I remember a long time ago when the colored ties (the tiny rubber O's that hold the wire in the bracket slot) were first manufactured....the patient's loved them. "I can pick my own colors??!!" My staff and I enjoyed all of the combo's of colors and themes. The bad part was when we'd have to remove the little ties...plaque and left-over-food sling-shotted all over the place. Those little suckers are extremely difficult to clean around which lead to increased enamel scarring and decay formation. Dr. Dwight Damon pioneered the "self ligation bracket" that eliminated the need for an elastic O and that immediately reduced the plaque retention problem....Healthier teeth and gums, less swelling means better movement. Colored ties could be placed on Damon brackets but only for your entertainment and many offices don't want to increase the risk of enamel scarring. On the other hand, during a Damon treatment there may be a need to close spaces between teeth and then we encourage our patients to pick out the color of "elastic chain" they want us to use! Be assured that your orthodontist wants you to receive the best treatment possible with the highest degree of satisfaction for all. Choose the easiest brace to clean and delivers the lightest forces on your teeth, the Damon System.