Here at DiMarzio Orthodontics, we know that plenty of people get a little nervous when it comes time to get their braces. It makes sense! But did you know that today’s braces are less noticeable, easier to care for, and more comfortable than ever before? It’s true! Of course it is true that there can be some discomfort that comes along with treatment, at least at first, so we’ve asked Dr. DiMarzio and Dr. Marczak to come up with some tips and tricks for dealing with it when it comes up. Check it out!
Why Braces Cause Discomfort at First
When metal or clear braces are first placed, your teeth, gums, and supporting tissues begin responding to a kind of pressure they’ve never experienced before. This pressure is gentle but constant, and it signals your tooth roots and surrounding ligaments to start remodeling so your teeth can move into their new positions. That biological process is completely normal, but it can make your teeth feel tender or “bruised” for a few days. Many patients describe the feeling as a deep ache or a dull pressure that comes and goes. At DiMarzio Orthodontics, Dr DiMarzio and Dr Marczak remind patients that this initial adjustment period is short-lived, and most people notice a significant improvement within the first week as the tissues adapt.
This early discomfort isn’t a sign that something is wrong. It simply means your treatment is beginning to work. The same pattern can appear after routine tightening appointments because the braces are reactivating the pressure that guides your teeth into their new positions. With the right strategies, though, this phase is manageable, predictable, and temporary, and it gives your smile the solid foundation it needs for long-term success.
How Tooth Movement Works
Tooth movement happens because the bone and ligaments surrounding each tooth respond to pressure by reshaping themselves. On one side of the tooth, the bone softens slightly so the tooth can begin shifting, while the other side gradually rebuilds to support the new position. This process takes time and can create sensitivity, especially during the first few days. Understanding what is happening behind the scenes can make the experience feel less stressful, because you know each bit of soreness is part of a healthy biological response.
Mild tenderness when you bite into food, light pressure when you chew, or a dull ache as you settle into bed are all normal. These sensations usually fade as your tissues adapt and as your braces begin guiding your teeth smoothly along their intended path.
When Discomfort Is a Sign to Call the Office
While most soreness is expected, some things require professional attention. Call DiMarzio Orthodontics if you notice any of the following:
- A wire that is poking your cheek or gums
- A bracket that feels loose or has popped off
- Swelling that worsens instead of improving
- Pain that is sharp, persistent, or unusual
These issues are quick and easy to fix, and addressing them early prevents irritation from turning into a bigger problem. Your comfort is a central part of your treatment, and the team is always ready to help.
Simple Ways to Relieve Braces Soreness at Home
Managing braces discomfort is often about small habits that make your mouth feel supported while everything adjusts. Most soreness improves with simple, at-home strategies that reduce pressure on sensitive areas and soothe irritated spots. These approaches are safe, effective, and recommended for nearly every patient during the first days after bonding or after adjustment appointments. With a little preparation, you can give your mouth the time it needs to adapt while staying as comfortable as possible.
Use Orthodontic Wax
Orthodontic wax is one of the easiest ways to reduce irritation. When a bracket or wire feels rough, placing a small piece of wax over the area creates a smooth surface and gives the inside of your cheeks time to adjust. This is especially helpful during the first week, when your mouth is still getting used to the sensation of having appliances. The team at DiMarzio Orthodontics gives every patient wax and shows you exactly how to apply it so you can use it confidently at home.
Cold Foods and Drinks
Cold temperatures help reduce inflammation and soothe sore tissues, which is why cold foods and drinks can make a noticeable difference. Ice water, smoothies, chilled yoghurt, soft fruit bowls, and even cold compresses applied to the outside of the cheek can help calm the ache. These options also encourage hydration, which keeps your mouth feeling fresher and reduces dryness during the adjustment period.
Many patients find that starting the day with something cold makes the soreness more manageable throughout the morning.
Soft Foods for the First Few Days
Eating softer foods helps reduce pressure on sensitive teeth. During the first few days of braces or after adjustments, meals like mashed potatoes, soups, scrambled eggs, pasta, oatmeal, and steamed vegetables can be easier to manage. Soft foods minimise chewing force, which prevents the “bruised tooth” sensation from feeling too intense.
Once your discomfort improves, you can gradually add your usual foods back into your routine, keeping in mind the general limitations of braces.
Keeping Your Mouth Clean When Everything Feels Tender
A clean mouth is a more comfortable mouth, especially when your teeth and gums are adjusting to braces. Even though brushing and flossing may feel sensitive during the first few days, maintaining your hygiene routine is one of the best ways to reduce discomfort. Clean tissues heal faster, and keeping plaque under control prevents inflammation that could make soreness worse. When your mouth feels tender, focusing on gentle, steady habits instead of a perfect routine is the key to staying comfortable.
Brushing Slowly and Gently
Speed is not your friend when your mouth is sore. Use a soft toothbrush and slow, gentle strokes to clean around your brackets and gumline. Taking your time prevents additional irritation while still keeping your teeth clear of buildup. If brushing is uncomfortable, try brushing with warm water or changing the angle of your brush so you’re not applying too much pressure to sensitive spots.
Rinses That Help Reduce Irritation
Warm saltwater rinses are simple, soothing, and effective. Rinsing a few times a day can calm irritated gums, ease tenderness, and help cleanse areas that are difficult to brush when your mouth feels sensitive. Some patients prefer a mild, alcohol-free mouth rinse for freshness. Keeping these tools available during the first week makes a noticeable difference in how quickly your mouth adapts.
Tools That Make Cleaning Easier
Small accessories can make hygiene far more comfortable during the adjustment period:
- Interdental brushes for getting around brackets
- Water flossers for gentle cleaning under wires
- Pre-threaded flossers for easy flossing when your mouth feels sore
These tools help you stay consistent without pressing too hard on sensitive areas, and they keep your mouth feeling fresher throughout the day.
Ready for a More Comfortable Braces Journey?
If soreness is getting in the way or something just doesn’t feel right, the team at DiMarzio Orthodontics is always here to help. Dr DiMarzio and Dr Marczak are committed to making treatment as smooth and comfortable as possible for patients across Quincy, Braintree, and Milton.
Schedule your free consult at our Quincy office or give us a call anytime. We’re here to keep your smile progressing comfortably and confidently from day one.