It’s completely normal to feel nervous about how much braces might hurt – especially during the first few days. The truth? braces don’t cause sharp pain, just a dull, pressure-like ache as your teeth begin to move. And that feeling fades faster than most patients expect.
Below you’ll find exactly what to expect, when it happens, and how to make braces pain go away quickly.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- Braces soreness peaks around day 2 and fades within a week.
- Each tightening causes a smaller, short-lived ache lasting 1–2 days.
- Soft foods, orthodontic wax and saltwater rinses bring fast relief.
- Persistent sharp pain or loose brackets? Contact your orthodontist for a quick adjustment.
💡 Quick Answer: Braces do hurt a little – mostly in the first 48 hours – but the discomfort is mild, temporary, and a sign your treatment is working.
🧭 Jump to:
| 📅 When Does Braces Pain Start? | 😣 What Does It Feel Like? |
| ⚖️ First Day vs Tightening | 🧊 How to Relieve Braces Pain |
| 🧬 Why Braces Hurt at First | 💪 Are Braces Worth It? |
| ✅ Book Your Free Consultation | |
Braces Pain Timeline at a Glance
| Stage | Typical Pain Level / 10 | Duration | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1–2 (Fitting) | 5–7 | 48 hrs | Tightness and pressure build; use soft foods. |
| Days 3–5 | 3–4 | 3 days | Pain subsides; mild tenderness remains. |
| After 1 Week | 1–2 | Ongoing | Braces feel normal; brief aches after tightenings. |
When Does Braces Pain Start – and How Long Does It Last?
Braces pain doesn’t hit all at once – it builds gradually, peaks around day two, and fades after the first week. You’ll also experience shorter bursts of soreness after adjustment appointments.
Here’s a breakdown of what most patients experience:
Day 1 – Fitting Day
Pain Level: 4-6/10
You likely won’t feel anything immediately – but by the evening, you’ll start to notice a deep pressure building in your teeth. You might struggle with firmer foods, and the braces may start to rub against your cheeks or lips.
Day 2 – The Peak
Pain Level: 6-7/10
This is usually the worst day. Your teeth and gums will feel sore, and biting into soft foods might feel uncomfortable. Eating and brushing may feel difficult. Mild ulcers may start to form where brackets rub.
Days 3-5 – Easing Off
Pain Level: 3-4/10
By now, most of the tightness has faded. You’ll still feel some soreness when chewing, but things begin to stabilise. You can eat soft solids again and will start to feel more used to the sensation of braces.
Week 2 Onwards – Minimal Pain
Pain Level: 0-2/10
Most people feel little to no pain after the first week. Occasional tenderness might return after adjustments, but it passes quickly. Braces become part of your normal routine, and discomfort becomes rare.
After Adjustments – The Mini Reset
Each time your braces are tightened, you may feel a smaller version of the initial soreness. It usually lasts 1–2 days.
💡 Key takeaway: Braces pain is temporary, predictable, and manageable – with the most discomfort occurring in the first 48 hours.
What Does Braces Pain Feel Like?
Braces pain is rarely sharp – it’s more of a deep, pressurised ache that comes and goes.
Most patients describe it as:
- A dull soreness in the teeth and gums
- A sense of tightness or pressure, especially when biting
- Tenderness when brushing or eating certain foods
- Occasional rubbing or irritation inside the cheeks (from the brackets)
It’s uncomfortable, yes – but never unbearable. Most people say the idea of braces pain is worse than the reality. Once your mouth adjusts, the discomfort fades and the routine sets in.
Fast Summary: What Braces Pain Feels Like
- Not sharp – more like a bruise or pressure
- Hurts most in the first 48 hours
- Comes back mildly after adjustments
- Easier to manage with soft foods, wax, and pain relief
Do Braces Hurt More on the First Day or After Tightening?
Most patients find that Day 2 after getting braces is the most painful point in the entire journey.
When your braces are first fitted, it takes a few hours for the pressure to build. By the next day, your teeth and gums are adjusting rapidly – causing peak soreness. That’s the worst it gets.
After that, the only other time you’ll feel a similar (but usually milder) ache is after tightening appointments. These mini-resets cause temporary discomfort, but they don’t last as long.
| Stage | Pain Level | Duration | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fitting (Day 2) | 6-7/10 | 2-3 days | Deep pressure, sore teeth, rubbing |
| Tightening | 4-6/10 | 1-2 days | Temporary tightness, easing quickly |
💡 Key takeaway: Braces hurt more on Day 2 than after most adjustments – but both are short-lived and completely manageable.
