Typical Discomfort You Might Experience When Getting Braces

Getting braces is a big step toward achieving a straighter, healthier smile—but let’s be real: it’s not all smooth sailing from day one. While the end results are worth it, it’s totally normal to experience some discomfort along the way.

If you’re gearing up for braces (or your child is), here’s a breakdown of the typical types of discomfort you might experience—and what you can do about them.

1. Soreness After Initial Placement

When your braces first go on, your teeth, gums, and even jaw may feel sore for a few days. This happens because the braces are beginning to gently move your teeth into alignment, and your mouth isn’t used to the pressure.

🦷 What it feels like: A dull, achy feeling in your teeth that might make chewing uncomfortable

🛠️ What helps: Soft foods (soups, smoothies, mashed potatoes), cold drinks, and over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (if approved by your orthodontist)

2. Irritation on the Inside of Your Mouth

Brackets and wires can rub against the inside of your cheeks and lips, causing tenderness or even small sores, especially in the beginning.

😬 What it feels like: A scratchy or raw feeling where the braces meet soft tissue

🛠️ What helps: Orthodontic wax! Just a small piece over the bracket can prevent friction. Rinsing with warm salt water can also soothe irritated spots.

3. Tightness After Adjustments

Every time you get your braces tightened (typically every 4–8 weeks), you may feel some renewed pressure and tenderness as your teeth shift further.

🔧 What it feels like: Similar to the first soreness, but usually milder and shorter-lived

🛠️ What helps: Stick to soft foods the day of your adjustment, and give yourself a little rest time if your mouth feels sensitive.

4. Jaw Discomfort or Headaches

Some people feel jaw tension or even mild headaches as their bite begins to change. This is more likely if you’re also wearing rubber bands or other appliances that affect jaw positioning.

💭 What it feels like: A dull ache in the jaw or tension-related headache

🛠️ What helps: Gentle jaw stretches, hydration, and relaxation techniques. If it persists, your orthodontist may have tips or adjustments to ease the tension.

5. Difficulty Eating and Speaking (At First)

In the early days, it might feel strange to chew or pronounce certain words. Your mouth is adapting to a new layout, and that takes a little time.

🍽️ What it feels like: Awkwardness or a “full” feeling in your mouth

🛠️ What helps: Patience and practice! Cut food into small pieces, and give your mouth a few days to adjust before diving into tougher meals.

6. Occasional Wire Pokes or Bracket Issues

Sometimes a wire can shift and poke the back of your cheek or a bracket might loosen. While not super common, it can definitely cause temporary discomfort.

🧷 What it feels like: A sharp poke or pinch

🛠️ What helps: Orthodontic wax, a cotton swab to nudge the wire into place, or a quick call to your orthodontist if it's really bothering you.

When to Be Concerned

Most discomfort is completely normal and fades within a few days. But if you notice:

• Severe pain that doesn’t go away

• Bleeding that won’t stop

• Broken brackets or wires

👉 Call your orthodontist. They’re there to help and can make adjustments to keep things on track—and more comfortable.

In Summary

Braces aren’t exactly painless, but the discomfort is usually short-lived and totally manageable. A little soreness here and there is just your teeth working hard to become their best selves. 

With some soft foods, orthodontic wax, and a bit of patience, you’ll get through the adjustment phase in no time—and be one step closer to the smile you’ve always wanted.