When people ask how often they can change their braces color, they are referring to the replacement of the small, colored elastic ties (ligatures) that wrap around each bracket. These tiny rubber bands serve a mechanical function, and their high visibility makes the color choice a significant personal aspect of wearing braces. The ability to refresh the color is automatically included as part of the regularly scheduled orthodontic adjustment appointments.
The Typical Adjustment Schedule
The frequency of your color change is directly tied to your orthodontic adjustment schedule, which is set every four to eight weeks for patients with traditional braces. This timing is determined by the biological rate at which your teeth can safely be moved through the jawbone. Applying new force too quickly can cause discomfort or damage to the tooth roots.
The color change is incidental to the main purpose of the visit: to assess progress and apply new pressure to the teeth. During this appointment, the orthodontist may change the archwire (the long, curved wire running across the brackets) or make specific bends in the existing wire to guide the teeth. The elastic ties are simply removed and replaced to facilitate the wire adjustment and re-secure the wire to the bracket.
Your specific treatment phase can influence the timing of these visits. During the initial alignment phase, when significant movement is beginning, appointments might occur closer to the four-week mark. As your teeth stabilize and the finishing stages of treatment begin, the interval between visits may extend toward the eight-week maximum.
More Than Just Color: Why Elastic Ties Need Replacement
The primary reason elastic ligatures must be replaced is the natural degradation of the material over time. These small rubber bands are constantly subjected to stress from the forces applied to the archwire, which leads to elastic fatigue. After a few weeks, the tension and elasticity decrease, meaning the tie can no longer hold the archwire firmly into the bracket slot. If the ties are not replaced, the reduced tension can slow down or stop the desired tooth movement, extending the treatment time.
Beyond function, hygiene is another factor. The porous nature of the elastic material can trap plaque and absorb staining agents from food and drinks. This absorption can turn clear or light-colored ties yellow, or cause darker ties to look dull. Replacing the elastics ensures the force system remains effective and maintains oral cleanliness around the brackets.
What to Expect During the Color Change Appointment
Upon arrival, the old elastic ties are quickly removed from each bracket, often using a specialized instrument. This step releases the archwire, allowing the orthodontist or assistant to inspect the teeth and brackets. The brackets are then briefly cleaned to remove any trapped debris before the primary adjustment is performed, which may involve changing or tightening the archwire.
After the mechanical adjustments are complete, the color selection begins. Most offices offer a wide variety of hues on a color wheel, allowing you to choose a single color for all brackets or alternate between two or three shades. The new elastic ties are then stretched around the bracket wings and over the archwire, instantly securing the wire and displaying the chosen color.
While nearly any color is an option, light colors (such as clear or light yellow) tend to stain easily from dark beverages like coffee, tea, or soda, and pigmented foods like curry or tomato sauce. The entire procedure is generally quick, lasting only 20 to 30 minutes, and allows you to walk out with a refreshed look and renewed pressure.