In the past, braces were fairly simple. They were usually made up of plain silver metals, and patients didn't have much say in how they looked. Nowadays, getting braces is a fun and creative experience. The brackets that make up braces have elastic ligatures, or rubber bands, that come in all sorts of colors. Patients can choose anything they want from light, eye-catching colors to dark, discreet shades.

With so many options, deciding on a single color can be difficult. Ultimately, you want something that suits your unique personality while also making your teeth shine brighter. Let's take a closer look at the available colors and how to pick the right color for you.

What Color Braces Are Available?

When it comes to braces colors, the sky’s the limit. You'll find everything from white and clear elastic bands to striking black and brown bands. In between these two extremes are all the colors of the rainbow, from purple and blue to red and yellow. You can settle on a single color or combine a few — most patients choose between one and two colors.

Many orthodontists offer a color wheel to help patients imagine their braces. This tool shows all of the available colors and helps patients to see the differences between hues. If you're interested in blue braces, for example, the color wheel can help you pinpoint the exact shade of blue you're looking for.

How Often Can I Change My Braces Color?

If you're worried about picking the right braces color, you may be relieved to learn that it's just a temporary decision. Your orthodontist can change out the rubber bands during your adjustment appointment, which generally occurs every 8 to 12 weeks. If you find a color you really like, you can also ask for the same one each time.

What Braces Color Is Right For Me?

There's no single answer to the question, "What color braces should I get?" Instead, the answer depends entirely on what you're looking for. Here are a few factors you could base your decision on.

1) Personal Preferences

The most straightforward way to choose a color is by simply selecting what you like. This could be your favorite color, a popular color combination, or something meaningful to you such as your school or alma mater colors. You should also consider the type of look you're trying to achieve. If you're going for an upbeat look, for example, stick with light, cheerful colors like pink, orange, or red. If you want a more laid-back vibe, cool colors like dark blue, lavender, and silver work well.

2) Seasonal Events/Themes

If you can't settle on a single color, consider changing things up based on the time of year. Are you trying to be festive this holiday season? Go for Christmas colors and get red and green rubber bands. Do you want to flaunt your spooky side for Halloween? Black and orange bands are the way to go. In addition to picking seasonal colors, you could adjust based on events in your life. If you have a sports game coming up, for example, you could pick bands that match your team's colors.

3) Physical Appearance

A great way to figure out the best color for you is by using your appearance. Start by picking a physical feature, then think about which colors go well with that feature. Here are a few starting points to base your braces color on:

• Skin tone. Darker skin tones tend to go well with bright jewel tones, like emerald green, ruby red, and violet. Lighter skin tones match cooler colors like light blue and green.
• Eye color. If you have brown eyes, earthy colors such as blue and green are a great choice. For lighter eyes, you'll want bright colors that can make them pop. Lilac, light blue, and pink tend to go well with lighter eye colors.
• Hair color. As with skin tones, dark hair goes well with bolder jewel tones. In contrast, light blonde hair suits cooler colors.

A helpful way to identify a complementary color is by using a braces color wheel. Start by choosing a certain physical feature, then locate its color on the wheel. Once you've found it, go to the matching color on the opposite side of the wheel. Whatever this color is, it should accentuate your chosen feature. If your dentist does not have a traditional color wheel, you can find one online.

How Bands Can Make Your Smile Look Whiter

Along with considering your general physical appearance, it's important to think about the appearance of your teeth. A common question that many patients ask is: what color braces make my teeth look whiter? If you're interested in whiter teeth, a dark color is the way to go. Darker colors, such as navy blue, dark purple, and black, provide a nice contrast to the natural whiteness of your teeth. This will make your teeth seem even brighter than they are.

What Braces Colors Make Your Teeth Look Yellow?

While some colors can help your teeth seem whiter, others can actually make your teeth look yellow. For example, clear and white braces can become discolored over time, causing a yellow appearance. Yellow and gold braces can look like stains or discoloration, so you probably want to avoid those colors.

