Braces can give you a great smile, but the discomfort that comes with them is a common concern.
While the pain is usually temporary, understanding its causes and how long it lasts can help you manage it better.
In this guide, we’ll explain why braces hurt, how long the discomfort lasts, and tips to ease the pain during the process.
Brace pain usually lasts for 1-3 days after getting braces or adjustments. The soreness fades as your mouth adjusts, but over-the-counter pain relief can help ease the discomfort.
Braces apply continuous pressure to your teeth in order to gradually shift them into the desired position.
This pressure can cause your teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues to become sore, especially after the braces are first put on or after each adjustment.
The pain is a sign that the treatment is working, as it means your teeth are starting to move.
Initial Fitting of Braces
When you first get braces, the wires and brackets are attached to your teeth, and this often causes some immediate discomfort.
Your mouth is adjusting to the new appliances, and your teeth are being pushed into new positions.
Pain Timeline: The pain from the initial fitting usually peaks within the first 24 to 48 hours, and most people experience mild to moderate soreness during this time.
Adjustments and Tightening
Throughout your orthodontic treatment, your braces will need periodic adjustments to keep the pressure on your teeth.
These adjustments involve tightening the wires or adding additional appliances. This process often causes a brief period of discomfort as your teeth and gums adapt to the changes.
Pain Timeline: Pain from adjustments typically lasts for a few hours to a couple of days, and the intensity of the discomfort may vary depending on the individual and how much adjustment is required.
Teeth Movement
As your teeth begin to move, your body needs time to adjust.
This movement puts pressure on the roots of your teeth and the surrounding tissues, which can cause discomfort and even slight bruising in some cases.
Pain Timeline: The pain related to the actual shifting of the teeth can be gradual and may continue intermittently throughout the treatment process.
However, it tends to subside as the teeth become accustomed to their new positions.
The length of time that pain lasts after getting braces or after adjustments varies from person to person.
While some individuals may experience only mild discomfort, others may find the pain more bothersome. Here’s what you can expect:
Pain After Initial Braces Fitting
After getting your braces on, you may experience some soreness in your teeth and gums as your mouth adjusts to the new appliances. This is normal and usually lasts for a few days.
Timeline: Most people experience pain for 2 to 3 days after getting braces fitted. The discomfort will usually subside as your teeth start to move and get used to the pressure.
Pain After Each Adjustment
Each time your orthodontist adjusts your braces, you may experience some discomfort.
This is because the tension on the braces is increased, which can cause the teeth to move further into place. For most people, this pain lasts only a few days.
Timeline: The pain from adjustments usually lasts between 1 to 3 days. This is when the braces are putting the most pressure on your teeth to encourage movement.
Ongoing Soreness
Throughout the course of your treatment, you might feel some mild soreness as your teeth continue to shift.
This may not be as intense as the pain after an initial fitting or adjustment, but it can still cause discomfort.
Timeline: Any ongoing soreness should decrease significantly as the treatment progresses, and the longer you have the braces on, the less likely you are to feel pain with each adjustment.
Most people experience pain for 2 to 3 days after getting braces, with discomfort typically subsiding within a week. The pain is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
It’s best to avoid hard, chewy, or sticky foods right after getting braces, as they can aggravate soreness. Stick to soft foods for the first few days until the discomfort decreases.
The pain from adjustments tends to be temporary and usually lasts for 1 to 3 days. The discomfort may lessen over time as your teeth adjust to the braces and become accustomed to the pressure.
Brace pain is a normal part of the orthodontic process, but it doesn’t last forever.
The discomfort typically lasts for a few days after the initial fitting or each adjustment, and with the right care, it’s manageable.
Understanding the causes of the pain and knowing how to ease it can help you feel more comfortable during your treatment.
Remember, the pain is a sign that your teeth are moving and that your treatment is working.
By following the tips provided, you can minimize the discomfort and keep your focus on achieving that beautiful, straight smile.
Class One Orthodontics is where smiles are masterfully crafted. As Worcester and Newton's premier orthodontic experts, we pride ourselves on providing unparalleled care with a personal touch. Equipped with cutting-edge technology and a dedication to our community, we're not just creating beautiful smiles – we're shaping the future of oral health with a warmth and expertise that's unmatched.
