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Apr 14, 2025
Do braces hurt? 7 common questions parents ask
When you're considering orthodontic treatment for your child or teen, it’s completely natural to have questions - especially if it’s your first experience with braces. At BeClear Orthodontics, we work with families every day, and we know how important it is for parents to feel informed, reassured, and supported.
From what braces actually feel like to how long treatment takes and what options are available, here are 7 of the most common questions we get from parents - answered honestly and simply, by our expert team.
1. Do braces hurt?
This is always the first question - and we get it! The short answer is: not really, but they can feel a bit uncomfortable at first.
Most children describe the feeling as a dull ache or tightness, particularly in the first few days after getting their braces fitted or adjusted. It’s not sharp pain - more like the pressure you feel when something is gently nudging your teeth (because that’s exactly what’s happening).
“We always reassure families that this discomfort is completely normal, and it passes quickly,” says Dr. Dima Mobarak, Specialist Orthodontist at BeClear. “Children adapt surprisingly well, and we’re always here with advice and support if they need us.”
Clear aligners like Invisalign® First or Angel Aligners may cause even less discomfort, as they use smooth trays and gradual force to shift teeth.
2. Will my child be able to eat normally with braces?
Mostly, yes - though we recommend softer foods during the first few days while their mouth adjusts. After that, most children go back to eating normally, with just a few brace-friendly swaps (like skipping crunchy apples or chewy sweets).
We give all our patients a simple guide on what’s safe to eat, and it becomes second nature in no time.
3. How long does orthodontic treatment take for kids and teens?
Every smile is different, but on average, treatment with braces or clear aligners lasts between 12 and 24 months.
We use advanced 3D scanning and planning tools to create precise treatment timelines - and keep you updated on your child’s progress every step of the way. Some clear aligner options may offer faster results in mild cases.
4. What if my child is nervous or has sensory sensitivities?
We completely understand. Our practice is designed to feel calm, welcoming, and supportive. We take the time to explain everything clearly, let children see and feel the equipment before anything goes in their mouth, and move at a pace that works for them.
For more sensitive children, clear aligners may be a great option, as they’re smooth, removable, and don’t involve brackets or wires.
5. Are there discreet options for teens who are self-conscious?
Absolutely. At BeClear, we offer:
- Ceramic braces - with tooth-coloured brackets that blend in with the smile
- Invisalign® and Angel Aligners - clear, removable aligners that are almost invisible
Both are fantastic options for teens who want straighter teeth without drawing attention to their treatment.
6. How often will we need to visit the practice?
Typically, patients with braces come in every 6–8 weeks for adjustments - but if your child chooses clear aligners, they may need even fewer appointments thanks to our Dental Monitoring system.
This allows us to check their progress remotely via an app, which is especially helpful for busy families and working parents. We also offer early morning (8am) and evening consultations (until 6pm on Mondays and Tuesdays) to make things as easy as possible.
7. How much does it cost - and is a consultation really free?
Yes - our initial consultations are completely free, with no obligation to start treatment. We’ll walk you through your child’s options, answer all your questions, and provide a personalised quote.
We offer a range of payment plans, including 0% interest options, and we’ll help you choose what works best for your family.
Final thoughts
It’s completely normal to feel a little unsure when starting your child’s orthodontic journey. But at BeClear, we’ll be with you every step of the way - from that first free consultation to the moment they show off their confident new smile.
Book your free consultation
Got more questions? Come and chat with us in person. Book a free consultation today and find out how we can help your child smile with confidence.
Your dedicated Specialist Orthodontist in Manchester
Dr Dima is a globally recognised Specialist Orthodontist and the #1 provider of Invisalign® treatment in Greater Manchester.
She works alongside a talented team who share her passion for putting stunning smiles on our patients' faces.
Success Stories Hear from our happy patients
Tim
I had an amazing experience with Laura and Paige at BeClear! I knew my case wasn’t the most complex, but my teeth were always something that secretly bothered me. Everything was explained well, there was never any pressure or pushy sell, you could tell straight away that they were the right fit for me! 14 weeks on and I can see such a difference; not only that, I FEEL happier! Thanks guys!