What to Keep In Mind When Picking the Colors of Braces

Here are a few general tips to keep in mind when trying to find the best braces color:

• Avoid natural-looking colors. Try to avoid natural-looking bands that resemble food. Colors like brown and dark green can make it seem like you have meat or spinach stuck in your teeth.
• Follow good oral health habits. While going for a dark color can help your teeth appear more white, the best way to maintain a bright smile is through proper oral hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing will help prevent unwanted tooth discoloration.
• Get creative. Colored braces are a great way to show off your creativity. Don't be afraid to experiment with different colors and try something new during your next appointment!

Along with picking a good color, it's important to work with a reputable team. At Risas Dental, we always put patients first. Whether you're trying to make your teeth seem whiter or need advice on a color combination for your child, you can count on us for expert advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

While it's common knowledge that eating sugary foods can increase your risk of tooth decay, did you know that cavities are actually contagious? As strange as it may sound, the bacteria that cause cavities can be transmitted through saliva when people share food, drinks, and even kisses!

Our teammates at Risas Dental understand that this information can be a bit mind-blowing, but it's also pretty interesting. We've put together this informative guide that details the ins and outs of cavity transmission, along with some important preventative steps to take to boost your dental hygiene routine.

The Science of Cavity Transmission

The science of cavity transmission is actually quite simple — your saliva can transmit cavity-causing bacteria to other people. People carry over 700 types of bacteria in their mouths that they can transmit to others through normal activities. Just like you can spread a cold or flu virus through saliva droplets when you cough, sneeze, or share eating utensils, you can do the same with cavities.

Bacterial Causes of Cavities

Believe it or not, all cavities are caused by bacteria. In fact, some dental professionals even refer to cavities as bacterial infections of the teeth. The human mouth contains many types of bacteria, but research has shown that Streptococcus mutans is the most common culprit for cavities. These bacteria live in dental plaque and can increase the risk of cavity development when it multiplies.

How Do Bacteria in the Mouth Contribute to Tooth Decay?

Consuming sugary foods can increase the risk of cavities because the bacteria in the mouth that break down sugars can create plaque acids. When the acids dissolve on the teeth, they can contribute to tooth decay. Smoking dries out the tissues in the mouth by reducing saliva production, which can put people at a higher risk for developing cavities.

Which Types of Bacteria Are Most Commonly Associated With Cavities?

The most common type of bacteria associated with cavities is Streptococcus mutans. This type of bacteria thrives when the foods you eat create a low pH balance in the saliva. It secretes acid, which sticks to the teeth and can cause mineral loss and cavities.

How Do Bacteria Spread From Person to Person?

Bacteria are spread from person to person in several ways. If a person touches a contaminated surface and has bacteria on their hands, they can spread bacteria to others through touch. Sneezing and coughing can transmit saliva droplets to others through the air, and close contact such as kissing can transfer bacteria from one person to another.

Transmission Modes of Cavities

Saliva is the single transmission mode of cavities. Kissing, sharing food and beverages, and eating from the same utensils can spread the bacteria that cause cavities. Saliva that sprays from the mouth when coughing or sneezing can also transmit cavity bacteria.

Can Cavities Be Spread Through Saliva?

Cavities can be spread through saliva in a few ways. When a person has Streptococcus mutans bacteria in their saliva and kisses someone on the mouth, their saliva can transmit the bacteria to whomever they kiss. If someone takes a bite out of a hamburger or other hand-held food and another person takes a bite from the same food, cavity-causing bacteria can be transferred through saliva on the food. Sharing eating utensils and straws can also cause cavity bacteria in saliva to spread.

What Are the Risks of Sharing Toothbrushes and Other Oral Hygiene Tools?

Most dental professionals warn against sharing toothbrushes and other oral hygiene tools. In addition to potentially spreading the bacteria that causes cavities through saliva, these tools can also transmit blood and contagious viruses.

How Can Parents Pass Cavities to Their Children?

