When it comes to braces, the honest answer is that they don't hurt at all when applied to the teeth. However, after the orthodontic wire is placed in the newly placed brackets, there may be minor pain or discomfort that can last from a few days to a week. Taking care of your teeth with soft foods and medications such as Advil and Orajel can help ease any pain or discomfort. Every time you need to change the cable or make an adjustment, you're likely to feel mild pain or discomfort.
But don't worry, this won't last forever! Rubbing an oral anesthetic such as Orajel or Anbesol directly onto sensitive teeth and gums can help desensitize your teeth and gums so you don't feel the discomfort of moving your teeth so sharply. The main thing you can expect with braces is that your mouth will probably hurt the first day immediately after you put on your braces (for a couple of days) and every time they are “adjusted”. Knowing what to expect from braces will help you prepare for any pain or discomfort that may come with them.
