For orthodontic patients who choose to make fashion statements with their mouths, colors are really heating up. From soft pastels that coordinate with a wardrobe to bright hues for celebrating holidays or expressing school spirit, the colors appear on the elastic ties that bind the wires to the brackets. These ties, or ligatures, can be changed at each adjustment visit.
While colors for braces are fun, the fun serves a serious purpose. In addition to securing the wires and helping move the teeth, it allows our patients to be involved in and be enthusiastic about their treatment. Enthusiastic patients are more apt to follow instructions on oral hygiene and diet. Good cooperation can yield results that meet everyone’s expectations. “When patients are involved in their treatment, they may take better care of their braces. That helps patient and doctor to reach treatment goals and produce a healthy, beautiful smile,” emphasizes Dr. Vermette.
Colors are a hit with countless braces-wearers. “We make sure we have an ample supply of appropriate colors on hand for upcoming holidays,” says Dr. Vermette. Patients can celebrate every time they smile, year-round: red and white for Valentine’s day; green for St. Patrick’s Day; red, white and blue for 4th of July; orange and black for Halloween; green and red for Christmas. The list goes on! Adults, too, are known to choose different colors when they have their braces adjusted. For a sports fanatic, it’s a unique way to express loyalty to college or pro teams.
Some patients prefer to be less obvious about their orthodontic treatment. We have a variety of options including ceramic brackets, self ligating brackets, which do not require ties to secure the wire to the bracket, and Invisalign treatment.
Whatever it is that our patients prefer during treatment, whether it be using something less obvious, or making a bold fashion statement, we can provide it all!