Does Getting Braces or Implants Hurt? What to Expect Before, During and After

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If you are considering getting metal braces or dental implants, it’s completely natural to wonder — will it hurt?

In this article, we’ll walk you through exactly what happens before, during, and after each treatment so you can feel more confident and prepared. You’ll also discover practical tips for managing discomfort, understanding what’s normal during recovery, and exploring safe, effective pain relief options recommended by dental professionals.

By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of what these procedures truly feel like — helping you replace uncertainty with trust, and take your next step toward a healthier, more confident smile.

Does getting braces hurt?

This is one of the most common questions among our patients. While you may experience some discomfort or soreness during the first couple of days after getting your braces, this is completely normal, and it usually goes away quickly as your mouth adjusts.

Pain during the procedure

Getting braces is not painful. Most patients describe feeling pressure or a ‘working’ sensation during the procedure, and this is because the wires and brackets are being attached to the teeth.

Pain after the procedure

Once your braces have been fitted, pain can feel stronger during the first day – especially at night and the next morning. This is completely normal as your teeth have started to move. It is also very common to feel discomfort when chewing or eating during the first week.

What to expect week by week after getting braces

• First week: Mild to moderate soreness is common, especially when chewing.
• Second week: Discomfort starts to fade, and you start to get used to how the braces feel.
• Third week: Most patients feel no pain by now, unless an adjustment is necessary.

How to relieve braces pain?

1. Take painkillers
   The NHS recommends taking over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to ease discomfort.
2. Eat soft food
   Stick to soft foods like yoghurt, soup, mashed potatoes, or scrambled eggs.
3. Use orthodontic wax
   Helps reduce irritation from brackets and wires.
4. Oral hygiene
   Brush carefully after every meal and use fluoride mouthwash.

Do dental implants hurt?

Dental implants involve a minor surgical procedure, so it is normal to experience some minimal discomfort during and after the treatment.

Pain during the procedure

You won’t feel pain during the implant placement, as local anaesthetic is used.

Pain after the procedure

You may experience soreness, swelling, or bruising for a few days.

What to expect week by week after dental implants

• First week: Mild tenderness is normal.
• Second week: If pain persists or worsens, contact your dentist.
• Third week: Most patients feel normal again.

How to relieve pain from dental implants?

1. Take painkillers
   Use paracetamol or ibuprofen as directed.
2. Cold packs
   Apply for 10 minutes to reduce swelling.
3. Oral hygiene
   Avoid brushing directly on the implant site initially.
4. Soft foods
   Avoid hot or spicy foods during early healing.
5. Lifestyle changes
   Avoid smoking, alcohol, and heavy activity for a few days.

Braces vs dental implants: Which one hurts more?

When to call your dentist

• Pain or swelling gets worse after 3 to 5 days
• Painkillers do not help
• Signs of infection such as redness, swelling, fever, or discharge
• Difficulty opening mouth or chewing

Conclusion

Both braces and dental implants can cause mild discomfort, but this is temporary.

If you are unsure which treatment is right for you, book a consultation with our team.

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This content is for informational purposes only. Consult a professional for personal advice.