Look at the ring

The model colors the ligature, not the bracket or archwire. Some brackets instead hold the wire with a built-in clip.

Choosing Purple means purple rings in this illustration; the teeth, bracket and wire stay unchanged.

Similar words, different jobs

Separately prescribed force elastics have a different job from wire-holding ligatures.

That distinction helps you name your preference accurately: show your team the color name and identify the pictured ring. Follow their directions for your actual appliance; this tool gives no instructions for changing it.

For a fuller component explanation, read the braces parts guide.

Explore clear-aligner care as a separate conversation.

Sources and context

AAO component FAQ

AAO glossary

Aligner source