One of the most common questions we hear at The Orthodontic Centre—especially from concerned parents—is: “Do braces hurt?” Whether your child is gearing up for their first appointment or just had braces put on, it’s totally normal to be a little nervous about what to expect.
The good news? Braces don’t hurt as much as you might think—and most discomfort is temporary and easy to manage. Let’s break it down so you and your child feel confident, prepared, and ready to start this exciting journey to a better smile.
What Does It Feel Like to Get Braces?
We’ll start with the basics: having braces fitted doesn’t hurt. The process usually takes about 60–90 minutes, and while your child might feel some pressure, it’s not painful.
The soreness usually comes afterwards, once the braces start gently guiding the teeth into their new positions. This feeling typically kicks in a few hours after the appointment and lasts for a few days.
How Long Will the Discomfort Last?
Most kids experience mild to moderate soreness for 3–5 days after getting their braces on, and again after each adjustment. It’s a sign that the braces are doing their job!
Common feelings during this period include:
- Achy teeth or jaws
- Tender gums
- Minor irritation on the lips or cheeks (especially during the first week)
But don’t worry—it gets better quickly, and the mouth adjusts within a week. It’s like wearing in a new pair of shoes!
How Can You Help Your Child Manage Braces Discomfort?
At The Orthodontic Centre, we make sure every patient leaves with a comfort kit and a plan. Here are some tried-and-true tips:
- Soft foods: Stick to soups, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and yoghurt for the first few days
- Orthodontic wax: Apply it over any brackets that feel rough or rub on the cheeks
- Over-the-counter pain relief: Paracetamol/Panadol can help ease the initial soreness (as directed)
- Saltwater rinses: Great for soothing irritated spots in the mouth
Most importantly, remind your child that this phase is temporary—and their smile will be worth it!
Do Adjustments Hurt?
Every 6–8 weeks, your child will come in for an adjustment. These appointments are quick, and while your child might feel some pressure or tightness for a day or two afterwards, it’s usually much milder than when the braces were first applied.
We use gentle, modern techniques at The Orthodontic Centre to ensure comfort throughout treatment.
What About Clear Aligners? Are They More Comfortable?
For kids and teens who are good candidates, clear aligners (like Invisalign®) can offer an even more comfortable experience. Since there are no brackets or wires, there’s less rubbing and irritation.
However, aligners still move teeth—so some tightness or pressure is totally normal, especially with new trays.
We’ll help you decide if traditional braces or clear aligners are the right fit for your child.
We use gentle, modern techniques at The Orthodontic Centre to ensure comfort throughout treatment.
The Bottom Line: Braces May Be Uncomfortable—But They Shouldn’t Be Extremely Painful
A little soreness? Totally normal. If you or your child are really struggling, give us a call—we’re always here to help.
At The Orthodontic Centre, we pride ourselves on making orthodontic treatment as smooth and stress-free as possible. We’ll guide your child every step of the way and provide support and reassurance whenever it’s needed.
