MNML Aligners vs NewSmile Canada: Which Custom Night Guard Is Worth It in 2026?

By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy

If you grind your teeth and you're comparing direct-to-consumer Canadian night guard brands, MNML Aligners and NewSmile Canada are two of the names that come up. They look similar on the surface — both send you an impression kit and ship a custom guard to your door — but the details that matter most to a Canadian buyer (price, currency, what's in the box, and clinical regulation) point in different directions. Here's an honest, side-by-side breakdown.

How MNML Aligners and NewSmile Canada compare at a glance

Price and what you actually pay in Canada

This is the comparison that matters most, and it has two layers: the sticker price and the currency.

MNML Aligners lists its custom night guard at $189 on its product page. Because MNML serves both Canada and the USA from one store, that single dollar figure isn't explicitly tagged as CAD — so a Canadian buyer should confirm the currency at checkout before assuming the final landed cost. If any portion of the order is fulfilled from the US, the Canada Border Services Agency may assess duties on top, which is the hidden cost that catches cross-border shoppers off guard.

NewSmile Canada removes that guesswork entirely. The custom night guard is priced at from $139 CAD on subscription / $199 CAD one-time — Canadian dollars, stated up front, no exchange-rate calculation. The price you see is the price you pay, and because it ships domestically, there's no CBSA duty assessment to add later. For a full breakdown of every price tier in the Canadian market, see our night guard cost in Canada guide.

What's actually in the box matters too

There's a second price factor that's easy to miss: how many guards you get. MNML's product page has you select a single arch — either upper or lower — for the $189 listed price. NewSmile includes both the upper and lower guard in the order, so you're protected on both arches without a second purchase. For heavy grinders who clench on both top and bottom teeth, that two-guard inclusion is a meaningful value difference, not just a marketing line.

Impression process and turnaround

Both brands use the same broad approach: you order, they mail an at-home impression kit, you take molds of your teeth, mail them back, and a custom guard is fabricated and shipped to you. Neither requires a dentist visit.

MNML leans on a 3D-printed digital workflow — once your impression is digitized, the design data is saved so future replacements can be made without new impressions. That's a genuine convenience if you tend to lose or damage guards. NewSmile's kit is dentist-supervised: a licensed dental professional reviews your impressions before a Canadian dental lab fabricates the guard, which adds a clinical checkpoint that a pure tech-forward workflow doesn't have. Both ship as soon as production is complete; we don't recommend trusting any "24-hour" or "48-hour shipping" claim for a custom guard, because fabrication time always comes first.

Guard types, materials, and fit

Both brands offer the three standard night guard categories, so you can match the guard to your grinding intensity:

• Soft — for light grinding and heavy clenching
• Hybrid — a soft inner layer for comfort with a harder outer shell for durability, for moderate grinders
• Hard — rigid material for moderate-to-severe bruxism and diagnosed TMJ

The differentiation is in manufacturing and oversight. NewSmile's 2mm hard night guard is built specifically for moderate-to-severe grinders and is made in a Health Canada Registered Facility from BPA-free, dental-grade materials — and it's Canadian Dentist Approved. That regulatory and clinical framing matters for a medical device you wear every night. To figure out which thickness is right for your grinding pattern, our hard vs soft night guard guide walks through the decision. If you're already in treatment or post-treatment, a night guard also pairs well with a custom retainer from NewSmile Canada to keep teeth from shifting.

Canadian shipping, duties, and regulation

For a Canadian buyer, the cleanest advantage NewSmile holds is logistics. The guard ships from within Canada in CAD, so there's no currency conversion and no customs exposure — two costs that quietly inflate the real price of US-fulfilled alternatives. MNML offers free shipping across Canada and the USA, which is generous, but a brand operating across both countries has to fulfill from somewhere; if your order crosses the border, the de minimis threshold and CBSA assessments come into play.

On regulation, NewSmile's Health Canada Registered Facility status and Canadian dentist oversight are verifiable, stated credentials. MNML's product page doesn't make equivalent regulatory claims, which doesn't mean the product is poor — only that a buyer doing due diligence on a nightly medical device has less to go on. For the full landscape of every brand shipping custom guards to Canadians, our best night guard in Canada ranking covers it.

Who each option is best for

Choose MNML Aligners if you want a 3D-printed digital workflow, you like the idea of saved design data for fast future replacements, and you're comfortable confirming currency and shipping origin at checkout.

Choose NewSmile Canada if you want a transparent CAD price, domestic shipping with no duty risk, both upper and lower guards in one order, and a guard made in a Health Canada Registered Facility with Canadian dentist supervision. For most Canadian grinders, that combination is the better fit — and you can order the NewSmile Canada custom night guard here.

FAQ

Is MNML Aligners a Canadian company?

MNML Aligners serves both Canada and the USA from a single online store and ships across both countries. It markets itself as an affordable, 3D-printed custom night guard option for North American buyers, but its product page doesn't state a Health Canada registration, so Canadians comparing medical-device credentials may prefer a facility that does.

Which is cheaper for Canadians: MNML or NewSmile?

NewSmile Canada prices in CAD at from $139 CAD on subscription / $199 CAD one-time and includes both upper and lower guards. MNML lists a single guard at $189. Because MNML's currency isn't explicitly stated as CAD and it ships across the Canada-US border, a Canadian buyer's true landed cost can vary — NewSmile's domestic CAD price has no conversion or duty add-ons.

Do both brands include upper and lower guards?

No. NewSmile includes both the upper and lower guard in the order. MNML's product page has you select a single arch — either upper or lower — for the listed price, so protecting both arches means a second purchase.

Is a custom night guard covered by the CDCP in Canada?

