Braces don’t have to be one color. If you have metal or self-ligating braces, you can choose the color of the small elastic ties holding your wire in place — from classic silver to bold neon to glow-in-the-dark options — and change them at nearly every appointment. Ceramic, lingual braces, and Invisalign don’t offer this kind of color customization, since they’re designed to be discreet rather than colorful.
Which Braces Let You Choose Colors?
Color customization comes down to which type of braces you have:
- Metal braces — full color freedom with every adjustment
- Self-ligating braces — some systems still use colored elastics, others use a clip system with no color option; ask at your consultation
- Ceramic braces — tooth-colored by design, no color customization
- Lingual braces and Invisalign — hidden or clear, so color isn’t part of the experience
Popular Braces Colors and Trends
If you’re choosing colors for the first time, here’s what’s popular right now:
- Classic silver and clear — the most discreet option for anyone who’d rather the braces not stand out
- Bold and bright colors — reds, pinks, and blues for anyone who wants their braces to make a statement
- Neon colors — a favorite among kids and teens for how they pop, especially under UV or blacklight
- Glow-in-the-dark elastics — a fun option some patients ask for specifically; ask your orthodontist which colors are available in glow-in-the-dark at your appointment
- Dark hues — navy, black, and dark green tend to show less staining over time than very light colors
Seasonal Color Ideas
Since colors change at nearly every appointment, a lot of patients like to switch it up with the season:
- Spring: pastel pinks and blues
- Summer: bright yellows and greens
- Fall: deep oranges and reds
- Winter: cool blues and purples, or red and green for the holidays
Choosing Colors That Work for You
A couple of practical things to think about when picking colors:
- Lighter colors — like white, silver, or pale pastels — can make teeth look whiter by contrast
- Darker colors — like navy or black — show less visible staining between appointments than very light shades like white or pale yellow
- Two-tone combinations — many patients mix two colors, alternating by tooth, for a pattern effect
Caring for Colored Elastics
Colored elastics can pick up staining the same way teeth can. Coffee, tea, and dark sauces are the most common culprits. Regular brushing helps keep them looking bright between appointments, and since they’re typically changed every visit anyway, any staining is temporary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do glow-in-the-dark braces exist?
Yes — some elastic tie colors are available in glow-in-the-dark options. Ask your orthodontist which glow-in-the-dark shades they carry at your next adjustment.
Can adults choose braces colors too?
Yes, though many adults prefer more subtle options like clear, silver, or dark tones. There’s no rule that adults have to stick to neutral colors if they’d rather have fun with it.
How often can I change my braces colors?
Typically at every adjustment appointment, usually every 4 to 8 weeks, since that’s when your elastics are replaced anyway.
Can I get colored braces with ceramic brackets or Invisalign?
No — ceramic braces and Invisalign are designed to be discreet, so color customization isn’t part of either option. Metal and some self-ligating braces are where color choice comes in.
Where can my child pick out braces colors?
At any of ABSC’s three Northern Virginia offices — Ashburn, Woodbridge, and Alexandria — kids and teens choose their own colors at every adjustment visit.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re considering braces and want to know more about your color options, book a free consultation with Dr. Ron Hessamfar at any of ABSC’s Ashburn, Woodbridge, or Alexandria offices.
