Getting braces is a big milestone, and it’s normal to have plenty of questions before getting started. From understanding the process to knowing what those first few days feel like, having the right expectations can make the experience much less stressful. The good news is that modern braces are more comfortable and efficient than ever before.

Braces specialist, Dr. Albert from Newtown Orthodontics, covers everything teens need to know about getting braces, including what the first appointment is like, how your mouth may feel afterward, tips for adjusting quickly, and even common concerns like does it hurt to get braces put on. Watch to get ready for your smile upgrade!

Braces and Pain: What It Really Feels Like

Let’s address the question everyone asks first: Does it hurt to get braces put on? “No. It doesn’t hurt to get braces on,” according to Dr. Albert. The actual process of placing braces on your teeth does not cause any pain. During the appointment, small brackets are carefully attached to the surface of each tooth and connected with a wire that helps guide your teeth into their ideal position over time. Because the braces are simply bonded onto the teeth, there are:

• No needles
• No drilling
• No numbing required
• No anesthesia

This means you stay awake and comfortable the entire time. Many patients are surprised by how simple the appointment feels.

When your braces are first put on, you’ll mostly feel pressure, not pain. In fact, most teens report a 0 out of 10 on the braces pain scale while they’re in the chair. Later that day or the next morning, you might notice some mild soreness as your teeth start to shift. Dr. Albert mentions that “for the first few days after you get the braces on, you may feel a little bit sore, which is normal.” The discomfort usually reaches only about a 2 or 3 out of 10 on the pain scale.

Most teens describe the discomfort as a dull soreness or pressure, not a sharp shooting pain. Dr. Albert explains that “the soreness is similar to the way your muscles feel after a workout.” This mild soreness is temporary and typically fades within a few days as your mouth adjusts to the braces. Your teeth gradually adjust as the treatment continues. If the soreness is too bothersome, there are a few simple solutions to stop the pain from braces:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol or Advil
• Cold foods like smoothies, yogurt, or ice cream
• Cold water
• Soft foods for the first few days

Lifestyle Changes With Braces

Braces don’t prevent you from living your normal life. Most teens continue playing sports, participating in activities, and eating many of the foods they enjoy. However, a few habits do need to change.

Foods To Avoid: Certain foods can damage braces or get stuck in the brackets and wires. It is best to avoid:

• Gum
• Sticky candy like caramel or taffy
• Hard candy
• Popcorn kernels
• Ice
• Hard pretzels
• Nuts
• Very crunchy chips

Soft foods, cut-up fruits, pasta, rice, and sandwiches are usually great options.

Extra Detailed Brushing: Braces make it even more important to stay on top of your oral hygiene. With brackets and wires, it’s easier for food to get stuck. Brushing and flossing will take a bit more time and care. The good news? You won’t be figuring it out alone. Patients at Newtown Orthodontics get a special orthodontic toolkit to help keep their teeth clean, which typically includes:

• Specialized floss threaders
• Interdental brushes
• Orthodontic wax
• Tips for brushing around brackets

Some people also like using a water flosser to help blast away food particles. Once you get the hang of these tools and techniques, keeping your smile clean with braces becomes second nature. Your future self will thank you for it!

Choosing the Color of Your Braces

One of the most fun parts of braces for teens is choosing the colors. The elastic bands that hold the wire in place come in a wide variety of colors, and they can be changed at each orthodontic visit. That means you’re not stuck with one color for the entire treatment.

Many patients choose colors based on:

• School colors
• Favorite sports teams
• Holidays
• Seasonal themes

Braces vs. Clear Aligners

Today, teens have more orthodontic treatment options than ever. Traditional braces are still one of the most reliable ways to correct complex alignment issues. However, clear aligners can be an option for certain patients. Your orthodontist will help determine which option is best for you, based upon a few factors such as tooth alignment, bite position, treatment goals, and lifestyle preferences.

Free Orthodontic Consultation

​For teens and parents considering orthodontic treatment, the best first step is simply learning more. During a complimentary 45-minute orthodontic consultation at Newtown Dentistry, orthodontist Dr. Albert will take the time to explain the process, take X-rays, and address your questions. This visit is a great way to get clear answers and personalized guidance. Schedule your free consultation today.