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Do Teeth Braces Hurt? A Complete Guide on What to Expect
Many people considering teeth braces in Singapore often ask, “Do braces hurt?” The short answer is that dental braces do not cause sharp pain, but they can lead to temporary discomfort, especially in the first few days after placement or adjustments. This sensation is part of the process as teeth braces gradually shift the teeth into proper alignment.
At EZ Dental Care, a dental clinic in Singapore, we provide orthodontic treatment at both our Geylang Bahru dental clinic and Bedok North dental clinic. Here’s what you need to know about braces discomfort, how long it lasts, and how to manage it effectively.
Does It Hurt to Get Braces Put On?
The process of getting dental braces is generally painless. The dentist follows these steps:
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Teeth Cleaning – The teeth are cleaned and dried to prepare for bonding.
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Applying Bonding Material – A special adhesive is used to attach brackets to each tooth.
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Placing the Brackets – The dentist secures small metal or ceramic brackets onto the teeth.
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Inserting the Archwire – A thin wire is threaded through the brackets and held in place with small elastic bands.
Since this process does not involve drilling or injections, most people feel little to no pain. Some may experience mild pressure, but overall, the procedure is comfortable.
When Do Teeth Braces Start to Hurt?
After teeth braces are placed, discomfort typically begins three to four hours later. The sensation occurs because the archwire starts applying pressure to shift the teeth.
Common Sensations in the First Few Days:
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A dull ache in the teeth and gums
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Mild soreness when biting or chewing
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A feeling of tightness around the teeth
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Irritation on the inner cheeks and lips from the brackets and wires
This discomfort usually peaks within the first 48 hours and starts to fade within a week.
Why Do Braces Cause Discomfort?
Braces work by exerting constant, gentle pressure on the teeth, gradually moving them into the correct position. This movement causes an inflammatory response in the surrounding tissues, leading to mild soreness.
The process is similar to muscle soreness after exercise—just as muscles adapt to workouts, the teeth and gums adapt to braces over time.
How Long Does Dental Braces Pain Last?
Pain and discomfort vary from person to person, but here is a general timeline:
Day 1-2: Initial Soreness
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Pain starts a few hours after getting dental braces.
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Eating solid foods may be uncomfortable.
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Over-the-counter pain relievers can help.
Days 3-7: Adjusting to Teeth Braces
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The worst discomfort usually subsides.
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The mouth adapts to the brackets and wires.
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Soft foods are still recommended.
Week 2: Minimal Discomfort
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Lingering soreness is mild.
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Eating normal foods becomes easier.
Week 3: Teeth Braces Feel Normal
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Most people feel little to no discomfort.
Braces require periodic adjustments, typically every four to six weeks. After each adjustment, a “dentist near me” will tighten the wires or replace elastic bands, causing temporary soreness that lasts one to two days. However, this discomfort is usually milder than the initial placement.
How to Reduce Dental Braces Pain
If discomfort occurs after getting teeth braces, several methods can help:
1. Use Orthodontic Wax
Brackets and wires can cause irritation. Applying orthodontic wax to rough edges can reduce friction and prevent sores.
2. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Paracetamol or ibuprofen can help alleviate soreness. Taking medication before a braces appointment may prevent discomfort before it starts.
3. Rinse with Warm Salt Water
A saltwater rinse can soothe irritated gums and reduce inflammation.
4. Eat Soft Foods
For the first few days, avoid hard or crunchy foods. Recommended options include:
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Mashed potatoes
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Scrambled eggs
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Yogurt
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Smoothies
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Soups
5. Apply Cold Compresses
A cold pack applied to the jaw for 10-15 minutes can help reduce swelling and numb the area.
Do Teeth Braces Hurt After Adjustments?
Braces need periodic adjustments to continue shifting the teeth. During these visits, a “dentist near me” will:
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Tighten or replace the archwire
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Swap out elastic bands
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Make necessary modifications to encourage tooth movement
After an adjustment, mild soreness may last one to two days, but it is usually less intense than when braces were first applied.
Do Bottom Braces Hurt More Than Top Braces?
Some individuals report more discomfort with bottom braces because:
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The tongue frequently touches the lower brackets.
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The jaw moves more when eating, increasing pressure on the lower teeth.
However, this discomfort is temporary and usually decreases as the mouth adjusts.
How Painful Are Braces on a Scale of 1-10?
Pain levels vary, but on average:
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Getting braces put on: 0 to 1 (no pain, just mild pressure).
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First two to three days: 3 to 5 (mild aching and tenderness).
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After adjustments: 2 to 3 (temporary soreness).
Braces do not usually cause sharp pain—just a dull, aching sensation that fades over time.
How to Prevent Braces Pain
To reduce discomfort, consider these steps:
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Take paracetamol or ibuprofen before a braces appointment.
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Eat soft foods after getting braces or an adjustment.
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Stay hydrated to promote healing and reduce inflammation.
If discomfort persists, consulting a “dentist near me” may help determine additional options for relief.
What to Do If Braces Cause Discomfort
Braces discomfort is temporary and manageable. If pain persists beyond a week, visiting a dental clinic in Singapore may be beneficial.
At EZ Dental Care, our team will provide personalized guidance to help you manage any discomfort and ensure a smooth orthodontic journey. Scheduling a consultation can provide more information about teeth braces in Singapore and how to manage any discomfort.
Contact us today to book an appointment!
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