Do Braces Hurt? What to Expect and Tips to Ease Discomfort

Getting braces is a big step towards the perfect smile, but at the same time, it can be nerve-wracking. You're on your way to a beautiful, confident smile, but at the cost of your comfort. You compromise your comfort to get the perfectly aligned smile. But let us tell you that whether you’re considering getting braces or you've just had them placed, it's natural to wonder how much discomfort to expect and how to deal with it.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through where and when braces hurt, how to manage orthodontic discomfort, and explore effective braces pain relief options, including a nearly pain-free alternative.

Do Braces Hurt?

A common question asked by many! Let’s cut to the chase: yes, braces can cause discomfort, the pain isn’t constant, and it doesn’t always feel like the intense kind of pain people sometimes fear. Orthodontic discomfort can affect different areas of the mouth, depending on the treatment stage and alignment needs. Here are the answers to some of the questions that might come to your mind.

Why Do Braces Hurt?

Most of the discomfort comes from the gentle but steady pressure your orthodontist applies to gradually move your teeth into proper alignment. That pressure is what helps transform your smile, so while it might feel a bit uncomfortable, it’s actually a sign your braces are doing their job.

What Does the Pain Feel Like

The pain can be temporary or permanent. Many people describe it as a dull ache, or general tenderness, or the braces tightening pain, especially during the first few days after getting braces or after an adjustment. It’s more like post-workout muscle soreness than sharp pain.

How Long Does the Pain Last?

The discomfort usually only lasts a few days after the initial placement and after each adjustment. Your mouth will gradually get used to the braces, the the pain and discomfort can be felt every time you go for the minor adjustments.

When to Expect Braces Discomfort

Braces don’t hurt all the time, but there are certain moments when you’re more likely to feel discomfort. Knowing when you can expect the pain or discomfort can actually help you prepare.

Right After Getting Them

When you get the braces, you might face some discomfort. The initial days usually go like this. Your teeth, gums, and cheeks are all adjusting to something new, and a lot is going on in there! You might feel a dull ache or soreness, and your mouth may feel a little tender or tight. It’s completely normal, and thankfully, this phase doesn’t last too long. Most people feel much better after the first week.

After Adjustments

You will need to visit your orthodontist for a braces adjustment. This usually means tightening the wires to keep your teeth moving in the right direction. And yes, that pressure can bring back some of the original soreness. But the good news is, it’s usually not as intense or long-lasting as when you first got your braces.

When You Get Them Taken Off

When your teeth are straightened and your orthodontic treatment is completed, you go for the final appointment with your orthodontist to take your braces off. When your braces are being removed, you might feel some soreness and or some discomfort.

Which Areas of the Mouth Hurt with Braces?

Brace discomfort isn’t the same for everyone. It can vary depending on your mouth, your pain tolerance, and what stage of treatment you’re in. But generally, there are a few common areas where people tend to feel it the most. Let’s break it down:

Teeth

This is the main area where you’ll notice soreness, especially after your braces are first put on or after each adjustment. Your teeth are shifting into new positions, and that gentle pressure can make them feel tender or achy, particularly the front teeth, which often move first. It’s a bit like the feeling you get after biting into something super cold or after clenching your jaw for too long.

Gums

As your teeth start to shift, your gums might feel a little swollen or sensitive. This is just your body responding to the changes happening underneath the surface. It’s usually a mild discomfort.

Lips and Cheeks

Getting braces can lead to some rubbing or irritation on the inside of your lips and cheeks. But over time, your skin adjusts and becomes more resistant to the friction.

Effective Braces Pain Relief Tips

Now, let's talk about some good stuff, which is how to actually feel better when your braces are giving you a hard time. The truth is, a little discomfort is part of the braces journey, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through it. There are plenty of ways that will help you manage soreness.

Home Remedies

Managing brace soreness doesn’t have to be complicated, sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most effective. These natural remedies are easy, gentle, and can make a noticeable difference in how your mouth feels.

Salt Water

One of the oldest tricks in the book is the saltwater rinse! Swishing with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation, ease gum irritation, and promote healing. Just mix a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and rinse a few times a day.

Cold Food and Drinks

If you are an ice cream lover, this is your official excuse to enjoy ice cream! Cold temperatures help numb sore spots and reduce swelling. Try sipping on cold water, eating popsicles, or holding a chilled spoon against a tender area inside your mouth.

