Getting braces for the first time is kind of a big deal. Even if you’ve wanted straighter teeth forever, that first appointment can still feel a little intimidating. Will it hurt? What can you eat? Is everyone going to notice right away? These are all totally normal questions—and the good news is that the first week with braces is usually way more manageable than people expect.

Whether you’re a teen heading into your first orthodontic experience or an adult finally checking braces off your bucket list, knowing what to expect during week one can help you feel more prepared and way less stressed. Let’s break it down, day by day, so you can go into your first week with braces feeling confident instead of anxious.

The Day You Get Braces: What It’s Really Like

The appointment to get your braces on is usually longer than a regular visit, but it’s not painful. Your orthodontist will clean and dry your teeth, attach the brackets, and place the archwire that connects everything together. You might feel some pressure during the process, but nothing sharp or intense.

When you leave the office, your mouth will feel different—because it is. Your lips and cheeks may feel bulky against the brackets, and your teeth might feel tight or strange when you bite down. This is totally normal. At this point, most people don’t feel pain yet, just awareness.

You’ll probably also get a quick rundown on brushing, flossing, and foods to avoid. It sounds like a lot, but don’t worry—you’ll get into a routine faster than you think.

The First 24 Hours: When Soreness Kicks In

For many people, the soreness starts later that day or the next morning. This happens because your teeth are beginning to respond to pressure and shift slightly. The discomfort is usually described as a dull ache rather than sharp pain.

Eating during this time can be the most annoying part. Chewing puts extra pressure on your teeth, which can make them feel more sensitive. Soft foods are your best friend during the first couple of days. Think smoothies, yogurt, mashed potatoes, soup, scrambled eggs, and pasta.

Over-the-counter pain relievers can help if needed, and cold drinks or ice packs on the outside of your cheeks can reduce soreness. The key thing to remember is that this phase doesn’t last long. Most people feel noticeably better after a few days.

Learning to Talk, Smile, and Exist With Braces

Another adjustment during the first week is getting used to how braces feel when you talk and smile. You might feel like your lips don’t move the same way, or that your smile looks different than you imagined. This is normal—and temporary.

Some people experience slight speech changes at first, especially if they talk a lot during the day. Reading out loud, chatting with friends, or just going about your routine helps your mouth adapt faster. Within a few days, most people don’t even think about it anymore.

You may also notice minor irritation on the inside of your cheeks or lips as they adjust to the brackets. Orthodontic wax is super helpful for this and can make a big difference in comfort during the first week.

Eating With Braces: The Learning Curve

Food is one of the biggest changes during your first week with braces. Not because you can’t eat, but because you’ll quickly learn which foods are worth the effort and which ones are not.

Sticky, crunchy, or hard foods are off-limits because they can damage brackets or wires. But even foods that are technically “allowed” might feel uncomfortable at first. Most people naturally stick to softer foods until the soreness fades.

As your teeth start feeling better, you’ll slowly add more texture back into your meals. Cutting food into smaller pieces and chewing slowly helps a lot. By the end of the first week, many patients feel comfortable eating most of their regular favorites again—with a few exceptions.

Brushing and Flossing Feels Like a Workout at First

Let’s be honest—oral hygiene with braces takes more effort. Brushing around brackets and wires feels awkward at first, and flossing can seem like a whole event. But like anything else, it gets easier with practice.

During the first week, you’ll probably spend more time brushing than you ever have before. That’s a good thing. Keeping your teeth clean helps prevent soreness, swelling, and plaque buildup around the brackets.

Don’t worry if it feels slow or clumsy at first. By the end of the week, you’ll already be faster and more confident with your routine.

Emotionally, the First Week Is an Adjustment Too

Beyond the physical changes, there’s also a mental side to getting braces. It’s normal to feel a little self-conscious at first or to overthink how your smile looks. Most people realize pretty quickly that others don’t notice as much as they expected—or don’t care at all.

What helps is remembering why you got braces in the first place. Every day you wear them, you’re one step closer to a healthier, more confident smile. That mindset shift makes the adjustment period way easier.

When Should You Be Concerned?

Mild soreness, pressure, and irritation are all normal during the first week. However, if something feels sharp, broken, or unusually painful, it’s always okay to call your OKC orthodontist. They’d rather answer a quick question than have you uncomfortable at home.

Most issues during the first week are minor and easily fixed with wax, adjustments, or reassurance.

Your New Smile Starts Here with Elassal Orthodontics

The first week with braces can feel like a lot, but it’s also the beginning of something exciting. At Elassal Orthodontics, the team understands that those first few days set the tone for your entire experience—and they’re there to support you every step of the way.

Serving OKC, Moore, and Norman, Elassal Orthodontics creates personalized treatment plans that focus on comfort, efficiency, and real results. Whether you’re just starting to explore braces or ready to schedule your first appointment, their friendly team is ready to help you feel confident from day one.

If you’re thinking about braces or have questions about what treatment could look like for you or your child, contact Elassal Orthodontics today and take the first step toward a smile that’s worth the wait.