Does Orthodontic Treatment Hurt? What You Should Know Before Starting

Orthodontics is one of the most effective treatments for aligning teeth and improving the bite, but one of the most common questions patients have before starting is whether it causes pain.

The answer is that it should not cause intense pain, although it’s normal to feel some discomfort, especially during the first few days after getting braces or aligners, and after periodic adjustments.

Why discomfort occurs

Orthodontic treatment works by applying controlled pressure to the teeth to gradually move them into the correct position. This movement triggers a response in the bone and periodontal ligament, which may cause:

• Sensitivity when biting or chewing.
• Pressure on the teeth.
• Slight irritation of the gums, cheeks, or tongue (in the case of braces).

These sensations usually decrease significantly as the patient adapts to the treatment.

Discomfort depending on the type of orthodontics

1. Metal or aesthetic braces
They may cause friction on the inside of the mouth, especially at the beginning. This can be relieved with orthodontic wax and proper oral hygiene.

2. Invisible orthodontics Clear aligners such as Invisalign are generally more comfortable, but you may also feel pressure each time a new tray is fitted — a sign that your teeth are moving.

How to relieve discomfort

• Take mild pain relievers recommended by your dentist if necessary.
• Eat soft foods in the first few days to reduce chewing pressure.
• Rinse with warm salt water to soothe irritation.
• Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent gum inflammation.

The dentist’s role in your comfort

At our dental clinic in Barcelona, we provide personalized follow-up to make your treatment as comfortable as possible.

We adjust the force and technique according to each patient’s needs, offering advice and solutions to minimize discomfort.

At Clínica Dental Blasi, we have specialists in orthodontics who will guide you throughout the entire process, answering your questions and tailoring the treatment to your needs.

If you want to align your smile safely and effectively, we’ll be delighted to welcome you to our clinic and design a personalized treatment plan.

You can visit us at C/ de Muntaner, 341, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, 08021 Barcelona, or call us at +34 934 146 404 to book your appointment.