Wearing an orthodontic appliance is an important choice for both the health and aesthetics of your smile, but it’s normal to have some concerns before starting the treatment. One of the most frequently asked questions by patients—whether children, adults, or parents—is: “Does the appliance hurt?” Let’s take a look at what to expect in the first few days and how to best manage this initial phase.
Yes, it is completely normal to feel some discomfort or mild pain in the first few days after the appliance is applied, especially during chewing. This happens because the teeth start moving and the tissues need to adapt to the new pressure. However, this is a temporary discomfort that tends to decrease progressively within a few days.
Unfortunately, all types of appliances—be it the classic metal braces, invisible lingual braces, or clear aligners—can cause discomfort in the beginning and require an adaptation period.
The good news is that with the right care and the instructions we provide, these situations are always manageable and can be easily overcome by every patient.
During the first 3–5 days after the appliance is applied or adjusted, you may experience:
These symptoms indicate that the appliance is beginning to do its job. To ease the discomfort, you can follow a soft diet and, if needed, use orthodontic wax or a mild pain reliever, always under medical advice.
If the pain is very intense, doesn’t improve after a month, or if you notice significant lesions, it’s best to contact your orthodontic specialist for an evaluation. Often it’s just a small adjustment to the appliance that can greatly improve comfort.
At our practice in Reggio Emilia, we support each patient in a personalized way, explaining in advance what to expect and offering continuous assistance in the days following the visit. It’s important to know that, even if the first few days may seem difficult, it is only a transitional phase: the body quickly adapts, and the appliance becomes a normal part of daily life.