Asian countries. Even though, fake braces seem cool they are a bad idea.

This article includes facts from health officials. One fact that stood out to me was "Real braces, by contrast, cost about $1,200 in Asia, making them a luxury item for only the rich." This quote shows that only rich people could afford braces, even when not needed. This also means that poor people couldn't afford them even if they are needed. I think that the poor should at least get help from orthodontist to pay for their child's messed teeth. Another fact that stood out to me was "Health officials, however, are warning teens to stay away from fake braces, since they may contain lead and can be swallowed accidentally." This fact stood out to me because i would want to know how the lead in fake braces may affect your teeth, and what will happen? Also since each brace on braces are connected, how can you swallow?

I don't think there's anything wrong with fake braces. It's just a fashion statement for people who don't need them , or just want them. I think the problem will be, where teens get them from, or how they would them. You cant just go around sticking anything in your mouth. If i made fake braces i would at least go to the dentist and ask them what i could use to make them with. Fake braces is also a smart idea because, once your comfortable with making for yourself, perhaps you could create them for other people and charge them.