Do braces hurt?

Dr. Kemal Bulut Çırpan · 2 November 2026 · 2 min read

This is the question our patients ask most often before starting braces. The short answer: having brackets fitted is not painful. Feeling some mild sensitivity in the first days is normal.

When they are fitted

Brackets are attached to the surface of the teeth with a special adhesive. No needles or anaesthetic are needed. Apart from keeping your mouth open for a while, you will not feel any discomfort during the procedure.

The first few days

In the 2–4 days after the wire is fitted, you may feel pressure on your teeth and sensitivity when chewing. This shows that the teeth have started to move, and it passes on its own. Choosing soft foods during this time makes things easier. If the brackets rub against your cheek or lip, you can press the orthodontic wax we give you onto the bracket.

After check-ups

After a wire change or adjustment, there may be similar sensitivity for a day or two. If needed, you can take a simple painkiller after consulting your dentist.

For more information about braces, see our Braces Treatment page.

Dr. Kemal Bulut Çırpan, DDS
Orthodontist in Fethiye. PhD in orthodontics, Invisalign and Spark provider.