What does it feel like to get braces on? Do braces hurt?

Getting braces on is usually easier than most patients expect. The appointment is not typically painful. There are usually no needles, no drilling, and no freezing required for routine braces placement. Most patients feel pressure, stretching of the lips and cheeks, and the strange sensation of having something new on the teeth. At Orthodontics on Queen, patients can watch movies or shows on VR headsets while getting braces on!

During the appointment, the teeth are cleaned and dried. A special bonding material is used to attach the brackets to the teeth. Once the brackets are in place, the first wire is added. The orthodontic team then explains how to brush, what foods to avoid, how to use wax, and what to expect over the next few days.

The most common feeling during the appointment is awareness and pressure, not pain. The mouth may feel dry while the teeth are being prepared. A cheek retractor may be used to keep the lips and cheeks away from the teeth. This can feel awkward, but it should not be painful.

After a few hours, the teeth may begin to feel sore. This soreness usually peaks during the first few days and then gradually improves. Patients often describe it as pressure, tenderness, or aching, especially when biting into food.

Soft foods are helpful at first. Good options include pasta, eggs, smoothies, yogurt, soup, rice, soft sandwiches, oatmeal, and cooked vegetables.

The cheeks and lips may also need time to adapt to the brackets. Orthodontic wax can be placed over any area that feels rough or irritating. Learn more about what to do if something feels wrong.

Braces should not cause severe pain. Significant pain, swelling, trauma, or a wire that is badly poking should be addressed by the orthodontic office.

At Orthodontics on Queen in The Beaches, Toronto, the first braces appointment is designed to be calm, clear, and supportive. Some soreness is normal. Severe pain is not expected. Most patients adapt quickly once the teeth and cheeks get used to the braces.