Azerbaijan is experiencing a surge in orthodontic treatments as braces become a major trend among young people.
Influenced by social media aesthetics and the growing affordability of dental care, an increasing number of teenagers and young adults are seeking the “perfect smile.”
But along with the cosmetic boom, a practical question has gained momentum: Can wearing braces qualify a young man for a military service deferral?
Military Service Authorities: “Braces Alone Are Not Grounds for Deferral”
In response to an inquiry from Modern.az, the State Service for Mobilization and Conscription clarified that the presence of braces by itself does not exempt a conscript from military duty.
“Deferrals are granted only when specific medical indications exist,” the press service stated. “Conscript-age individuals undergoing treatment for jaw anomalies using braces are examined medically once. If the diagnosis is confirmed, they may receive the status of ‘Temporarily Unfit for Military Service’ under Column I, Article 51(d) of the ‘Table of Diseases’ of the Regulation on Military-Medical Expertise, approved by Cabinet Resolution No. 59 of February 29, 2008.”
What This Means in Practice
Braces for cosmetic purposes do not provide a military deferral.
Only documented jaw anomalies requiring orthodontic intervention may lead to a temporary unfitness status.
The final decision is made after a medical examination, not based on the braces themselves.
For now, the braces trend continues to grow – but for conscription purposes, a perfect smile is not a ticket to postponing military service.
