Does placing an orthodontic screw hurt a lot?

An orthodontic mini-screw is placed after simple local anesthesia of the gum area, so there is almost no pain during the procedure, and it takes only about 5 to 10 minutes. After the anesthesia wears off you may feel a heavy or throbbing sensation for a day or two, but for most people it passes without needing a painkiller. However, if the gum around the screw stays swollen or pain lasts more than a week, there may be inflammation or the screw may be loosening, so please come in for a check.