The short answer? Braces don’t hurt when they’re fitted, but there may be some mild discomfort in the days that follow. The good news is, it’s temporary – and there are lots of simple ways to manage it.

At Splash Orthodontics, we’ll walk you through every step of the journey so nothing comes as a surprise. Here’s what to expect, and how to keep things comfortable along the way.

Do braces hurt when they’re fitted?

Not at all. Having braces fitted is completely painless. Your orthodontist will gently clean and prepare the teeth, then attach the brackets and wires. The whole process usually takes around 30–60 minutes, and there’s no need for any injections or anaesthetic. Most patients leave their fitting appointment feeling absolutely fine.

What about afterwards?

It’s normal to feel a bit of pressure or soreness a few hours after your braces are fitted – this is just your teeth adjusting to the gentle force of the wires. The discomfort is usually most noticeable for the first 2–3 days and tends to ease off within a week.

The same can happen after each adjustment appointment, as your braces are gradually tightened to guide your teeth into position.

What does it feel like?

Most people describe the feeling as a dull ache, a bit like a bruised sensation in the teeth or gums. It might feel slightly uncomfortable when chewing, especially in the first few days. The inside of the lips and cheeks might also take a little time to get used to the brackets – but your mouth will adapt quickly, and any irritation usually disappears within a week or two.

How you can manage any discomfort

If your mouth is feeling a bit sore, here are some tips to help:

• Stick to soft foods for the first few days – think mashed potato, soup, pasta, smoothies or yoghurt
• Use orthodontic wax to cover any brackets that are rubbing
• Rinse with warm salt water to soothe the gums and ease irritation
• Take over-the-counter pain relief like paracetamol or ibuprofen (if appropriate)
• Chew gently – it may help teeth settle more quickly than avoiding chewing altogether

And remember – our team is always here if anything feels out of the ordinary.

What about aligners? Do they hurt too?

If you opt for clear aligners like Invisalign or Angel Aligners, you might still experience a little pressure when switching to a new set – especially in the first 24 hours. Like braces, this sensation is completely normal and usually short-lived.

Aligners are smooth and custom-made to fit snugly, so they tend to cause less irritation to the cheeks and lips than fixed braces.

Reassurance every step of the way

It’s natural to worry about braces being painful, but in reality, most people experience only mild and short-lived discomfort. Most patients adjust quickly and carry on as normal within a few days – and by the time treatment is underway, they barely notice their braces at all.

At Splash Orthodontics, we’re here to make the journey as comfortable and stress-free as possible. From brace-friendly snack ideas to personalised care plans, we’re with you every step of the way.

Still have questions?

Feel free to get in touch with our friendly team or book a consultation online. Whether you’re considering NHS braces or exploring private options, we’re here to help make your orthodontic experience a positive one.