Parents can pass cavities to their children through activities that transmit saliva. Kissing your little one on the mouth, sharing food, and even popping their pacifier in your mouth can create a risk of transmitting cavity-causing bacteria.

Risk Factors for Cavity Transmission

The main risk factor for cavity transmission is shared saliva. Mothers can transmit cavity bacteria in their saliva to their children by pre-chewing their infant's food, using the same toothbrush, and even cooling their food by blowing on it. Adults with active cavities can transmit bacteria through close contact.

Lifestyle and Environmental Factors

Lifestyle factors that may contribute to cavity development include poor oral hygiene, sugary diets, acidic carbohydrates, and inadequate fluoride intake. Not only can fluoride help to prevent cavities, but it can also reverse them in some cases.

A lack of fluoride in drinking water is the most common environmental factor linked to the risk of cavities. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and makes teeth less prone to cavity development. Children who drink water with little to no fluoride may form weaker enamel, which can affect the teeth's natural ability to re-mineralize.

How Do Lifestyle Choices, Such As Diet and Smoking, Affect Cavity Transmission?

The bacteria that cause cavities can be transmitted through smoking if a person with cavity-causing bacteria in their saliva shares a cigarette. The same goes for sharing food. If someone with cavity-causing bacteria in their saliva takes a bite of food and hands you their fork or spoon, you could "catch" a cavity.

What Environmental Factors, Such As Water Quality and Air Pollution, Impact Tooth Decay Rates?

Some studies have shown that areas where pollution is high have high cavity rates among children. Highly polluted areas may also increase the levels of toxic compounds in children's teeth. Scientific studies also suggest that drinking water containing perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs) can contribute to cavity development. PFAs are chemicals that were once used to make nonstick cookware and other products.

Cavity Treatments at Risas Dental

If you think you might have a cavity or you're concerned about tooth decay in your teen or little one, our teammates at Risas Dental are happy to help. We "speak patient" to ensure clear communication and complete understanding of our dental services, and we treat adults, teens, and children. Schedule an appointment today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are cavities really contagious?

Some research has shown that mothers can pass cavities onto their children through activities such as blowing on food and sharing eating utensils. This is due to the potential exchange of saliva that contains cavity-causing bacteria.

Can you get cavities from kissing?

Kissing can sometimes lead to the transfer of cavity-causing bacteria. Since kissing sometimes involves an exchange of saliva, a person with cavity-causing bacteria in their saliva can unknowingly transfer bacteria to the person they kiss. Once inside the other person's mouth, the bacteria can colonize and lead to cavities.

Is it safe to share toothbrushes with family members?

Most dental professionals recommend against sharing toothbrushes with family members for a few reasons. Brushing your teeth can sometimes cause bleeding gums, especially in people with gum disease. Blood on the toothbrush can transfer into the next user's mouth. Also, viruses and bacteria can easily be transferred from person to person via shared toothbrushes.

How do you know if you have cavities?

In its early stages, a cavity might go unnoticed and not cause any physical symptoms. However, you may notice brown or black specks on the teeth that look like stains, and your teeth may have visible holes or "pits" in the enamel. As cavities progress, symptoms can include pain when biting down and tooth sensitivity.

What happens if cavities go untreated?

If cavities go untreated, it can lead to further decay that makes its way into the tooth pulp. This can increase the risk of infection and inflammation, and the tooth may require root canal treatment.

A recent study by DentaVox showed a strong connection between your oral health and your love life. In this study, respondents with excellent oral health reported being the most pleased with their love lives. On the other hand, less than 40% of people with poor oral health reported being satisfied in their intimate relationships.

But this isn't the only study to show these results. Another study showed that 71% of women and 58% of men reported that a great smile was really important when picking a romantic partner. The bottom line? Your oral health can have a significant effect on your love life.

The Link Between Oral Health and Romantic Relationships

Knowing that a link between oral health and romantic relationships exists is one thing. But why is there a link? There are actually a few reasons that your oral health can affect your romantic relationships from bad breath to gum disease and beyond.