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Amaya Kamali
This time last year I was searching around looking at Google reviews for an Orthodontist, and luckily I found BeClear. I can’t fault the service, from start to finish the girls have been fantastic and really can’t do enough for you. The results from the Invisalign® treatment have been better than I could have imagined so I cannot recommend BeClear enough.
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Amin Addai
I received a 5 star service from BeClear Orthodontics, both Dr Duncan and Paige were very professional and really helpful throughout the process. They were also very knowledgeable in giving me all the information I needed to help me make a decision on getting Invisalign® or traditional braces.
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Ashley Stephens
I’m currently mid-way through my treatment plan and I can’t believe how easy everything has been so far. I’d avoided getting my teeth straightened for so long as I thought I’d need to keep going back to get my teeth assessed and adjusted, but doing everything remotely after the initial consultation & adjustment fitting was so handy and convenient!
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Cassiana Puchy
I finished my treatment with BeClear 6 months ago, I couldn’t be more happy than I am right now with my new smile. I can say BeClear has been my best decision – Dr Duncan and her staff have been amazing. I don’t have enough words to describe how great, caring and professional they have been. If anyone wants to improve their smile, check out BeClear and you will see after the first 10 minutes, you are in the right place with the best people.
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Cassie Sugrue
I cannot recommend BeClear Orthodontics enough! The whole team has been brilliant throughout. Dr Duncan really cares about getting you your perfect smile and makes sure you are happy with the results. She has changed my smile in a way I didn’t think was possible with Invisalign®! Thanks so much!
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Catherine Fidler
I cannot recommend Dr Laura and the team at BeClear enough! I’d been looking at quite a few different orthodontists over the last 2-3 years before I finally found BeClear and knew instantly it was the right fit for several reasons. The whole process from start to finish was really clear and friendly. There was none of the pressure I’d had with other orthodontists in pushing you to sign up, which spoke volumes about their overall approach in going above and beyond to make their clients feel comfortable.
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Ella Hewertson
I honestly cannot fault BeClear Orthodontics and their service. The team are so welcoming from the get go and so easy to contact throughout the process if you have any questions. The remote element is fantastic. I would (and have!) recommended BeClear to everyone I know. 5 stars all round – thank you BeClear team!
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Gemma
I went to visit Laura and the team last February believing there was nothing that could be done with my teeth. I had hated them for as long as I remember, but resigned myself to the fact that they would always look awful. I’m not a fan of dentists full stop, but when you step inside the clinic you are met with such friendly staff that you cannot help but feel at ease. Every single person I spoke with, on the phone, over WhatsApp or on the dental app, were so friendly and helpful.
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James
I’ve always wanted to have my teeth straightened as it was something I was hugely self conscious of. Aware that it is a financial investment to be taken seriously, I was keen to find the right practice for the job. Dr Duncan and her team are those people! Hugely supportive, positive and always there to answer any question; the whole process has been wonderful and the result, a perfect set of pearly whites!
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Kaisha
Absolutely amazing practice! Hands down the best girls and treatment for myself with my Invisalign® and for my daughter with her fixed braces. We love coming to see you! Thank you for making the daunting experience of getting braces a pretty cool and exciting thing to be going through. Legends, all of you!
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Kat
I visited BeClear Orthodontics today to find out how they could help me improve my teeth with Invisalign®. The practice is new, and all the equipment and technology is the very latest and state of the art. Laura and Paige were welcoming and made me feel comfortable and at ease. Even though the practice is new, Laura is very knowledgeable and experienced. I cannot wait to start my treatment and know I will be in very capable hands!
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Matt Stubbs
Dr Duncan, Paige and the whole team were excellent throughout my Invisalign® experience. I can’t recommend BeClear enough! They made the whole process really easy and were always available to deal with any questions/queries I had. I’ll miss checking in with them. Thanks a lot guys!
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