When considering orthodontic treatment, one of the most common questions patients have is: “Do braces hurt?” The thought of pain can make anyone hesitate about starting treatment, but the truth is that while braces can cause some discomfort, it is typically manageable and temporary. Understanding the source of the discomfort, when it happens, and how to relieve it can help you feel more confident and prepared for your orthodontic journey.
Let’s explore why braces cause discomfort, what to expect at different stages of treatment, and practical ways to manage and minimize the soreness.
Why Do Braces Cause Discomfort?
Braces work by applying gentle, consistent pressure to gradually shift your teeth into their proper positions. This pressure is what leads to mild to moderate discomfort, especially right after adjustments or when braces are first applied.
The Primary Sources of Braces Discomfort
- Pressure on Teeth: The movement of teeth through bone tissue is what creates the sensation of soreness or tightness.
- Soft Tissue Irritation: Brackets and wires can rub against the inside of your cheeks, lips, and tongue, causing small sores or tenderness.
- Tightening and Adjustments: Periodic wire adjustments are necessary to keep the teeth moving, which can temporarily intensify pressure.
When Does Braces Discomfort Happen?
1. When Braces Are First Applied
The first few days after getting braces are usually when patients feel the most discomfort. Your mouth is adjusting to the new hardware, and your teeth are starting to respond to the applied pressure.
2. After Routine Adjustments
During your orthodontic treatment, your braces will need regular tightening or wire changes. It’s common to feel some soreness for a day or two after these adjustments.
3. When Brackets or Wires Irritate Soft Tissue
Sometimes, brackets or wires may poke or rub the inside of your mouth. This can cause small sores, especially in the beginning, before your mouth toughens up.
4. When Wearing Rubber Bands or Other Appliances
If your orthodontist adds elastics, springs, or other accessories to your braces, you may experience new areas of pressure that can cause temporary discomfort.
How Long Does the Discomfort Last?
Braces discomfort typically peaks within the first 24-72 hours and subsides gradually after that. For most people:
- Initial soreness lasts 3-7 days after braces are applied.
- Adjustment soreness lasts 1-3 days after each orthodontic visit.
After the initial adjustment period, most patients become accustomed to their braces and feel little to no ongoing discomfort.
How to Manage Braces Discomfort
The good news is that braces pain is manageable, and there are many simple strategies you can use to feel more comfortable throughout your treatment.
1. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
Taking acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can effectively reduce soreness and inflammation. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your orthodontist or pharmacist.
2. Orthodontic Wax
Orthodontic wax is a lifesaver for soft tissue irritation. Apply a small amount of wax over brackets or wires that are causing discomfort to create a smooth barrier.
You can learn more about how to use orthodontic wax properly by visiting our Braces Care Tips page.
3. Eat Soft Foods
Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods like mashed potatoes, smoothies, yogurt, soup, and scrambled eggs during the first few days after getting braces or after adjustments.
Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can increase pain or damage your braces.
4. Saltwater Rinses
A warm saltwater rinse can help soothe sores and speed up healing. Mix one teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth gently several times a day.
5. Cold Compress or Ice Packs
Applying a cold compress to your cheeks for 10-15 minutes can help reduce inflammation and numb soreness.
6. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps maintain good oral health and can soothe irritated areas. Cold water, in particular, can offer temporary pain relief.
7. Use Oral Anesthetic Gels
Products like Orajel® can be applied directly to sore spots inside your mouth to temporarily numb the area and ease discomfort.
8. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
Keeping your teeth and braces clean reduces the risk of plaque buildup, which can lead to additional gum sensitivity or oral health issues that might worsen discomfort.
Visit our Braces Maintenance Guide for step-by-step instructions on brushing and flossing with braces.
When to Contact Your Orthodontist
While mild discomfort is normal, you should contact your orthodontist if:
- A wire is poking into your cheek or gum.
- A bracket comes loose or breaks.
- You experience severe pain that doesn’t improve with home remedies.
- You notice signs of infection, like swelling, pus, or fever.
Your orthodontic team can make small adjustments or provide additional guidance to quickly resolve these issues.
Braces Discomfort: A Sign of Progress
Though it’s not pleasant, the minor discomfort associated with braces is actually a positive sign that your teeth are moving as planned. The pressure means your orthodontic treatment is working, and each day brings you closer to achieving a straight, beautiful smile.
By staying informed and using the right pain management strategies, you can make your braces journey as smooth and comfortable as possible.
For personalized care and expert orthodontic guidance, schedule a consultation with East TN Orthodontics today and let us help you achieve your best smile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Braces Discomfort
Do braces hurt the entire time you have them?
No, braces do not hurt throughout the entire treatment. Most patients only experience soreness for a few days after braces are applied or adjusted. Once your mouth adjusts, you typically won’t feel ongoing pain.
How long does it take for braces pain to go away?
Braces discomfort usually lasts 3-7 days after braces are applied and 1-3 days after each adjustment. The soreness gradually fades as your teeth and mouth adapt.
What can I eat when my braces hurt?
When your braces are sore, stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes, smoothies, scrambled eggs, pasta, yogurt, and soups. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can worsen the pain.
Are clear aligners less painful than braces?
Clear aligners like Invisalign® generally cause less discomfort than traditional braces because they don’t involve brackets or wires. However, they can still create mild soreness when switching to a new set of trays.
How can I stop braces from cutting my mouth?
Using orthodontic wax over sharp brackets or wires can help prevent cuts and irritation. You can also rinse with saltwater to soothe sores. Contact your orthodontist if a wire is poking you.
Can I take painkillers for braces pain?
Yes, over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can effectively relieve braces pain. Always follow dosage recommendations from your orthodontist or the medication label.
Should I expect pain after every adjustment?
It’s common to feel mild soreness for 1-3 days after each braces adjustment as your teeth begin to move again. This is usually less intense than the discomfort experienced when braces are first applied.
Will braces make my teeth loose?
Yes, slightly loose teeth are part of the normal orthodontic process. Braces gradually move teeth through bone, which can create a feeling of looseness. This is temporary and resolves after treatment.
Can I speed up the adjustment to braces pain?
While you can’t speed up the tooth movement, using pain relief strategies like cold compresses, soft foods, and saltwater rinses can help you feel more comfortable during the adjustment period.
What should I do if braces pain is severe?
If you experience severe pain that doesn’t improve with home remedies or over-the-counter medication, contact your orthodontist immediately. Severe discomfort may indicate a problem that needs to be corrected.