Moldham

Hi and welcome Moldham!

First thing ... there's no such thing as 'tightenings' anymore, they've been called 'adjustments' for quite a few years. Tightenings referred to the time when bands were worn around all teeth and the archwires were wires that didn't have a shape or built in force or 'memory'. These wires were 'wound' at the ends and this had the effect of 'tightening' the archwire.

Adjustments are something to look forward to, as you get to hear how your teeth are progressing. Also it's a great time to ask questions and to find out what (if anything) you need to be doing to help this time progress smoothly.

I've no idea why your mouth is sore on some days. It may be that you have some movement happening that's causing sensitivity. On those days rinse often with warm salt water and don't eat foods with acid. Also make sure you use generous amounts of wax on any brackets that rub your mouth, so that you don't get any sores in your mouth. You may also find a change to sensodyne toothpaste helps.

Most important ... keep well hydrated! Drink plenty of water every day, as hydration helps your whole body, and most importantly it helps your mouth to cope with having braces.

Good luck with your treatment!

the pain comes and goes.. its pretty tolerable though and just means your teeth are moving