What to Expect with Braces: Discomfort vs. Pain
If you're considering braces for yourself or your teen, one of the most common questions is: Do braces hurt? The short answer is—braces can cause some discomfort, especially at first, but the pain is generally mild and temporary.
Braces work by gradually moving your teeth into better alignment using gentle, consistent pressure. While this process is essential for creating a healthier, more functional smile, it does come with an adjustment period. The good news? Most people adapt quickly and find that any soreness fades within a few days.
Whether you're a teen starting orthodontic care or an adult finally investing in your smile, knowing what to expect makes all the difference.
When Does Braces Discomfort Happen?
Most patients report that discomfort is at its highest during specific points in the treatment process:
After Initial Placement
When your braces are first put on, your teeth and gums may feel sore or tender. This usually peaks within the first 24–48 hours. The soreness is caused by the new pressure being applied to your teeth and the adjustment your mouth has to make to the new hardware.
After Adjustments
Every few weeks, your orthodontist will tighten or adjust your braces. These appointments may lead to some soreness or pressure for a couple of days as your teeth begin to shift again.
When Soft Tissues Are Irritated
Your cheeks, lips, and tongue may become irritated in the beginning as they adjust to the brackets and wires. This is especially common for new braces wearers. The irritation tends to go away after a few weeks once your mouth gets used to the braces.
What Does Braces Discomfort Feel Like?
Patients often describe braces discomfort as:
- A dull ache in the teeth
- Pressure when biting down
- Sensitivity while eating
- Mild irritation from wires or brackets rubbing against soft tissue
This discomfort is typically manageable and not severe. Most people compare it to the feeling after a good workout—your muscles may feel sore, but it’s a sign that progress is happening.
How Long Does the Soreness Last?
For most patients, the most noticeable soreness happens in the first 2–3 days after getting braces or after adjustments. By day four or five, most people start feeling back to normal. Any minor irritation caused by brackets or wires typically fades within a couple of weeks.
If discomfort persists or worsens beyond a week, it’s best to contact your orthodontist. You could have a loose bracket, poking wire, or another issue that’s easy to fix but causing unnecessary discomfort.
Tips to Manage Braces Discomfort
There are plenty of simple strategies to help reduce soreness and make the adjustment process easier:
- Eat soft foods — Stick to foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, soups, pasta, and scrambled eggs during the first few days.
- Use orthodontic wax — Applying wax to brackets or wires that are rubbing against your cheeks or lips can reduce irritation.
- Rinse with salt water — Warm saltwater rinses help soothe sore gums and reduce inflammation.
- Take over-the-counter pain relief — Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen (as recommended) can help with temporary discomfort.
- Apply a cold compress — A cold pack placed on the outside of your cheek can reduce swelling and numb the area.
- Avoid hard or crunchy foods — Foods that require lots of chewing or biting may increase discomfort and damage brackets.
Will Braces Always Hurt?
The answer is no—braces do not hurt constantly throughout treatment. After the initial adjustment period and each follow-up appointment, your teeth may feel sore for a few days, but that feeling will fade.
As your treatment progresses, your mouth adjusts to the sensations, and many patients forget they’re even wearing braces most of the time. Some even find the process oddly satisfying—each adjustment brings them one step closer to their dream smile.
Do Adults and Teens Experience Pain Differently?
While everyone’s pain tolerance is different, both teens and adults go through similar stages of braces discomfort. Some adults may report slightly more sensitivity at first, since their teeth and jaws are no longer growing. However, most adult patients handle braces very well with minimal issues.
In teens, the body’s natural growth phase can sometimes make tooth movement slightly faster and more comfortable. Either way, proper care and preparation make the experience manageable at any age.
When Should You Call Your Orthodontist?
While mild discomfort is expected, there are situations that require a call to your orthodontist:
- A wire is poking or causing significant irritation
- A bracket is loose or broken
- You experience sharp, persistent pain that doesn’t go away after a few days
- You notice unusual swelling or signs of infection
Prompt care ensures your treatment stays on track and prevents unnecessary discomfort.
The Takeaway: Braces Discomfort Is Temporary, Results Are Long-Lasting
Braces may cause temporary soreness—but the process is completely manageable, especially with the right preparation and support. Most patients report that the discomfort is short-lived and well worth the results.
You’re not alone in wondering what braces feel like. Teens and adults alike often have the same concerns—but once treatment begins, they quickly realize that the journey is smoother than expected.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
At Albrechtsen & Fanelli Orthodontics in Ogden, we make your comfort a top priority. Our expert team will walk you through every step of the process, provide tips for reducing discomfort, and ensure your treatment is as smooth as possible.
Schedule your free consultation today to find out how we can help you or your teen achieve a healthier, more confident smile—without unnecessary stress.