Getting braces is a big decision, and one of the most common concerns patients have is whether braces hurt. The short answer is that braces may cause some discomfort, but the pain is usually mild and temporary.
When braces are initially placed, most patients feel pressure rather than sharp pain. The process itself is painless, but within a few hours, your teeth may start to feel sore as they adjust to the pressure of the wires.
Most people experience:
Tenderness when biting or chewing
Mild aching in teeth and gums
Discomfort lasting 3-7 days (varies by person)
Tip: Stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies during the first week.
Braces require adjustments every 4-8 weeks to keep teeth moving. After each tightening, you may experience:
Increased soreness for 1-3 days
Tightness when chewing
Possible irritation from wires or brackets
The discomfort is usually less intense than the initial placement.
Mouth Sores from Brackets Solution: Use orthodontic wax to cover sharp edges
Poking Wires Solution: Gently push the wire back with a cotton swab or visit your orthodontist
Jaw Discomfort Solution: Do gentle jaw stretches and avoid hard foods
First week: Most discomfort occurs
After adjustments: 1-3 days of soreness
Between appointments: Little to no pain
Note: Severe, ongoing pain could indicate an issue like a broken bracket or infection.
Use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen
Rinse with warm salt water
Eat soft foods
Apply orthodontic wax
Use a cold compress
Clear aligners typically cause less discomfort than traditional braces because:
No metal brackets rubbing against gums
Gradual pressure adjustments
Removable for eating
Some patients still feel tightness when switching to new trays.
While braces may cause temporary discomfort, the long-term benefits—straighter teeth, better bite, and improved confidence—far outweigh the short-term soreness. Most patients adjust within a week and find the process manageable with simple pain relief strategies.
