Starting orthodontic treatment is an exciting step toward a healthier, more confident smile. But it’s also normal to wonder how braces or Invisalign might affect the rest of your body along the way. Some patients ask whether orthodontic treatment can cause headaches, jaw tension, or facial discomfort. Others want to know if correcting their bite could actually help reduce head or jaw pain.
The answer is nuanced. Some people experience temporary headaches during orthodontic treatment, especially early on or after adjustments. At the same time, correcting bite alignment may help relieve certain types of headaches for some patients. Understanding why this happens, what’s considered normal, and when to reach out to your orthodontist can help you feel more confident throughout treatment.
Braces work by applying gentle, controlled pressure to move teeth into healthier positions gradually. This process allows the jaw, muscles, and surrounding tissues to adapt safely over time. Many patients notice only mild pressure, particularly after the initial adjustment period.
However, it’s common to experience temporary soreness when braces are first placed or adjusted. Your teeth are anchored in bone by ligaments, and when pressure is applied, those ligaments and surrounding tissues can become sensitive. That discomfort may sometimes be associated with muscle tension in the jaw or face, which can contribute to headaches.
Some patients also experience mild headaches after adjustment appointments. During these visits, wires may be tightened, or appliances such as rubber bands or power chains may be added or adjusted. These changes can temporarily increase pressure as your teeth respond to the new forces. In most cases, this discomfort improves within a short period as your mouth adapts.
Invisalign clear aligners use a similar biological process to braces, but without brackets and wires. Each set of aligners is custom-designed to move specific teeth gradually and predictably. Most aligner trays are worn for one to two weeks before switching to the next set.
Because each tray applies slightly different pressure, some aligners may feel tighter than others. It’s common to notice mild aching in the teeth or jaw when starting a new tray. In some cases, this pressure may be associated with tension-related headaches, especially during the first day or two of wear.
For most patients, this sensation is temporary. As the teeth and jaw muscles adjust to treatment, discomfort often becomes less noticeable. Invisalign is designed to move teeth incrementally, which helps minimize stress on the jaw and surrounding structures.
Headaches during orthodontic treatment are not always caused directly by braces or aligners. Several factors can overlap, especially during periods of adjustment. Common contributors may include:
As treatment progresses, many patients find that their bite becomes more balanced and their jaw muscles adapt. For these patients, headaches often occur less frequently over time.
In some cases, orthodontic treatment may help reduce certain types of headaches. A misaligned bite can place uneven pressure on the jaw muscles and joints. Over time, that strain may contribute to jaw discomfort, facial tension, or tension-related headaches.
Correcting alignment and improving how the teeth fit together, braces or Invisalign may help reduce excessive pressure on the jaw for some patients. While orthodontic treatment is not a treatment for migraines or neurological conditions, addressing bite issues can improve overall comfort for some individuals.
Staying hydrated is an important but often overlooked part of orthodontic comfort. Dehydration can contribute to headaches, jaw fatigue, and muscle tension. Drinking plain water throughout the day supports overall health, helps reduce acids and food particles in the mouth, and is safe to drink while wearing Invisalign aligners.
Choosing soft foods during the first few days after getting braces, switching aligners, or having an adjustment can also help. Foods that are easy to chew reduce additional stress on teeth and jaw muscles while they adapt.
Mild headaches shortly after getting braces, changing aligners, or having an adjustment are relatively common. However, it’s important to contact your orthodontist if:
Although it’s uncommon for orthodontic appliances to cause severe headaches, checking in allows your orthodontist to evaluate fit, pressure levels, and bite changes. Adjustments can often be made to improve comfort.
If you experience a headache during orthodontic treatment, several at-home strategies may help provide relief:
If you suspect nighttime clenching or grinding, talk with your orthodontist before trying any appliances. They can recommend solutions that are appropriate for braces or Invisalign and tailored to your specific treatment plan.
Headaches often last a day or two after an adjustment and typically improve as your mouth adapts.
Not usually. Temporary discomfort can occur as teeth and jaws adjust. Your orthodontist should evaluate persistent or worsening headaches.
It’s uncommon for Invisalign or braces to trigger migraines. If migraine symptoms occur, contact your orthodontist to assess possible contributing factors.
No. Continue wearing your aligners unless your orthodontist advises otherwise. Stopping treatment without guidance can delay progress.
In some cases, correcting bite alignment may help reduce jaw strain that contributes to tension-related headaches.
Headaches during orthodontic treatment are usually temporary and manageable, and not everyone experiences them. Many patients find discomfort improves as their mouth adjusts, and the long-term benefits of a healthier bite and confident smile often outweigh short-term soreness.
If you’re experiencing headaches with braces or Invisalign in Royal Oak, MI, Petrous Orthodontics is here to help. Our team takes a personalized approach to care, carefully monitoring your progress and making adjustments to keep treatment as comfortable and effective as possible.
Home
Design, video, photo, and branding by Clear Partnering Group.
