Although braces are the tried-and-true solution for straightening smiles, they notoriously make patients of all ages self-conscious about their appearance. The bulky metal brackets tend to stand out and draw unwanted attention to the condition of your child’s grin, and they could develop anxiety about being judged.
Thankfully, there are ways you can help them ease their worry over the way their teeth look. For instance, you can help them choose rubber band colors for their orthodontics that help their teeth look whiter in comparison. Read on to learn more about the different shades that can help their teeth look brighter to boost their confidence and which ones to avoid!
Which Rubber Band Colors Help Teeth Look Whiter?
It’s only natural to want to help your child look their best so they can feel good about themselves. Selectively choosing orthodontic bands that highlight the white in their teeth can give them something to smile about when they’re worried about how their friends might perceive them.
To help their grin look lighter, you can encourage them to opt for darker rubber bands that contrast against the naturally off-white tone of their enamel. For instance, royal or navy blue, purple, and even black cause their pearly whites to shine against the deeper hues. However, if their teeth have more of a yellow tint, they may want to choose clear or silver bands.
Other lighter, cooler shades can also help create the illusion of brighter teeth. Have your child request light pink or pale blue bands and see which they like best!
Which Rubber Band Colors Should Be Avoided?
If you’re worried that your youth will choose a color that might have the opposite effect, you might want to warn them to steer clear of yellow or gold tones that will only highlight any existing discoloration in their smile. Also, you might recommend that they avoid dark green or brown rubber bands because they might be mistaken for trapped food- yuck!
Although it’s easy to assume that white bands will help, these tend to become discolored over time and will only draw attention to any blemishes or stains in your little one’s grin. The same is true for white brackets themselves. You might ask your provider if they offer clear brackets instead to allow more of your child’s natural enamel to show through.
If your little one is worried about how they look with braces, choosing the right colored rubber bands can help boost their self-esteem!
About the Practice
At G&G Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, your family benefits from a husband-and-wife team that offers a wide range of services for still-developing grins. Dr. Nicole and Dr. Cory are members of the American Dental Association and the American Board of Orthodontics, among many other professional organizations, so you know your child’s teeth are in good hands. They go above and beyond to ensure a safe and educational experience for patients of all ages. If your child needs braces, you can request an appointment on the website or call (630) 778-9500.
