How much do invisible aligners cost?

NewSmile aligners start at $1,799, with 0% interest monthly plans available. All aligners are Licensed by Health Canada, ensuring top safety and quality standards.

How long does treatment take?

Most smiles are complete in 4–6 months, depending on your case. Each aligner set is worn for about two weeks before switching to the next one.

Are NewSmile aligners safe?

Yes — our aligners are BPA-free, phthalate-free, and latex-free, and Licensed by Health Canada for your peace of mind.

How do I wear and care for my aligners?

Wear aligners for 22 hours per day for daytime aligners, or 10 continuous hours for nighttime aligners. Remove only to eat, drink (except water), or brush your teeth. Clean daily with mild soap and a soft brush — never hot water.

Yes! Most dental plans that include orthodontic coverage will reimburse part of your aligner cost. We’ll provide everything you need to submit your claim.

Do you offer whitening?

Yes — our peroxide-free whitening foam brightens your smile gently without causing sensitivity, and it’s safe to use during or after treatment.

How much are replacement retainers?

Replacement retainers cost $199 per set (upper and lower), or you can save with a subscription plan. We recommend replacing every 6 months to prevent orthodontic relapse.

Why You Should Avoid Harsh Chemicals When Cleaning Your Retainer

Quick Answer: 🪥 Using harsh chemicals on retainers can damage materials, affect fit, and pose oral health risks. Safe alternatives include gentle DIY cleaners, ultrasonic devices, and cleaning pods that maintain hygiene while protecting your retainer.

“I didn’t realize harsh chemicals could ruin my retainer and my teeth. Switching to safe cleaning methods changed everything!”

🪥 Why Harsh Chemicals Are Dangerous for Retainers

Many people assume strong chemicals are necessary to disinfect retainers, but this can actually compromise both the appliance and your oral health. Here’s why:

• Plastic or Acrylic Components: Harsh cleaners can warp, crack, or discolor, affecting comfort and fit.
• Metal Wires: Chemicals can corrode or weaken wires, increasing breakage risk.
• Soft Linings: Degradation can make retainers uncomfortable and less effective.
• Health Risks: Residual chemicals may irritate oral tissues or be ingested, impacting overall health.

Even occasional use of bleach, alcohol, or undiluted hydrogen peroxide can shorten your retainer’s lifespan and reduce effectiveness.

Pro Tip: Gentle cleaning methods protect your retainer and teeth, keeping both safe for the long term.

✨ Safe Retainer Cleaning Methods

You don’t need harsh chemicals for effective cleaning. Here are proven, safe methods:

✔ Baking Soda & Water: Neutralizes odors and removes plaque. Soak for 15–20 minutes in 1 tbsp baking soda per 1 cup lukewarm water.
✔ Diluted White Vinegar: Gently breaks down mineral deposits. Mix 1:1 with water for a 15-minute soak, then rinse.
✔ Diluted Hydrogen Peroxide: Occasional deep cleaning (1:1 with water) sanitizes safely.
✔ Ultrasonic Cleaning: Uses sound waves to remove debris. Try the Petal Ultrasonic Cleaner for best results.
✔ Retainer Cleaning Pods: Non-abrasive pods boost ultrasonic cleaning, remove bacteria, and neutralize odors. Check out Petal Cleaning Pods.

“Using the ultrasonic cleaner with pods made my retainer look and feel brand new without harsh chemicals.”

🌙 Why Nightly Retainer Wear Is Essential

After orthodontic treatment, teeth naturally shift back toward their original positions—a process called orthodontic relapse. Nightly retainer wear keeps teeth aligned and prevents costly retreatments.

The periodontal ligament, the soft tissue holding teeth in place, is elastic. Chewing, tongue pressure, and bone remodeling can move teeth if a retainer is not worn consistently.

Nightly wear is particularly effective because teeth experience their longest uninterrupted rest period during sleep. Missing a few nights can cause noticeable movement, especially in the front teeth.

Pro Tip: Consistent nightly retainer wear is the easiest way to maintain a perfect smile long-term.

✨ Making Nightly Retainer Wear Comfortable

Mild pressure, soreness, or excess saliva is normal when first wearing a retainer, indicating it’s actively holding teeth in place. Discomfort usually resolves in a few nights.

Tips for comfort:

✔ Start gradually: Wear for a few hours before bed, then overnight.
✔ Build a routine: Brush → floss → clean retainer → insert.
✔ Check for damage: Replace cracked or warped retainers promptly.
✔ Address irritation: Use orthodontic wax or consult your dentist for adjustments.

🦷 Smile Assessment: Your First Step

A comprehensive Smile Assessment evaluates bite, jaw movement, and retention needs. NewSmile ensures your retainer is comfortable and supports long-term oral health.

• Bite alignment and tooth positioning
• Signs of grinding or clenching
• Jaw movement and muscle balance
• Retention needs after orthodontic treatment

“The Smile Assessment helped me understand my bite and why a proper retainer was essential for my teeth and jaw.”

🛠 How NewSmile Works

Smile Assessment: Determines your bite and retainer needs.
At-Home Impression Kit: Order here.
Custom Fabrication: Retainers crafted to your bite.
At-Home Wear: Supports alignment and oral health.

Learn more at how NewSmile works.

💰 NewSmile Retainer Pricing

New Customer Retainers – View Pricing
Extra Thick Retainers – View Pricing
Night Guard – View Pricing
Explore full collection – NewSmile Shop

🛡 Retainer Care & Oral Health Essentials

💭 Final Thoughts

Harsh chemicals may seem convenient, but they damage retainers and compromise oral health. Safe cleaning methods, nightly wear, and NewSmile retainers ensure comfort, hygiene, and long-term protection.