Braces remain one of the most effective and widely used methods to correct dental misalignment. For patients in Vancouver, they offer a reliable path to better oral health, facial symmetry, and long-term stability. But while the results are transformative, the process requires adjustment both physically and mentally.
Discomfort is part of orthodontic treatment, especially in the early stages or after adjustments. Patients may also feel uncertain about what they can do to avoid delays and help the process move along smoothly.
This guide provides clear, accurate, and practical advice for anyone undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces in Vancouver. You’ll learn what to expect, how to reduce discomfort, and how daily habits directly impact your treatment timeline.
What to expect during the first days with braces in Vancouver
When braces are first placed, it’s common to experience pressure and soreness. This is a normal response to the gentle but continuous force the braces apply to move your teeth. The discomfort typically begins a few hours after the appointment and may last for several days.
Chewing can be difficult, and teeth may feel sensitive, especially when eating firmer foods. In some cases, brackets and wires may irritate the inside of the lips and cheeks. This tends to improve after a few days, as the soft tissues in your mouth adapt.
It’s important to understand that this soreness is a sign that the braces are working. As the teeth shift, the bone around them remodels to accommodate the new position. Each adjustment appointment reactivates this process, and a similar cycle of discomfort may occur for a couple of days after each visit.
However, if the pain is sharp, long-lasting, or caused by a broken wire or loose bracket, it’s important to contact your orthodontist for assistance.
How to relieve soreness and feel more comfortable
The discomfort caused by braces is temporary and manageable with the right care. Most patients in Vancouver find that the first week is the most challenging, but the tips below can help make the transition smoother and more tolerable.
Here’s the only bullet point section of this article, summarizing the most effective ways to relieve discomfort:
- Eat soft foods like soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs during the first few days.
- Use orthodontic wax on any brackets or wires that are irritating the inside of your mouth.
- Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to soothe irritation and promote healing.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (tylenol), if recommended by your healthcare provider.
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of your jaw to reduce swelling and ease tension.
These strategies help most patients manage the initial period of adjustment. After the first week, the discomfort usually decreases significantly. With each adjustment, soreness tends to be milder and easier to handle.
Good habits that keep your braces treatment on track
Although braces work continuously without needing to be worn or removed like Invisalign, your behavior still plays a major role in the success and speed of treatment. In fact, how well you take care of your braces can make a significant difference in how long you’ll wear them, and in the quality of the results.
The most important habit is maintaining excellent oral hygiene. Brackets and wires create new surfaces where food and plaque can accumulate, increasing the risk of cavities and gum inflammation. A healthy mouth allows teeth to move more efficiently, while poor hygiene can lead to complications that slow your progress.
Another key factor is protecting the braces themselves. Biting into hard or sticky foods can break brackets or bend wires, interrupting the force needed for proper movement. Every time an appliance is damaged, treatment may pause until repairs are made and that usually adds weeks to your timeline.
Attending scheduled appointments is also essential. Your orthodontist monitors progress, makes adjustments, and ensures everything is moving as planned. Skipping visits or delaying them means slower results and more time in treatment.
In cases where elastic bands are prescribed to correct bite alignment, wearing them exactly as directed is critical. These elastics apply additional force to move the jaw into the right position. Ignoring this part of the plan can extend treatment by several months.
Finally, avoid habits like nail biting, chewing on pens, or grinding your teeth, as these can interfere with the braces and affect alignment. Braces may be fixed in place, but everything you do around them matters.
Staying motivated when treatment feels long
Orthodontic treatment with braces usually lasts between 18 and 24 months, depending on the complexity of the case. During that time, it’s normal to feel impatient or discouraged especially when progress seems slow.
The best way to stay motivated is to track your improvements. Take monthly photos of your smile and compare them over time. Even if you don’t notice changes day to day, small movements add up, and the long-term transformation becomes clear.
Keeping your goal in mind also helps. Whether you’re aiming for better aesthetics, improved function, or relief from jaw discomfort, remembering why you started can make the process more tolerable.
If you experience significant discomfort or emotional fatigue during treatment, talk to your orthodontist. Sometimes, small adjustments to your care routine or reassurance about your progress can make a big difference.
Remember: every week you stay consistent brings you closer to the finish line. Good habits now lead to less time in braces and better, longer-lasting results.
Book a consultation with a trusted provider of braces in Vancouver
Braces are a proven solution for long-term oral health, but the process works best when you know what to expect and how to manage it. With the right care and consistent habits, you can reduce discomfort, stay on schedule, and achieve your desired results without unnecessary setbacks.
If you’re considering braces in Vancouver or are looking for expert support during your treatment, PacificWest Dental Group is here to help. Our experienced orthodontists provide personalized care, clear communication, and advanced solutions tailored to your needs. Book your consultation today and take the next step toward a healthier, more confident smile.
Hello! I’m Dr. Kevin Lee, a certified orthodontic specialist at PacificWest Dental Group, proudly serving the vibrant communities of Vancouver and Surrey. My journey into orthodontics began back in high school. As a teenager wearing braces, I became fascinated by the intricate blend of art, engineering, and biology that defines this field. This early experience ignited a passion that has guided me throughout my career.
I pursued my academic journey at the University of British Columbia (UBC), where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry in 2006, followed by a Doctor of Dental Medicine in 2011. After a year-long residency at Montefiore Medical Center in New York, I returned to UBC to complete a combined Master of Science in Craniofacial Biology and a Diploma in Orthodontics in 2015. That same year, I achieved certification from both the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and the American Board of Orthodontics.
With over a decade of clinical experience, I remain deeply committed to staying at the forefront of orthodontic advancements. At PacificWest Dental Group, we prioritize personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring comfort and care every step of the way. Our goal is to help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Outside the clinic, I enjoy engaging with our community and staying active. Whether it’s through local events or outdoor activities, I believe in building strong relationships both inside and outside the office. I look forward to meeting you and working together to create a beautiful, confident smile.
Services we provide:
-Invisalign
-Braces
-Lingual Braces
-Digital treatment planning
-TMJ and headpain treatment
-Laser Therapy
-Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance
-Dysport Cosmetic Injectables
