If you or your child is starting orthodontic treatment, you’ve probably wondered: Are braces going to hurt?. Yes it does, but not in the way you might expect. Even though braces are more common in children, many adults, especially those between 18 and 30, are also undergoing treatment and learning to manage this initial phase.
Most patients experience mild soreness or pressure, especially when braces are first put on or after adjustments. This is completely normal and part of how braces do their job.
Braces work by gently shifting your teeth into better alignment over time. That movement can cause some temporary discomfort, especially in the first few days of treatment or right after a tightening. You might also feel some irritation where the brackets or wires rub against the inside of your mouth. Most of this discomfort is short-lived and there are simple ways to relieve it at home.
Whether you’re new to braces or just had your latest adjustment, we’ll walk you through what to expect and how to make things more comfortable along the way.
Why Do Your Braces Hurt?
Braces work by applying steady pressure to shift your teeth into the right position. That movement takes time and it can be a little uncomfortable now and then. But when and how does it cause discomfort?
You Will Feel Pain When You First Get Braces
When your braces are first placed, your mouth is adjusting to something completely new. The pressure on your teeth starts right away, and your cheeks, gums, and lips are suddenly rubbing against brackets and wires. It’s common to feel soreness for the first few days and varies from person to person. Chewing might be tough at first, and you might notice irritation inside your mouth.
Usually, this initial discomfort fades after about a week as your mouth gets used to the new setup.
You Will Feel Pain After Braces Adjustment
Even after that first week, your teeth will still need some nudging. Every time you visit your orthodontist for an adjustment, the braces are tightened enough to keep the process moving. That tightening causes your teeth to shift again, and that often brings a bit of soreness along with it.
This type of pain usually starts a few hours after the adjustment and may last a couple of days. To minimize the discomfort from braces, eat soft foods and use cold compresses.
Home Remedies to Relieve Braces Pain
Some soreness is a normal part of the braces process, especially during the early days or after an adjustment. There are several simple and effective home remedies to ease the pain from braces without needing a special trip to the store.
Salt Water Rinses
Mix a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth for about 30 seconds. It’s an old trick, but it works. Salt water can help soothe irritated areas and keep them clean, especially if you’ve got small cuts or sore spots.
Cold Compress or Ice Packs
Press a cold pack or a clean cloth with ice against your cheek—right over the sore area. The cold helps numb the pain and reduce any swelling. Even sipping cold water can give you a little relief.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
If the discomfort is affecting your ability to eat or sleep, an over-the-counter pain reliever can help ease the soreness. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the label, and if you’re ever unsure about what’s best for you, reach out to your orthodontist for advice.
Orthodontic Products That Can Help
Along with home remedies, there are a few helpful products made specifically for patients using braces. These tools can offer extra relief, especially when brackets or wires are causing irritation, or when you’re looking for added comfort during your daily routine.
Orthodontic Wax
If a bracket or wire is rubbing against the inside of your mouth, orthodontic wax can help. Just roll a small piece between your fingers and press it onto the spot that’s bothering you. It acts like a cushion between the metal and your skin.
Silicone Covers and Mouth Guards
If you play sports or grind your teeth at night, a mouth guard or silicone cover can protect your braces and prevent soreness. Your orthodontist can help you find the right fit for your needs.
Dental Numbing Gels
You can find gels at most pharmacies that numb sore areas inside your mouth. These aren’t meant for constant use, but they can be a big help during those first few days or after a tough adjustment.
Control Your Food Habits
Stick to soft foods during the first few days after getting braces or following an adjustment. Eat things like scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, cooked pasta, smoothies, and soup. These foods put less pressure on sore teeth and make chewing more manageable.
Avoid hard and sticky foods such as popcorn, nuts, gum, and chewy candy. These can damage brackets or bend wires, which often leads to more soreness and can delay your treatment.
Drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated. It helps keep your mouth clean and reduces irritation caused by dryness or friction from the braces.
Long-Term Tips for Managing Braces Pain
Incorporating a few daily habits will help your braces experience more comfortable over time:
- Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritating sore areas.
- Use flossing tools made for braces to keep your teeth and gums clean.
- Keep up with your regular appointments so your treatment stays on track.
- Don’t ignore pain that feels sharp, constant, or unusual, check in with your orthodontist if anything feels off.
When to See Your Orthodontist
A little soreness is normal, but some things you shouldn’t ignore. If you notice a wire poking your cheek, a bracket that’s come loose, or mouth sores that don’t go away, it’s time to give your orthodontist a call. It’s always better to check than to wait.
See Spearmint Dental & Orthodontics For Your Braces Need
Braces might take some getting used to, but the results are more than worth it. At Spearmint Dental & Orthodontics in Wichita Falls and Princeton, Texas, we’re here to make your journey to a great smile as comfortable as possible.
If you’re experiencing pain or just have questions about caring for your braces, reach out to use by filling up the form. Our friendly team is ready to help you every step of the way.
