Does Getting Kids Braces Hurt? A Parent’s Guide to Be Prepared

Orthodontic treatment for children plays a crucial role in guiding jaw development, correcting misaligned bites, and ensuring a healthy smile. Early treatment, especially when baby teeth and permanent teeth are both present, allows for more effective interceptive treatment. Starting your child’s orthodontic journey early can help prevent more extensive treatments down the road.

In this article, we’ll explore:

• When to start kids braces for kids
• Common types of braces
• How to manage pain
• Alternative options like Invisalign first

When should kids get braces?

Most orthodontists recommend an orthodontic assessment by age 7. At this stage, children often have a mixture of baby and adult teeth, allowing orthodontists to spot potential alignment issues early, such as:

• Overcrowded teeth
• Cross bite or bad bite
• Tooth trauma or misaligned teeth
• Early eruption of teeth or extra teeth
• Sleep disorders in children

Early orthodontic treatment, often referred to as interceptive kids braces treatment, can help prevent complications related to poor bite, crooked teeth, and jaw growth disharmony. 

What are the types of dental braces used for children?

Parents today can choose from a wide range of braces treatment options based on the child’s needs and lifestyle. Each has unique features tailored to different orthodontic needs.

• Traditional metal braces remain the most affordable and widely used option. They use durable metal brackets and orthodontic wires to effectively treat a broad range of orthodontic issues, making them ideal for general cases.
• For a more discreet look, ceramic braces are a popular choice among teens. These braces feature tooth-coloured ceramic brackets, offering the same effectiveness as metal braces but with greater aesthetic appeal.
• Another option is self-ligating braces, which use special clips instead of rubber bands to hold the wire in place. This design reduces friction and allows for quicker and more comfortable regular adjustments.
• For those seeking maximum invisibility, lingual braces are fitted behind the upper and lower teeth, making them completely hidden from view, suitable for older children who are particularly concerned about appearance.
• Finally, Invisalign offers a modern and comfortable alternative using removable aligners. These clear trays are ideal for early orthodontic treatment for children, especially those with mild to moderate alignment issues who may benefit from a less invasive, more flexible solution.

What to expect during dental braces treatment?

1. Initial consultation

A kids dentist or orthodontist will use digital scanning technology, photos, and digital X-rays to evaluate teeth alignment and create a custom treatment plan.

2. Braces placement 

For traditional braces, the orthodontist will bond metal brackets to each tooth and thread a horseshoe-shaped wire through them. While the process is painless, children might feel mild pressure.

3. Periodic adjustments

Every 4–8 weeks, your child will attend orthodontic appointments for wire tightening or rubber band changes. These regular adjustments guide the teeth into their correct positions.

Do dental braces hurt? How to manage pain?

Many parents worry about whether kids braces are painful. While braces may cause temporary discomfort, it is usually mild and manageable.

Common symptoms:

• Sore gums and teeth, especially after adjustments
• Minor mouth sores or irritation from brackets
• Pressure while chewing

Pain management tips:

• Use soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and porridge
• Apply orthodontic wax to cushion rough edges
• Rinse with warm saltwater for oral care and to ease irritation
• Offer paracetamol or ibuprofen as directed
• Use a cold compress on the cheeks for relief

With time, most children adjust well. Practicing good dental hygiene for kids is also key to avoiding gum disease, tooth decay, and loose wires.

Related Articles:

• Wearing Invisalign: How convenient is it, really?
• Dental Braces Singapore How Much They Cost & What's The Process (2025)

Invisalign clear aligners: A discreet option for younger kids

Invisalign For Kids is a modern orthodontic option tailored for children aged 6–10 with milder bite issues. It uses removable aligners, custom-made clear plastic trays, to guide teeth into place gently and gradually.

Benefits of Invisalign for kids:

• Invisible braces: Discreet and comfortable
• No sticky foods or chewy candy restrictions
• Easier to maintain oral hygiene
• Removable for brushing and meals

It’s a popular choice for kids who need early intervention with braces but want to avoid metal brackets. However, children must be responsible enough to wear them for 20–22 hours daily.

Invisalign vs traditional braces: Which should I choose?

How long is the treatment duration?

• Traditional braces: Typically 18–30 months, depending on dental conditions and age
• Invisalign: Around 6–18 months for initial alignment, may need future treatment later

How do I help my child adjust to life with braces?

Making the experience a positive one helps ensure a successful treatment. Here’s how:

• Stick to braces-friendly diets with soft foods
• Maintain strong oral hygiene using interdental brushes and dental checkups
• Celebrate milestones with photos or colors
• Use reminders or apps to track time in braces or aligner wear

A child-friendly environment and a compassionate team of orthodontists can make all the difference. Click here to read more about the dental services we offer for kids.

What are the benefits of dental braces for children?

Beyond aesthetics, braces for children can:

• Prevent tooth decay, gum recession, and tooth loss
• Improve bite function and jaw growth disharmonies
• Correct bad habits like thumb-sucking
• Boost child's self-esteem and support a confident smile
• Establish a strong foundation for lifelong oral health

Conclusion

At Dental Designs clinic, we offer comprehensive braces treatment, from ceramic braces to Invisalign for kids and traditional metal braces. Whether you're focused on comfort, aesthetics, or long-term results, our clinic provides personalised care to guide your child toward a confident smile.

Let us help you choose the right type of braces used and ensure a comfortable treatment experience. Click here to learn more about our Invisalign Buddy programme.

If you are looking for an orthodontic evaluation for your child, feel free to book an appointment with us and take the first step towards a compassionate and effective treatment plan.