How to Relieve Braces Pain (Fast)
The good news? You don’t have to just grin and bear it. Here are the most effective ways to reduce braces pain – especially during the first week or after an adjustment.
1. Stick to Soft, Cool Foods
Avoid crunchy, chewy, or spicy foods that might aggravate sore teeth and gums. Great options include: mashed potatoes, soup, scrambled eggs, yoghurt, smoothies, and pasta.
2. Take Pain Relief if Needed
Mild over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol can reduce inflammation and ease discomfort. (Always follow dosage instructions or speak to your dentist if unsure. For general advice, see NHS guidance on dental pain relief.)
3. Use Orthodontic Wax
If brackets are rubbing against your cheeks or lips, apply a small ball of orthodontic wax to the area. It creates a smooth barrier and helps prevent ulcers.
4. Try a Saltwater Rinse
A warm saltwater rinse (1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) can soothe sore spots and reduce bacteria in your mouth.
A warm saltwater rinse (1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) can soothe sore spots and reduce bacteria in your mouth. Mayo Clinic lists saltwater rinses as a safe, gentle way to relieve oral discomfort.
5. Apply a Cold Compress
Press a cold flannel or ice pack against the outside of your jaw to numb pain and reduce swelling.
6. Don’t Power Through the Pain
Rest your mouth. Avoid tough foods and excessive chewing during peak soreness. The quicker you reduce pressure, the faster your body adapts.
7. Contact Your Orthodontist if Something Feels Wrong
If the pain feels sharp, gets worse, or you notice a loose bracket or poking wire, contact your dentist or orthodontist. Minor adjustments can make a huge difference.
💡 Tip: Most discomfort fades within a few days. But having these tools ready from Day 1 makes a huge difference.
Why Do Braces Hurt in the First Place?
Braces hurt because they’re working. The discomfort you feel – especially early on – is a direct result of your teeth starting to move.
Here’s what’s happening under the surface:
- Braces apply gentle, consistent pressure – Through brackets, wires, and elastics, your braces apply small amounts of force to your teeth.
- Your body senses the pressure – That pressure stimulates the tissues and bone surrounding your teeth. It’s a bit like how your muscles feel sore after a good workout – your mouth is adjusting to a new demand.
- Bone remodelling begins – This process, called orthodontic bone remodelling, involves breaking down bone on one side of each tooth and rebuilding it on the other. That’s what allows teeth to shift safely into better positions. This process – known as orthodontic bone remodelling – is a natural biological response that enables safe tooth movement.
“The pain isn’t damage – it’s progress.”
This applies to all types of orthodontic treatment – whether you’re using metal braces, ceramic braces, Damon braces, or a clear aligner system like Invisalign.
So yes – braces cause discomfort. But it’s not a bad sign. It’s your body responding exactly how it should to create lasting, healthy change.
Are Braces Worth the Pain?
Absolutely – and most patients say the same thing once their braces treatment is complete.
Yes, the first few days can be uncomfortable. But that temporary ache leads to long-term benefits that last a lifetime:
- A healthier bite that reduces wear, jaw strain, and future dental issues
- A straighter smile that boosts your confidence and self-image
- Easier brushing and flossing, lowering your risk of decay and gum problems
- Improved speech and chewing function for many patients
“You won’t remember the ache – but you will remember the results.”
Whether you choose fixed braces or Invisalign, the discomfort is short-term. The transformation isn’t.
Ready to Start Your Braces Journey?
If you’re worried about pain or unsure if braces are right for you – you’re not alone. Most patients feel exactly the same before they start. And once they do? They wonder why they waited.
Our team has helped thousands of adults and teens get the results they want – with clear advice, gentle treatment, and support at every step.
📍 Visit us at our Central London clinics:
💬 What’s included in your free consultation:
- A full teeth and bite assessment
- Advice on treatment options (Invisalign, fixed braces, ceramic, etc.)
- A clear quote – no pressure, no hidden fees
- Time to ask every question that’s on your mind
- ✅ Over 2,500 successful braces cases
- ✅ Top 1% Invisalign provider
- ✅ 0% finance options available
- ✅ Same-week appointments often available
Your new smile starts here – and it starts pain-free.
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