Braces are orthodontic devices used to align and straighten teeth, fix bite issues, and improve overall oral health. They’re a transformative tool that can give you a healthy, confident smile—but like any big change, they require some adjustment. If you’re picturing medieval torture devices, don’t worry! Modern braces are far more advanced and designed to be as comfortable and effective as possible. However, it’s natural to wonder about the sensations you might experience during treatment.

Do braces hurt when they’re put on?

Getting braces put on isn’t painful. It is a seamless and painless process that happens at the dentist’s office. The process involves a series of steps that take place in about an hour or two, depending on the type of braces and other complexities involved. These steps are:

• Cleaning and preparing your teeth.
• Applying a special adhesive to attach brackets to your teeth.
• Connecting the brackets with archwires that will guide the movement of your teeth.
• While the procedure itself is painless, you might feel a little strange afterwards. Think of it as a new pair of shoes—it takes a bit of time to get used to them.

Do braces hurt after they’re installed?

After installation, braces may tend to be a little unconformable. After your braces are placed, the wires and brackets start applying gentle pressure to shift your teeth into their new positions. This pressure can lead to:

• Soreness in the teeth and gums – It’s common to feel a dull ache for a few days after the braces are tightened. This is a sign that the treatment is working!
• Tenderness in your mouth – The brackets or wires might irritate the inside of your cheeks and lips until your mouth adjusts to them.

Are post-treatment checkups painful?

Braces require periodic adjustments, usually every 4–8 weeks. During these appointments, the dentist tightens the wires or changes elastics to maintain steady pressure on your teeth. These adjustments can cause slight discomfort for a day or two, but it’s usually less intense than when the braces were first applied.

What can you do to ease the discomfort?

The dentists recommend some precautions which can help you handle the pain and discomfort. Some of these tips include:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers, especially if the teeth are sore and painful.
• Eating soft foods, especially for the first few days after getting or adjusting to braces.
• If the brackets and wires are irritating your cheeks or lips, applying orthodontic wax on the affected areas helps relieve the pain.
• Rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater can soothe irritated tissues and keep your mouth clean.
• Drinking plenty of water can help reduce inflammation and keep your mouth comfortable.

Do braces hurt all the time?

No, they don’t! While the first few days after getting braces or adjustments can be a bit uncomfortable, most people quickly adapt. After the initial adjustment period, many wearers forget they even have braces. Your teeth and gums gradually get used to the pressure, and you’ll notice that the discomfort lessens significantly as time goes on.

Are there pain-free alternatives?

For those looking to avoid the potential discomfort of traditional braces, options like clear aligners (e.g., Invisalign) are worth considering. These aligners use custom-fitted trays to move teeth without brackets or wires. While you may still feel pressure, aligners tend to be gentler and less likely to irritate your cheeks and lips.

Are braces worth the pain and discomfort?

Yes, they are. While braces may cause temporary discomfort, the long-term benefits far outweigh the short-term challenges. By the end of your treatment, you’ll have a beautiful, healthy smile that can last a lifetime. Pain associated with braces is temporary, manageable, and a sign that your teeth are transforming. With the right mindset and a few helpful tips, you’ll sail through the process.

Final thoughts

Don’t let the fear of pain be in your way of attaining the perfect smile and appearance. If you’re worried about pain, rest assured that modern orthodontic treatment is designed to be as comfortable as possible. Our dentists at Nairobi Ste

rling Dental Clinic will work with you to ensure the best experience, so don’t hesitate to ask questions or share concerns. Visit our clinic at the Park Suites Building in Parklands, Nairobi for a life-changing engagement with our dentist and a chance to get your braces. You can also contact us for enquiries on braces or other of our services. At Nairobi Sterling Dental Clinic, we make your Smile Bright.