Braces Causing Sore Teeth? What’s Normal and What’s Not

If you’ve recently started orthodontic treatment or had an adjustment, you might be wondering: “Is it normal for my teeth to feel sore with braces?”

Experiencing some soreness is completely normal, especially in the early stages of treatment or after your orthodontist tightens your braces. It’s a sign that your teeth are shifting, which is exactly what braces are designed to do.

While a little soreness is part of the process, ongoing pain or certain types of discomfort may be a sign that something isn’t quite right. Let’s look at the difference between normal soreness and something that needs attention, and how to manage discomfort effectively.

Common Causes Of Soreness From Braces

Braces puts gentle and continuous pressure to guide your teeth into better alignment. This pressure affects not only your teeth, but also the surrounding bone and tissue—which is why soreness is a normal part of the process.

Here are a few common reasons your teeth might feel sore during treatment:

1. Initial Placement

When you first get braces, your mouth is adjusting to something completely new. It’s the brackets, wires, and other components that may irritate your cheeks and gums. Most patients experience soreness for the first few days after placement.

2. Regular Adjustments

As your orthodontist makes periodic adjustments to your braces, you may feel a new wave of discomfort. This is normal and typically lasts a few days. These adjustments are what keep your treatment moving forward.

3. Tooth Movement

As your teeth begin to shift into their new positions, the surrounding bone is also remodeling. This natural process can cause tenderness or an aching feeling, especially when biting or chewing.

4. Tight Wires or New Appliances

If you’ve recently had a wire change, power chains added, or a new appliance like rubber bands introduced, it can put extra pressure on certain areas. This can lead to more noticeable soreness for a short period.

How Do You Know If Braces Pain Is Not Normal?

While some soreness is a normal and expected part of wearing braces, there are times when the discomfort may be a sign that something isn’t quite right.

Pain from braces may feel not normal if you experience:

1. Pain That Doesn’t Improve After a Few Days

2. Sharp or Shooting Pain

3. Sores or Cuts That Don’t Heal

4. Pain When Not Eating or Moving Your Mouth

5. Loose or Damaged Braces Components

How to Soothe Sore Teeth from Braces

If you’re feeling discomfort after an adjustment or during the early days of treatment, here are some effective ways to get relief:

1. Stick to Soft Foods

Stick to mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, scrambled eggs, or soup and avoid crunchy, chewy, or hard foods until the discomfort eases.

2. Rinse With Warm Salt Water

A warm salt water rinse can help soothe irritated gums and soft tissues inside your mouth. Mix a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and swish gently for about 30 seconds, a few times a day.

3. Use Orthodontic Wax

If brackets or wires are rubbing against the inside of your lips or cheeks, place orthodontic wax over the area that’s causing irritation. This creates a smooth surface and gives your mouth time to heal.

4. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers (If Needed)

If the soreness is more intense, you can use an over-the-counter pain reliever following your orthodontist’s guide.

5. Use a Cold Compress

Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can help reduce inflammation and numb the area. This is especially helpful within the first 24 hours after an adjustment.

6. Brush and Floss Gently

Even when your mouth feels sore, it’s important to keep up with your oral hygiene. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be gentle around sensitive areas. Keeping your mouth clean helps speed up healing and prevents additional issues.

Start Your Braces Journey In Ahwatukee Phoenix

Woolaver Orthodontics helped countless patients in Ahwatukee Phoenix who are looking for braces, feel more confident and comfortable throughout their braces treatment. From managing normal soreness to addressing anything unusual, our experienced team is here to support you every step of the way.

Schedule your consultation today—we can’t wait to help you get started.