The best braces colors are dark blue, teal, purple, and dark red because they create contrast that makes your teeth appear whiter and look great on most skin tones. These colors are consistently popular because they are bold enough to look intentional without being overwhelming. The good news is that you get to change your braces colors at every adjustment appointment, so you can experiment until you find your favorites.
Choosing your braces colors is one of the most fun parts of orthodontic treatment. Whether you want colors that make your teeth look brighter, shades that complement your skin tone, or a way to express your personality, this guide will help you pick the perfect colors for your smile.
How Do Braces Colors Work?
The colors on your braces come from small elastic bands called ligatures or o-rings. These tiny rubber bands wrap around each bracket to hold the archwire in place. Your orthodontist places new elastic bands at every adjustment appointment, which typically happens every four to eight weeks.
Because you get new bands at each visit, you can change your braces colors throughout your treatment. Some patients stick with the same favorite color the entire time, while others like to switch things up based on the season, upcoming events, or just their mood that day.
You can choose a single color for all your brackets or mix multiple colors for a unique look. Some patients alternate two colors, while others create patterns or gradients. Your orthodontist can show you the color options and help you decide at each appointment.
Most Popular Braces Colors
Certain colors remain popular year after year because they look good on almost everyone and complement a wide range of skin tones and personal styles.
Dark blue is the most universally flattering braces color. It works well with every skin tone, makes teeth appear whiter by contrast, and looks polished without being too bold. Navy blue is a safe choice if you are unsure what to pick.
Teal and turquoise offer a vibrant option that still flatters most complexions. These blue-green shades are eye-catching but not overwhelming and work especially well during spring and summer months.
Purple ranges from deep violet to lighter lavender shades. Darker purples make a statement while appearing sophisticated, and the color pairs well with most eye colors.
Dark red and burgundy provide a subtle pop of color that looks mature and stylish. These shades work particularly well during fall and winter or for patients who want color without going too bright.
Pink remains popular, especially among younger patients. Hot pink makes a bold statement, while lighter pinks offer a softer, more subtle look.
Braces Colors That Make Teeth Look Whiter
If making your teeth appear brighter is your priority, choose darker colors that create contrast against your tooth enamel. The greater the contrast between your braces and your teeth, the whiter your teeth will look.
The best colors for making teeth look whiter include dark blue, navy, deep purple, dark teal, and burgundy. These shades create a visual contrast that enhances the brightness of your smile.
Light colors and pastels can also work, but the effect is less dramatic. If you have naturally very white teeth, lighter shades like sky blue or soft pink can complement your smile nicely.
Avoid colors that are close to the natural shade of teeth, such as yellow, pale gold, or certain off-whites. These colors can blend with your enamel in ways that make teeth appear dull or discolored.
Braces Colors to Avoid
While most braces colors look great, a few shades can create unflattering effects that most patients prefer to skip.
Yellow and gold can make teeth look stained or discolored. Even if your teeth are perfectly white, yellow bands create an optical illusion that mimics plaque or yellowing.
White and clear elastic bands seem like they would be invisible, but they often backfire. White bands can make teeth look yellow by comparison, and both white and clear bands stain easily from foods and drinks like coffee, tea, tomato sauce, and curry. Within days, these bands may turn a dingy yellow or orange color.
Brown and dark green can resemble food stuck in your teeth when viewed from a distance. While some patients like dark green, it is worth considering how it might look in photos or professional settings.
Black can look like decay or cavities from far away, though some patients love the bold look up close. If you choose black, be aware of how it photographs.
How to Choose Braces Colors for Your Skin Tone
Your skin tone can help guide your color choices, though personal preference always matters most.
- Warmer skin tones with golden or olive undertones often look best in warm colors like orange, coral, pink, gold, and turquoise. Jewel tones such as emerald green, ruby red, and sapphire blue also complement warm complexions beautifully.
- Cooler skin tones with pink or blue undertones tend to look great in cool colors like blue, purple, silver, and pink. Deep jewel tones work well here too, especially deep blue and violet shades.
- Darker skin tones have the advantage of looking fantastic in almost any color. Bright colors like hot pink, orange, turquoise, and gold stand out beautifully. Jewel tones and deep shades also create a striking effect.
- Lighter skin tones work well with both soft pastels and bold contrasting colors. Bright shades like cherry red and royal blue create an eye-catching look, while softer colors like baby blue and light pink offer a gentler effect.
Remember that these are suggestions, not rules. The best braces color is the one that makes you happy when you smile in the mirror.
Fun Braces Color Ideas
Beyond single colors, you can get creative with combinations and themes.
- Holiday colors let you celebrate the season. Try red and green for December, orange and black for Halloween, red white and blue for July, or pastels for spring holidays.
- School colors show your spirit. Match your high school or college colors to represent your team at games and events.
- Sports team colors work the same way. Wear your favorite team’s colors during their season or before a big game.
- Alternating patterns create visual interest. Alternate two favorite colors across your brackets, or try a gradient effect by placing lighter colors on one side and darker on the other.
- Seasonal themes keep things fresh. Bright colors feel right for summer, warm tones suit fall, cool blues and silvers work for winter, and pastels welcome spring.
- Special events give you a reason to coordinate. Choose colors that match a prom dress, complement a family photo outfit, or celebrate a birthday.
Can You Get Clear or Silver Bands?
If you prefer a more subtle look, clear or silver elastic bands are available.
Silver or gray bands blend with metal brackets and make your braces less noticeable overall. This is a popular choice for adults or anyone who wants their braces to be less prominent.
Clear bands aim for invisibility but come with a trade-off. Clear elastic bands stain more easily than colored bands, especially if you drink coffee, tea, or red wine or eat foods with strong pigments. If you choose clear bands, you may want to use a straw for certain drinks and be mindful of staining foods, especially in the days right after your appointment.
For patients who want the least visible option overall, ceramic braces with clear or tooth-colored brackets paired with silver bands offer a discreet combination.
Choose Your Braces Colors at Brace Central Orthodontics
Picking your braces colors should be a fun experience, and our team at Brace Central Orthodontics makes it easy and enjoyable. At every adjustment appointment, you can browse our full selection of colors and try something new or stick with your tried-and-true favorites.
Dr. Polina Ingberman and our team treat patients of all ages, from children getting their first braces to adults achieving the smile they have always wanted. With over 25 years of orthodontic experience, Dr. Ingberman graduated first in her class from NYU College of Dentistry and completed her residency at Columbia University. She creates a warm, family-friendly environment where patients feel comfortable expressing their personal style.
Our Brooklyn office is located at 2468 Coney Island Avenue in the Gravesend and Sheepshead Bay neighborhood. We offer flexible scheduling, including after-school appointments, to fit your busy life.
Ready to start your braces journey? Call 718-998-1888 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. We will discuss your treatment options, answer your questions, and yes, you can start thinking about which colors you want to choose.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often can I change my braces colors?
You can choose new colors at every adjustment appointment, which typically occurs every four to eight weeks. This means you will have many opportunities to try different colors throughout your treatment.
Do braces colors cost extra?
No, braces colors are included in your treatment at no additional charge. Whether you choose one color or a creative combination, there is no extra fee for the elastic bands.
What if I pick a color and do not like it?
If you choose a color and decide it is not for you, simply wait until your next adjustment appointment and pick a different color. The bands are replaced at every visit, so you are never stuck with a color you dislike for more than a few weeks.
Can adults choose braces colors too?
Absolutely. Braces colors are available for patients of all ages. Many adults choose neutral options like silver or gray, but plenty of adult patients embrace color and enjoy expressing their personality through their braces.
