The Perception and Usage of Fake Braces: Twitter Content Analysis

Introduction: Financial concerns deter many people from seeking orthodontic care. Fake braces replicate the real but are not functional and priced at a lower cost. These products available through illegal unregistered merchants, who use social media for advertising their products. This study aimed to analyze Arabic Twitter posts related fake braces. Methods: Tweets were collected API v2 using Python. The search was limited language, keywords such as “fake braces” “fashion braces.” in period January 1, 2020, until July 31, 2021. Both sentiment thematic analyses performed. Results: 788 tweets met inclusion criteria, 660 of which advertisements. rest (n = 128) categorized into four main themes: rejecting idea (49.2%), having intention buy (32.0%), using/used (14.1%), accepting (4.7%). Sentiment analysis showed that more than half (55.5%) negative mainly involved sarcastic language (65.8%). Conclusion: Although against braces, sizable number advertisement promoted Efforts should be made educate public about risks emphasize importance licensed orthodontist treatment. In addition, health authorities must establish laws policies enhance surveillance control content these harmful