How long does orthodontic pain last?

Orthodontic pain is usually most intense 2-3 days after an appliance adjustment and generally goes away within a week. A similar pattern repeats with each adjustment, but many people adapt as treatment progresses and feel it less than at first. During painful periods, eat soft foods, and you may take a pain reliever if needed. However, if the pain lasts more than a week or is accompanied by gum swelling or fever, it may be due to another cause such as an infection, so please come in for an examination.