Adults only (18+)

How to Relieve Pain of Braces

Braces can be a life-changing treatment that leads to a healthier, more confident smile. However, during the process of straightening your teeth, it is not uncommon to experience some discomfort or soreness. This pain is usually temporary but can feel frustrating, especially in the early stages or after adjustments. Knowing what causes brace-related pain and how to ease it can help make the experience far more manageable.

Whether you are wearing traditional metal braces, ceramic options or a clear aligner system, this guide offers practical advice on relieving pain, explains why it occurs, and outlines when to seek further support from your orthodontist or dentist.

Why Braces Cause Pain

Braces work by gradually applying pressure to move teeth into their correct position. This pressure affects not only the teeth but also the surrounding ligaments and bone. As your body adjusts to these movements, it is normal to feel some aching or sensitivity, especially in the first few days after braces are fitted or tightened.

Pain may also come from irritation inside the mouth. Brackets, wires or aligner edges can rub against the cheeks, lips or tongue, causing soreness or even small ulcers. Some people may also feel pressure in their jaw or around the gums. Although this discomfort usually settles quickly, it can vary in intensity from person to person.

What Braces Pain Feels Like

The type of pain linked with braces is usually described as dull and aching. It may affect all or part of the mouth and often worsens when chewing or biting into food. You might feel that your teeth are tender or bruised and notice increased sensitivity to temperature or pressure. In some cases, the ends of wires or brackets may poke or scrape the soft tissues, leading to localised irritation.

Pain can be more noticeable at night or after meals and is often at its worst within the first few days after fitting or adjustment. As your mouth adapts, the discomfort usually decreases, becoming much more manageable over time.

How to Relieve Pain from Braces at Home

There are several effective ways to ease brace pain safely at home. One of the most reliable methods is to use over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. These can reduce inflammation and take the edge off any soreness during the first few days. Always take medication according to the instructions and check with a pharmacist if you are unsure what is suitable for you.

Applying orthodontic wax to any brackets or wires that are rubbing can provide immediate relief. The wax creates a smooth surface that prevents further irritation and allows the tissue in your mouth to heal. Orthodontic wax is easy to use and can be found in most pharmacies or supplied by your dentist.

Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water a few times a day can help reduce inflammation and soothe sore areas. This is particularly useful if you have ulcers or small cuts from brackets. Simply dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, swish gently, and spit it out.

Eating soft foods can also make a big difference. Choose meals that require minimal chewing such as mashed potatoes, yoghurt, pasta, soup or scrambled eggs. Avoid crunchy, hard or sticky foods that can increase pressure on the teeth or risk damaging the braces.

Sucking on an ice cube or using a cold compress on the outside of your cheek may help numb the pain and reduce any swelling. Always wrap ice in a cloth to prevent skin irritation, and do not apply it for more than twenty minutes at a time.

When to Speak to Your Orthodontist

Most pain from braces is mild and resolves within a few days, but you should contact your orthodontist if the discomfort becomes severe or persists beyond a week. If a wire or bracket is broken or sticking out and causing injury, it may need to be adjusted or repaired.

Unusual swelling, bleeding or signs of infection such as pus or fever should always be checked. In some cases, adjustments can be made to relieve unnecessary pressure or reposition parts of the appliance that are causing irritation.

Your orthodontist may also offer silicone guards, special mouth rinses or numbing gels to ease discomfort, especially if the issue is recurring or linked to soft tissue damage.

Emotional Impact and Self-Care

Wearing braces is a positive investment in your health and appearance, but the discomfort can sometimes affect your mood or confidence. It is perfectly normal to feel frustrated or fed up during sore periods, particularly if eating becomes difficult or if the braces make you self-conscious.

Try to be patient and remind yourself that this stage is temporary. As your mouth adjusts, you will likely notice less pain and more ease. Speak to your orthodontic team if the discomfort is affecting your wellbeing. They can often reassure you and offer practical solutions to make things easier.

Practising good oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment. Brushing and flossing regularly can prevent plaque build-up around the brackets, which could otherwise lead to gum inflammation or tooth sensitivity. A clean and healthy mouth will feel better and recover more quickly from any soreness.

Common Myths About Braces Pain

Some people believe that braces must hurt constantly to be effective, but this is not true. While a certain amount of pressure is necessary to move teeth, the pain should not be ongoing or unmanageable. If you are in severe pain, something may need adjusting.

Another myth is that only metal braces cause discomfort. In reality, clear aligners and ceramic braces can also lead to tenderness as they shift the teeth. The sensation is more about the movement than the material used.

It is also a misconception that you cannot eat properly during orthodontic treatment. While certain foods should be avoided, a wide variety of nutritious, soft options are available, and your diet can usually return to normal once the discomfort has eased.

Final Thought

Pain from braces is a common part of the journey towards straighter, healthier teeth. Although it can feel uncomfortable at times, it is usually short-lived and can be managed with simple steps at home. From using pain relief and orthodontic wax to choosing soft meals and speaking to your dental team when needed, there are many ways to ease soreness and stay comfortable. With patience and the right care, most people find the adjustment period becomes much easier, allowing them to focus on the benefits of their new smile.