Living with braces — eating, soreness and daily care
The first week with braces is the hardest. Knowing what to expect makes it far easier for teens and adults alike.
Teeth usually feel sore for two to four days after braces are fitted or adjusted. Soft foods, standard painkillers and orthodontic wax help. Avoid hard, sticky and chewy foods that can break brackets, and clean carefully around them after every meal.
Key facts
- Soreness 2–4 days after adjustments
- Soft foods first week
- Avoid hard, sticky foods
- Clean after every meal
Soreness
Pressure as teeth begin to move; cold water, soft food and painkillers as directed help. Wax covers brackets that rub the cheeks.
What to eat and avoid
Easy: pasta, rice, eggs, yoghurt, soft fruit, cooked vegetables. Avoid: hard nuts, ice, toffee, chewing gum and biting into hard apples or corn on the cob.
Daily care
Brush around each bracket, use interdental brushes or a water flosser, and keep a small cleaning kit for school or work.
Fixed braces use brackets and wires to move teeth with high control. They remain one of the most predictable options for complex crowding, rotations and bite correction.
Prepared by the Manhal Medical Center editorial team · Updated: 2026-10-04 · Treating specialist: Dr. Moaiyad Pacha
This page is general information and does not replace a consultation. Suitability, risks and results vary between patients.
Your specialist
Dr. Moaiyad Pacha
Consultant Orthodontist & Partner · Airway & Sleep
Orthodontics, MARPE expansion, airway-focused treatment and Invisalign.
Book your consultation in Dubai
Tell us what you need by form, phone or WhatsApp — our team will match you with the right specialist and confirm a time.
Questions patients ask
Patients visit us from Al Safa, Al Wasl, Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim, Al Quoz, City Walk, Business Bay, Downtown Dubai and Al Barsha — and from Sharjah and the wider UAE.
How long do braces hurt?
Usually two to four days after fitting or adjustments.
Can I eat normally with braces?
Most foods, cut into small pieces; avoid hard and sticky ones.
What if a wire pokes my cheek?
Cover it with wax and contact the clinic.
Can I drink coffee with braces?
Yes, but brackets and ties may stain; rinse afterwards.
Where can I get eating with braces in Dubai?
At Manhal Medical Center, Building 101, Street 22A, Al Safa 1, Dubai, UAE, with Dr. Moaiyad Pacha (Consultant Orthodontist & Partner · Airway & Sleep). Book by phone, WhatsApp or the form on this page.
Which doctor should I see?
Dr. Moaiyad Pacha (Consultant Orthodontist & Partner · Airway & Sleep) at Manhal Medical Center.
How do I book an appointment?
Use the form on this page, call +971 4 328 4560, or WhatsApp +971 52 987 2411. Our team will match you with the right doctor.
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Building 101, Street 22A, Al Safa 1, Dubai, UAE