Do Braces Hurt? What to Expect and How to Stay Comfortable?
Below, we answer the most common questions people have about braces and pain, so you feel confident and prepared for your smile journey.
What Does It Feel Like to Get Braces Put On?
When braces are first placed on your teeth, most patients are surprised at how easy and simple the process feels. It usually does not involve any pain. The orthodontist carefully places brackets on your teeth and attaches a small wire to gently guide tooth movement over time.
What will I feel?
You may feel pressure as the wire is placed, and your cheeks may feel like there is something new in your mouth, but this is mostly just an adjustment period.
How long until I get used to braces?
Most patients get used to braces within 3 to 5 days. Your mouth learns to adapt, just like getting used to new shoes.
Why Do Braces Cause Discomfort After Placement?
Braces gently move your teeth to healthier positions. To do this, light pressure is applied. This pressure is what can cause temporary soreness. Your teeth, gums, and sometimes your jaw may feel tender. This is normal, expected, and a sign that the braces are working.
How Long Does the Soreness Usually Last?
The soreness usually lasts only a few days. Most people feel relief by day three and are completely comfortable by day five.
However, soreness can return slightly after follow-up tightening appointments. This is normal and usually lasts even less time than the initial adjustment.
Quick Timeline:
Stage | What to Expect |
Day 1 | Pressure and mild soreness begin |
Days 2–3 | Peak Soreness |
Days 2–3 | Discomfort fades |
After Week 1 | Mouth feels normal with braces |
Do Braces Hurt During the Entire Treatment?
No, braces do not hurt the entire time you are wearing them. Most of the treatment is actually comfortable. Once your mouth gets used to the braces, many patients say they barely notice them in their daily routine. So while there are short periods of mild pressure, braces should not cause ongoing pain.
Do Braces Hurt More for Kids or Adults?
Both kids and adults experience similar levels of discomfort. However, kids and teens often adjust faster because their tissues are more flexible. Adults may feel a bit more at the beginning, but they also adapt within a few days.
Are There Different Types of Braces and Do They Hurt Differently?
Yes, there are different kinds of braces, and the experience is slightly different:
Type of Braces | Comfort Experience |
Metal Braces | Most common, very effective, mild soreness at start |
Ceramic Braces | Similar to metal braces but less noticeable |
Self-Ligating Braces | Often reduce pressure during adjustments |
While the type of braces can influence how pressure is distributed, they all work by slowly moving teeth, so some mild soreness is normal for all types.
What If My Pain Feels Too Strong?
If soreness feels more intense than expected, contact your orthodontic office. Sometimes a small adjustment or additional wax can help. Pain that feels sharp or continues longer than a week is uncommon and should be checked.
Remember, communication is key. You are never expected to handle discomfort alone.
Will I Be Able to Eat Normally With Braces?
Yes. You will be able to enjoy most of the foods you love. It is best to start with soft foods for the first few days, then slowly return to your usual meals. Avoid very sticky, chewy, or crunchy foods that could damage the brackets.
Examples of good first-week foods:
- Smoothies
- Rice
- Soft veggies
- Eggs
- Soft fruits
- Pasta
As your comfort returns, you can broaden your choices.
Why Is It Worth It?
The temporary soreness is small compared to the long-term benefits:
- A healthier bite
- Easier cleaning and oral hygiene
- A confident smile
- Lifelong dental comfort
Most patients say it is absolutely worth it. Many even say the process was easier than they imagined.
What Does Dr. Joseph Porter Want You to Know Before Starting Braces?
If braces are new to you, it’s natural to feel a little nervous. But remember, the discomfort is temporary, manageable, and a normal part of moving your teeth into their ideal positions. You’re not alone in this journey. Dr. Joseph Porter and the caring team at Porter Orthodontics in Baton Rouge are here to guide you every step of the way, helping you feel confident, supported, and comfortable throughout your treatment.
Ready to begin your smile journey? Schedule your free exam today and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.
FAQ About Braces and Discomfort
Do braces hurt when they are first put on?
No. Getting braces placed is usually painless. You may feel light pressure as the wire is attached, but most patients describe it as more “strange” than painful.
How long does the soreness last after getting braces?
Mild soreness typically lasts 2 to 5 days. Your mouth adapts quickly, and most patients feel normal by the end of the first week.
Why do braces cause soreness?
Braces gently guide your teeth into better alignment. That pressure can make teeth and gums feel tender for a short time, especially right after adjustments.
Will every adjustment appointment hurt?
You may feel a small amount of pressure after each tightening or wire change. This usually lasts 1 to 2 days and is milder than the initial adjustment.
Do braces hurt more for kids or adults?
Both feel similar levels of soreness, but kids often adjust faster because their tissues adapt more easily. Adults still adjust within a few days.
Can I reduce discomfort from braces?
Yes. Soft foods, orthodontic wax, saltwater rinses, and over-the-counter pain relievers (if approved by your orthodontist) can help ease discomfort.
Do different types of braces hurt differently?
All braces create gentle pressure, so some soreness is normal for each type. Self-ligating braces may feel slightly smoother during adjustments, but comfort levels are similar overall.
Should braces hurt all the time?
No. Braces should not cause ongoing pain. You should only feel temporary pressure after placement or adjustments.
What should I do if the pain feels too strong?
Contact your orthodontic office if discomfort feels sharp, unusual, or lasts longer than a week. A small adjustment may fix the issue.
Can braces cut the inside of my mouth?
Brackets can rub at first, but orthodontic wax protects your cheeks and lips while your mouth adjusts.
Can I eat normally with braces?
Yes. Start with soft foods for a few days, then return to most of your regular diet. Avoid overly sticky, chewy, or crunchy foods that could break brackets.
Is the discomfort worth it?
Absolutely. Temporary soreness leads to long-term results, including a healthier bite, better oral hygiene, and a smile you can feel confident about.
How long does it take to get used to braces?
Most patients adjust within 3 to 5 days. After the first week, braces feel like part of your normal routine.