Do Braces Hurt? What to Expect & How to Ease the Pain

Whites Dental Waterloo

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Whites Dental Marble Arch (W2)

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Quick Answer: Do Braces Hurt?

Yes – braces do hurt, especially in the first few days after fitting or tightening. But it’s a dull, pressurised ache, not a sharp pain – and it fades fast.

Most of our patients rate the discomfort as follows:

It’s completely normal to feel tenderness as your teeth begin to shift. The good news? It means the treatment is working. And there are plenty of simple ways to relieve the pain quickly (we’ll cover those shortly).

💡 Short answer: Braces hurt a little – but never for long, and never without purpose.

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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:

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

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:

“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:

“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.

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Your new smile starts here – and it starts pain-free.

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