DoCeramicBracesStain?WhatChangesColorandWhatDoesn't

Ceramic brackets resist staining well, and most visible discoloration on clear braces comes from the small elastic ties that hold the wire. Those ties can pick up color from coffee, tea, and other foods between visits, and they are replaced at each adjustment.

Here is what the research says about each part of clear braces and what you can do to keep them looking clean.

The Brackets

A laboratory study in the Journal of Orthodontics tested 500 tooth-colored brackets from ten brands against tea, coffee, curry, and red wine. Ceramic brackets showed much more resistance to staining than plastic brackets. Heavy exposure still changed the color of both types somewhat.

A 2022 study of ceramic brackets from five manufacturers found some color change in every solution tested, including artificial saliva, and coffee had the greatest effect. Results varied by bracket brand.

The Elastic Ties

Clear braces often use clear or tooth-colored elastic ties, also called ligatures, around each bracket. The AAO explains that the ligature holds the archwire to each bracket and can be a tiny rubber band or a twisted wire.

These ties are the part most likely to discolor. In a clinical study of 20 adults, all four brands of esthetic ligatures stained noticeably after 30 days in the mouth, and patients and orthodontists judged the staining about the same. The good news is that ties are swapped out at your regular adjustment visits.

The Adhesive and Your Teeth

The 2022 study also found that some bracket adhesives stained more than others. Your own teeth can stain too: the AAO notes that drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine can stain teeth, and food trapped around brackets adds to the problem.

How to Keep Clear Braces Looking Clear

1. Rinse or brush after coffee, tea, or red wine. The AAO recommends swishing water after eating to clear food from around braces and prevent plaque buildup and staining.
2. Go easy on curry and red wine in the weeks before a photo or event, since both were among the staining agents in the bracket study.
3. Keep your adjustment visits so stained ties get replaced on schedule.

Clear Braces at Bloom

Dr. Thao Nguyen Vu and Dr. Judy Nguyen are board-certified orthodontists who place clear braces at our Long Beach and Garden Grove offices. We replace the elastic ties at each adjustment and can talk through options if staining worries you. Your free consultation includes X-rays, records, and a treatment simulation.

Learn more on our clear braces page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do ceramic braces stain from coffee?

The brackets resist staining well, though heavy coffee exposure can change their color a little. The elastic ties are more likely to discolor and are replaced at each visit.

What part of clear braces turns yellow?

Usually the elastic ties around each bracket. Studies show esthetic ties stain noticeably within a month in the mouth.

Can stained ties be replaced?

Yes. Ties are changed at your regular adjustment visits.

Will my teeth be stained when the braces come off?

Good brushing and rinsing during treatment protect your teeth. Food and drinks can stain teeth with or without braces.

Sources

• Akyalcin S, Rykiss J, Rody WJ, Wiltshire WA. Digital analysis of staining properties of clear aesthetic brackets. J Orthod. 2012.
• Šimunović L, Blagec T, Vrankić A, Meštrović S. Color Stability of Orthodontic Ceramic Brackets and Adhesives in Potentially Staining Beverages. Dent J (Basel). 2022.
• Kawabata E, Dantas VL, Kato CB, Normando D. Color changes of esthetic orthodontic ligatures evaluated by orthodontists and patients. Dental Press J Orthod. 2016.
• American Association of Orthodontists, Life During Treatment
• American Association of Orthodontists, What Can I Eat With Braces?
• Bloom details: Clear braces

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