Seeing red and yellow dots on your new braces is a common observation and typically not a cause for concern. These small, colored marks are an intentional part of the manufacturing and placement process. They serve as specialized guides that ensure each tiny bracket is placed on the precise tooth and in the correct orientation necessary for your treatment plan.
The Purpose of Manufacturer and Orthodontic Markings
Orthodontic brackets are specifically designed for individual teeth, and the dots act as a quality control measure to prevent placement errors. The colored markings, such as red and yellow, often function as a quadrant identification system. For instance, a manufacturer might use one color to denote brackets intended for the upper arch and another for the lower arch, or to differentiate the left side from the right side of the mouth.
These colors provide quick visual confirmation of the bracket’s orientation and its intended position on the tooth surface. An established protocol often dictates that the colored dot must align with a specific surface, such as the gingival (gum) side or the distal (away from the midline) tie-wing of the bracket. This precision is necessary because even a fraction of a millimeter of misplacement can affect the mechanical forces applied to the tooth. The markings allow the clinician to achieve the highly accurate three-dimensional positioning required for successful tooth movement.
Intentional Dots vs. Accidental Discoloration
Distinguishing the manufacturer’s placement dot from accidental discoloration is important for maintaining oral health. The intentional dots are small, precise, and sharply defined, usually appearing as a tiny, uniform speck of color directly on the bracket body or its base. They are designed to be temporary and are not associated with any poor hygiene habits.
Accidental discoloration, conversely, appears irregular, fuzzy, or spread out, often accumulating around the edges of the bracket or on the elastic ligatures. Yellowish or brownish discoloration is frequently the result of plaque buildup, a sticky film of bacteria and food debris. Reddish discoloration can stem from highly pigmented foods and drinks like tomato sauce, berries, or red wine, or it can be a sign of gingivitis, where irritated gum tissue bleeds slightly. True discoloration from food or plaque will not be removed by a single, thorough brushing session, unlike the intended placement dot.
How Long Do These Markings Last?
The intentional red and yellow placement dots are only temporary and are designed to be easily removed. Their purpose is completed once the bracket has been bonded to the tooth. The dots are typically made from a water-soluble or easily removable material.
In most cases, the colored marks will begin to disappear after the first few times you brush your teeth thoroughly. The simple friction and abrasion from your toothbrush bristles are usually enough to wear the temporary pigment away. They will not affect the long-term integrity of the bracket or your dental health.