Bad Breath and Its Impact on Relationships

Having bad breath can affect your self-confidence, making it more challenging to be intimate with someone. It can also cause an intimate partner to be less attracted to you because they'll want to avoid things like kissing. Thankfully, there's an easy fix for bad breath. 
Bad breath is primarily caused by the same bacteria responsible for tooth decay and gum disease. Maintaining good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent bad breath. Good oral hygiene habits are discussed more in-depth below.

Another cause of bad breath can be the foods you eat. For example, garlic is known to have a strong smell that affects your breath temporarily. If this is an issue, brush your teeth and use mouthwash to rinse away most (or all) of the strong smell.

Gum Disease and Its Effect on Intimacy

Gum disease can be a mood killer, and not just because it can lead to bad breath. Gum disease can actually cause erectile dysfunction in men. This is because gum disease is associated with chronic inflammation, which can cause damage to certain cells in your body. These cells also happen to line the blood vessels in men's sexual organs. When these cells become damaged, it can result in impaired blood flow that affects your ability to get or maintain an erection.

Plus, did you know cavities are contagious? During kissing and other intimate activities, it's possible to spread the bacteria that cause tooth decay to your partner.

Tips for Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene and a Happy Love Life

The good news is that there are ways you can improve or maintain good oral hygiene. You'll be significantly more confident and have a much happier love life as a result.

Daily Oral Hygiene Practices

To improve or maintain good oral hygiene, you should be sure to:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day for at least 2 full minutes.
• Floss at least once daily.
• Use a mouthwash at least once daily.
• Get regular dental check-ups (at least once a year).
• Avoid sugary foods and drinks.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol.
• Eat a balanced, healthy diet.
• Drink plenty of water.

Cosmetic and Restorative Dental Procedures

You may also find it helpful to look into cosmetic and restorative dental procedures. These procedures can improve your smile and make you feel more confident. For example, braces can be used to straighten crooked or misaligned teeth. Professional whitening treatments can brighten smiles that are stained from coffee, smoking, or wine.

Conclusion

Maintaining good oral health is important for a happy love life. It prevents the spreading of bacteria to intimate partners and a great smile can make you feel more confident. If you're ready to talk to a dentist about more ways you can improve your oral health, schedule an appointment today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can oral health problems really affect your love life?

Yes, oral health problems can really affect your love life. For example, bad oral health can lead to erectile dysfunction, bad breath, and reduced confidence.

Is bad breath a deal-breaker in relationships?

For many people, yes. Thankfully, there are many ways you can deal with bad breath so it doesn't cause problems. To combat bad breath, keeping good daily oral hygiene practices is most important.

How can I tell if my partner has good oral hygiene?

If you've been in a relationship for a long time, you can tell your partner has good oral hygiene if they regularly brush and floss their teeth. A partner likely has good oral hygiene if their breath smells good and they have a bright white smile. Unfortunately, sometimes it's challenging to tell if your partner has good or bad oral hygiene.

What can I do if my partner has bad oral hygiene?

The best thing you can do is gently bring up the topic and educate your partner on good oral hygiene habits. Sometimes, bad oral hygiene is caused by a lack of knowledge.

Can kissing spread oral health problems?

Yes. Kissing can spread bacteria responsible for cavities and gum disease.

Many people rely on coffee to wake up in the morning or enjoy it as a delicious daytime treat. However, understanding the relationship between coffee and oral health is essential. Below, we'll explore the impact of coffee on your teeth and gums and explain how to keep your mouth healthy.

Coffee and Oral Health: Exploring the Impact

Drinking coffee correctly can positively impact your teeth. Let's look at the link between coffee and oral health.

Antibacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Coffee

Coffee has antibacterial properties, allowing it to kill bacteria that cause tooth decay. Research shows that drinking coffee can reduce your risk of cavities.

Although coffee also has anti-inflammatory effects, the evidence about coffee and gum health is unclear. Several studies show that coffee can protect against severe gum disease, while others say it can damage gum tissue.