Soft Diet

When your teeth are sore, crunchy or chewy foods can make things worse. Avoid these kinds of foods and try to eat soft food like mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, oatmeal, soups, smoothies, and yogurt.

Orthodontic Wax

You can use orthodontic wax if the brackets and wires of your braces are rubbing against your cheeks or lips. Just roll a small piece into a ball and press it over the bothersome area. It’ll create a smooth surface and give your mouth a much-needed break.

Professional Treatments for Orthodontic Pain Management

If home remedies aren’t cutting it, there are also professional and over-the-counter solutions to help you out.

Pain Relievers

For more persistent discomfort, especially after getting your braces tightened, pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can really help. Always follow the dosage instructions, and talk to your orthodontist if you’re unsure what’s safe to take.

Orthodontist Adjustments

Sometimes, pain isn’t just from pressure, it could be a wire poking your cheek or a bracket that doesn’t sit quite right. Don’t panic! A quick visit to your orthodontist can fix the issue in no time and save you a lot of discomfort.

Topical Oral Anesthetics

Gels like Orajel or Anbesol can be applied directly to sore spots in your mouth to numb the area temporarily. They’re especially helpful if you have a specific area that’s particularly irritated.

Clear Aligners: A Pain-free Alternative

If the thought of brackets, wires, and monthly tightening appointments makes you a little uneasy, you’re not alone. Traditional braces have come a long way in terms of design and comfort, but they still involve a fair amount of hardware in your mouth. That’s where clear aligners come in. They’re quickly becoming the go-to choice for people who want a more comfortable and convenient orthodontic experience.

What are Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are custom-made, transparent trays that gently guide your teeth into place. They fit snugly over your teeth and are changed out every couple of weeks to continue the movement. One of the biggest reasons people love them? They’re smooth, subtle, and typically cause far less discomfort than metal braces.

Comfort Comparison Between Clear Aligners and Traditional Braces

Let’s take a quick look at how traditional braces and clear aligners compare in terms of comfort and day-to-day experience:

Bite Better With Smilepath Clear Aligners

Not all clear aligners are created equal. When it comes to getting clear aligners that are high quality and affordable, there is no competitor to Smilepath in New Zealand. Designed with both comfort and effectiveness in mind, Smilepath Clear Aligners offer a smoother, more enjoyable path to a straighter smile.

Reasons to Love Smilepath Clear Aligners

If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional braces that won’t leave your mouth sore and irritated, here’s why Smilepath might just be the perfect fit for you.

Customized Just for You

Every smile is unique, and your aligners should be too. Smilepath Clear Aligners are custom-made using the impressions you make to ensure they match the exact shape and size of your teeth. This personalized fit doesn’t just help your aligners work more efficiently, but it also makes them feel more natural and comfortable from day one.

Safe and High-quality

Comfort shouldn’t come at the cost of safety. Smilepath aligners are made from premium-quality, BPA-free plastic that’s gentle on your gums and teeth. You can wear them with confidence, knowing they’re crafted from materials that are both safe and durable, perfect for everyday wear.

Affordable

Let’s be honest—orthodontic treatments can be expensive. But Smilepath is changing that. Smilepath offers one of the most budget-friendly options on the market, making a straight smile more accessible than ever. Also, monthly installment plans are available, so you don’t have to pay a lump sum upfront.

Use of Latest Technology

We use advanced technology throughout the treatment. You get to see the smile you will get after the treatment before the treatment is even started through 3D smile projection. Also, you can track your progress and get timely notifications through our AlignerTracker app .

Braces Discomfort No More

Getting braces or starting orthodontic treatment is a big decision, and it’s totally normal to feel a little anxious about the potential discomfort. But here’s the truth: while some soreness is part of the journey, it’s completely manageable with the right care, support, and solutions. Whether it’s simple home remedies like saltwater rinses and soft foods, or professional tips like orthodontic wax and pain relievers, there’s no reason to suffer through your smile transformation.

And if you’re someone who values comfort, convenience, and a low-stress experience, clear aligners might be your best bet, especially with Smilepath. With our custom-fit, BPA-free materials and sleek, irritation-free design, Smilepath Clear Aligners are made to work with your lifestyle, not against it. Plus, with cutting-edge technology like 3D smile projection and the AlignerTracker app, you’re always in control of your progress and your smile goals.

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