Getting braces is a big step toward a straighter, healthier smile—but let’s be honest: no one looks forward to the occasional discomfort, especially at the beginning. The good news? Most of the discomfort is temporary and manageable. Whether you’re just starting treatment or you’re weeks into the process, knowing what to expect and how to find fast relief can make all the difference.
At Kelowna Orthodontics, we’re here to guide you through every stage of the journey. In this blog, we’ll break down what kind of braces discomfort is normal, what might signal a problem, and how to get quick, effective relief.
Why Braces Can Cause Discomfort
Braces work by applying gentle but consistent pressure to move your teeth into better alignment. While this process is highly effective, it naturally causes some discomfort as your teeth, gums, and jaw adjust.
Common Causes of Discomfort
- Tightening or adjustment appointments
- Initial placement of brackets and wires
- Rubbing from brackets or wires against the cheeks or lips
- Tooth movement triggering sensitivity in the roots or nerves
The pain typically isn’t sharp or intense—it feels more like pressure, soreness, or aching.
What’s Normal When It Comes to Discomfort?
1. Soreness After Initial Placement
When braces are first applied, most people feel discomfort within a few hours. The soreness usually peaks around day two or three, then begins to fade. Your teeth may feel tender when you bite or chew, and your gums might feel mildly inflamed.
Duration: 3–7 days
Relief Tips: Soft foods, cold water, over-the-counter pain relievers
2. Mild Pain After Adjustments
Every time your orthodontist adjusts your braces (tightens wires or changes bands), the pressure is renewed. Expect soreness for 1–3 days following each adjustment. This is completely normal and a sign your treatment is working.
Duration: 1–3 days
Relief Tips: Ice packs, soft foods, warm saltwater rinses
3. Irritation Inside the Mouth
Brackets and wires can rub against the inside of your cheeks and lips, especially early on. This can cause tiny cuts or ulcers, but your mouth will toughen up over time. Orthodontic wax can help cushion these sharp edges.
Duration: Occasional throughout treatment
Relief Tips: Wax, saltwater rinses, mouth gels like Orajel
4. Jaw or Head Soreness
Sometimes, your jaw may feel sore or tired due to bite changes or shifting pressure. Headaches may occur in the early stages but typically fade with time.
Duration: Temporary, occasional
Relief Tips: Cold compress, stretching exercises, gentle jaw massage
What’s Not Normal: When to Call Your Orthodontist
Discomfort from braces should be manageable. If you’re experiencing sharp, persistent, or increasing pain, contact your orthodontist right away.
Warning Signs Include:
- Severe, stabbing tooth pain
- Loose or broken brackets or wires poking into gums
- Swelling or signs of infection
- Sores that don’t heal after a week
- Trouble eating, talking, or sleeping due to pain
At Kelowna Orthodontics, we always encourage patients to reach out if something feels off. It’s better to check in than to suffer in silence.
How to Relieve Discomfort
Let’s talk solutions. Here are tried-and-true ways to ease the ache and get back to feeling like yourself.
1. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
Medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) are safe and effective when used as directed. Take a dose before your adjustment appointment if you expect soreness to follow.
Tip: Avoid aspirin in younger children unless approved by your orthodontist.
2. Orthodontic Wax
Apply wax to brackets or wires that are irritating the inside of your mouth. Just pinch off a small piece, roll it into a ball, and press it onto the problem area. Be sure to remove wax before eating and replace as needed.
3. Saltwater Rinses
Rinsing with warm salt water can reduce swelling, promote healing, and ease minor pain.
How to use:
- Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water
- Rinse for 30 seconds, then spit
- Repeat 2–3 times a day
4. Cold Foods and Drinks
Cold temperatures can help numb sore spots. Try:
- Ice water
- Frozen yogurt or smoothies
- Cold applesauce or chilled soup
Avoid chewing on ice—it can damage your brackets.
5. Soft Foods Are Your Friend
Eating hard, crunchy, or chewy foods during a flare-up can make things worse. Stick with soft, gentle foods like:
- Mashed potatoes
- Scrambled eggs
- Oatmeal
- Pasta
- Soup
- Smoothies
Gradually return to your normal diet as the pain subsides.
6. Orthodontic Silicone or Gel Pads
These products provide extra protection for your mouth. They work similarly to wax but may offer longer-lasting relief for specific trouble spots.
Long-Term Comfort Tips for Bracelet Wearers
Pain from braces is usually short-term, but staying consistent with care helps minimize discomfort throughout your treatment.
Do:
- Brush and floss daily to avoid inflammation
- Keep your adjustment appointments on schedule
- Use wax early when irritation begins
- Call your orthodontist if anything breaks
Don’t:
- Chew hard or sticky foods
- Skip meals (hunger can make discomfort worse)
- Ignore lingering or worsening pain
How Long Will Braces Hurt Overall?
Here’s the truth: braces don’t hurt all the time. Most patients only feel mild soreness for a few days after getting them on and after adjustments. As your mouth adjusts, discomfort becomes less frequent and more manageable.
Over time, many people forget they’re even wearing braces—until it’s time to celebrate that brand-new smile.
Braces in Kelowna? You’re in Good Hands
If you’re getting braces in Kelowna or searching for a trusted orthodontist in Kelowna, Kelowna Orthodontics offers expert care with a focus on comfort and long-term success. From your first visit to your final adjustment, we make sure your treatment is smooth and your pain is minimal.
Final Thoughts
Some soreness is a normal part of orthodontic treatment—it means your teeth are moving in the right direction. But you don’t have to tough it out. There are simple, effective ways to manage discomfort and get back to your day.
Whether you’re at the beginning of your braces journey or just had an adjustment, remember: the discomfort is temporary, but your new smile will last a lifetime.