Reduced Risk of Oral Cancers

Drinking coffee regularly could reduce your risk of mouth and throat cancers. It's thought that the antioxidants in coffee could reduce the risk of cancerous cell changes.

While there are some positive benefits for oral health, it's important to also explore the things to look out for when drinking coffee.

Understanding the Acidity of Coffee and Its Effects on Teeth

Coffee is acidic, although the pH level depends on the roasting process. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), drinking acidic beverages can increase your risk of enamel erosion by damaging the enamel layer of your teeth. This can expose the dentin and cause tooth sensitivity.

Preventing and Treating Coffee Stains and Discoloration

Tooth discoloration and stains are some of the most common complaints about coffee and oral health. Coffee contains tannins and pigments that can cause brown stains.

You can reduce the risk of coffee-stained teeth by following our tips and tricks for maintaining oral health while drinking coffee. Or, you could consider whitening treatments if you already have stained teeth. Look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance to ensure at-home whitening products are safe and effective. Scheduling an in-office whitening treatment with your dentist is the most effective way to treat tooth staining.

Coffee and Bad Breath

Coffee is famous for causing bad breath because of its strong odor, although a 2021 study discovered that Arabic coffee can reduce halitosis. However, the effect is only short-term — coffee appears to reduce bad breath immediately after drinking but doesn't improve halitosis long term.

Coffee Creamers, Sugar, and Oral Health

Adding sugar and creamers to your coffee could increase the risk of dental problems. Consuming sugary drinks increases your chance of developing cavities because the bacteria in your mouth produce acids when they break down sugar. These acids demineralize your teeth and cause decay.

Many coffee creamers also contain sugar. You can reduce your risk of cavities by choosing sugar-free creamer brands.

Tips and Tricks for Maintaining Oral Health While Drinking Coffee

You don't have to give up coffee to keep your mouth healthy. The following tips can help you enjoy coffee without damaging your oral health.

Use a Straw

Drinking coffee through a straw prevents it from coming into contact with your teeth and helps minimize staining. You can also limit contact by avoiding swishing the drink around your mouth.

Rinse With Water

Consider rinsing your mouth with water immediately after drinking coffee. Mouth rinsing can help remove tannins and pigments from the surface of your teeth.

Time Your Coffee Consumption

Wait at least 30 minutes to brush after drinking an acidic beverage to reduce the risk of enamel erosion. That's because your saliva can help repair your enamel. Therefore, it's a good idea to avoid drinking coffee just before you plan to brush your teeth.

Choose Healthy Options for Adding Flavor to Coffee

Syrups and flavorings often contain sugar. Consider switching to a sugar-free brand or adding natural flavorings such as 100% cocoa powder or cinnamon.

Choose the Right Toothpaste for Coffee Drinkers

The ADA recommends using fluoride toothpaste to prevent cavities. However, coffee drinkers could also consider toothpaste with ingredients to prevent enamel erosion or whitening toothpaste to remove surface stains. Choose an ADA-accepted brand to ensure the best protection for your teeth and gums.

Schedule Regular Dental Checkups and Cleanings

Visiting your dentist regularly can ensure any dental problems associated with drinking coffee are diagnosed and treated early. Having your teeth professionally cleaned can also remove coffee stains and discoloration.

Debunking Common Coffee and Oral Health Myths

There's a common myth that drinking coffee causes cavities. However, coffee could actually decrease your risk of tooth decay because it can reduce the amount of harmful bacteria in your mouth.

Consider drinking other tooth-friendly beverages alongside coffee. Water is a healthy option and unsweetened milk can also help protect against decay and reduce the effects of acidic food and drinks.

Keeping your mouth healthy doesn't have to mean giving up coffee. Risas Dental can help you maintain good oral health while enjoying coffee responsibly. Book an appointment today for affordable, expert support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does drinking black coffee cause more stains than adding cream and sugar?

Adding milk to your coffee can reduce the risk of stains, so cream may have a similar effect. However, adding sugar may increase your risk of tooth decay.

