Although braces are not painful, you may experience some soreness or discomfort when they are first placed. This is perfectly normal and you may also experience some discomfort if you get new bands, wires or headgear. You may also feel a little tenderness after an adjustment and a sensation of pressure is not uncommon. You should keep in mind that in most cases, any discomfort usually goes away in several days.

Eating soft foods for the first few days after you get your braces may help reduce the pain and discomfort. If you continue to feel any soreness, ask our orthodontist in Chicago, Illinois, Dr. Krushan Patel, to recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever. Even after the first few days you may want to go back to softer foods to make eating easier. But the truth is that eating a normal diet will actually help to relieve the discomfort. Chewing sugarless gum can also reduce the pain. Your cheeks, lips and even your tongue may feel tender as you get used to your braces. To help, place some of the wax we will give you on the braces and wires. If this does not help and the discomfort continues, call Tooth Fairy World at 773-327-3331.