How many cups of coffee are safe for my teeth each day?

How many cups of coffee it takes to stain or damage your teeth depends on your dental health. Your dentist can advise you on the best lifestyle choices for oral health.

Are there special toothbrushes for coffee drinkers?

Some toothbrushes and other dental hygiene products are marketed as suitable for coffee drinkers. However, you should always choose ADA-approved products to keep your mouth healthy.

Can I still have white teeth if I drink coffee regularly?

Drinking coffee regularly increases your risk of discoloration but you can reduce the effects by drinking through a straw and rinsing your mouth with water. Whitening treatments could be helpful if you have coffee-stained teeth.

Hidden Costs You Shouldn’t Overlook

Getting braces is a significant investment in your dental health and overall appearance. While most people focus on the visible benefits of orthodontic treatment, such as a straighter smile, there are several hidden costs that often go unnoticed.  
We’ve put together this guide to help you understand some common errors people make when considering braces—specifically the additional expenses not all dental offices are transparent and upfront about. By understanding and preparing for these costs in advance, you can have a smooth and financially stress-free smile transformation journey.

Dental Memberships

Before getting braces, it is crucial to review your dental insurance policy or consider dental memberships that cover orthodontic treatment if you do not have insurance. A dental membership is crucial to ensure a healthy mouth from the beginning to end of your orthodontic treatment. Cavities or tooth extractions needed will need to be taken care of before getting braces. The Friends of Risas Membership is included in all our braces payment options for up to 3 years. Be sure to ask your orthodontist if their braces pricing includes a dental membership and the duration of the coverage. Keep in mind that most patients need braces for an average of two years. Being well-informed about your insurance or membership benefits can save you from unexpected financial surprises.

Debonding (Braces Removal)

When the time comes to remove your braces, an essential step called debonding is necessary. Debonding is the process when the orthodontist removes the brackets and wires, cleans off any residual adhesive, and makes final touches on your new smile. While debonding should be included in the overall treatment cost, every office prices their services differently. Be sure to ask if there will be an additional cost for debonding at your orthodontics consultation.

Retainers

Many people mistakenly assume that once their braces are removed, their treatment is complete. While this is true, retainers play a crucial role in maintaining the results achieved with braces. Retainers are custom-made to keep your teeth in their new positions and prevent them from shifting back. The average cost of retainers is $300. At Risas Dental and Braces, we include retainers within our transparent pricing but not all offices price their braces the same way. It’s important to know upfront whether or not this will be an additional cost to factor into your budget.

Financing Fees

One of the most common ways to pay for braces is by setting up a payment plan. It’s important to be aware of the potential financing fees or interest that may be associated with certain payment plans. While many orthodontists offer flexible payment options to make braces more affordable, some financing arrangements may involve additional charges. These fees or rates can vary depending on the office and terms of the plan. Before commiting to a specific financing option, take the time to thoroughly understand the terms and conditions, including any fees or interest that may be applied. Carefully comparing different payment plans can help you choose the most cost-effective option and ensure that you are fully informed about the total financial commitment of your braces treatment.  

Getting braces is an investment not only in your smile but also in your dental health. To avoid common errors and unexpected financial stress, it is crucial to consider the hidden costs associated with orthodontic treatment. Dental memberships, debonding visits, retainers, and financing fees are often overlooked aspects that can add up significantly. By discussing these potential expenses with your orthodontist, reviewing insurance or membership benefits, and planning your budget accordingly, you can ensure a smoother and more financially manageable braces journey. Being well-prepared will help you achieve the confident and beautiful smile you desire without any unwelcome surprises along the way.  

Are you ready to start your smile transformation journey but worried about the cost of braces and potential hidden fees? At Risas Dental and Braces, we offer all-inclusive transparent, affordable pricing for braces. Everything you need for your journey from start to finish is included in our pricing. Additionally, we offer pay in full discounts or no interest payment plans. Say hello to affordable braces and book an appointment today.