As of 2025, the Canada Dental Care Plan does not cover custom night guards or occlusal splints for bruxism. That makes transparent, affordable online options like NewSmile Canada especially relevant for CDCP-eligible Canadians who need grinding protection the plan won't pay for.

Can I get a hard night guard for severe grinding from either brand?

Yes. Both MNML and NewSmile offer a hard guard option for moderate-to-severe grinders. NewSmile's 2mm hard night guard is made in a Health Canada Registered Facility and is Canadian Dentist Approved, which adds clinical and regulatory assurance for heavy bruxism.

References

• Government of Canada: Canada Dental Care Plan
• American Dental Association: Bruxism (teeth grinding)
• Canadian Dental Association: Oral Health

ClearClub Retainers Canada vs NewSmile: Which Custom Retainer Is Worth It? (2026)

By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy

If you finished braces or clear aligners and your teeth are starting to drift, a custom clear retainer is the single most important thing standing between your smile today and slow, invisible shifting. Two direct-to-consumer names keep coming up for Canadians: ClearClub, a large US-based lab, and NewSmile Canada, a Canadian-operated provider. They look similar on the surface — both send an at-home impression kit and mail you a custom Essix-style retainer — but the experience for a Canadian buyer is meaningfully different. Here is an honest, fact-checked breakdown.

The 30-Second Comparison

How Each Brand Works

Both follow the same proven direct-to-consumer model, which is why the comparison is fair:

ClearClub

ClearClub ships an at-home impression kit, you take your moulds and mail them back with a prepaid label, and the lab fabricates your retainer and ships it to your door. The process is well-documented and the company has a large US review base. The catch for Canadians is geography: the kit and the finished retainer cross the border, and ClearClub prices everything in US dollars.

NewSmile Canada

NewSmile uses the same at-home impression workflow but is Canadian-operated and ships across Canada with no clinic visit required. Your custom clear retainers are fabricated from your home impressions using BPA-free, dental-grade thermoplastic and delivered anywhere in Canada. Because the transaction stays domestic, the price you see is in CAD with no currency conversion and no border fees. See NewSmile's Canadian retainer plans →

Price and Subscription: The Canada Number That Matters

This is where the two diverge sharply for a Canadian buyer, and it is worth slowing down.

ClearClub lists its custom retainer at from $164 USD on its US storefront and offers a renewal plan that delivers a new retainer every 3, 4, or 6 months at a reduced rate. Those are USD figures. When a Canadian checks out, the card is charged in US dollars, so the real CAD cost depends on the exchange rate on the day you order — and on top of that, a shipment from the United States can attract duty, taxes, and carrier brokerage fees that are not shown at checkout. The advertised price is not the landed cost.

NewSmile keeps everything in Canadian dollars. A custom upper-and-lower retainer set is from $139 CAD on subscription ($199 CAD one-time), and the subscription delivers a fresh replacement set every 6 months at the subscription price. Because it ships domestically, there is no FX conversion and no surprise brokerage bill. For most Canadians budgeting in CAD, that predictability is the deciding factor.

One note on cadence: ClearClub's most frequent renewal is every 3 months, while NewSmile's subscription replaces every 6 months. If you are a heavy grinder or tend to lose trays, more frequent replacements can feel reassuring — but most retainers worn nightly last roughly 6–18 months, and NewSmile lets you order additional sets whenever you need them without re-taking impressions. You can also explore NewSmile's custom night guard for teeth grinding → if bruxism is what is wearing your retainer down.

Materials and Build Quality

There is no meaningful quality gap here. ClearClub uses BPA-free, latex-free, FDA-approved thermoplastic at roughly 1mm thickness. NewSmile uses BPA-free, dental-grade thermoplastic fabricated with digital precision. Both produce a nearly invisible, snug-fitting Essix-style tray that holds your teeth in their finished position. ClearClub leans on its FDA-registered, made-in-the-USA lab status; NewSmile leans on its Canadian operation and the same dental-lab techniques an orthodontist would use. Either material will do the job — the difference is not in the plastic, it is in the price and the shipping.

The Canada Question: Cross-Border Duty and Delivery

This is the angle most comparison articles skip, and for Canadians it is the biggest one. ClearClub is a US company shipping from the United States. Canadian customs may apply to dental products shipped across the border, and courier brokers routinely charge a handling fee on top of any duty and tax. None of that is itemized when you check out on ClearClub's site, which means the final cost — and sometimes the delivery timeline — is uncertain until the package arrives.

NewSmile is Canadian-operated and ships within Canada, so there is no customs step, no brokerage fee, and no currency math. For a product you reorder for life, that domestic simplicity compounds: every replacement set lands at the same CAD price with the same predictable delivery. It is the same reason so many Canadians now prefer a domestic provider for retainers over a US lab.

Fit Guarantee and Support

Both back their product. ClearClub offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee and FSA/HSA eligibility (useful for US-based buyers; less relevant north of the border, where Canadians typically use private dental insurance or the Canadian Dental Care Plan rather than FSA/HSA accounts). NewSmile stands behind its retainers with the NewSmile Fit Guarantee and online support, and because the company is Canadian-operated, help lines up with Canadian time zones and consumer protections.

Who Should Pick Which

• Pick NewSmile Canada if you want one transparent CAD price, domestic shipping with no duty surprises, and an easy reorder path every 6 months. This is the right call for the large majority of Canadian retainer wearers.
• Pick ClearClub if you specifically want a US-made, FDA-registered product, you are comfortable paying in USD, and you do not mind potential border fees — for example, if you split time between Canada and the US or already have a US payment method.

FAQ

Is ClearClub available in Canada?

ClearClub is a US company and ships internationally, so Canadians can order, but pricing is in USD and the shipment crosses the border — meaning possible duty and brokerage fees on top of the exchange rate. NewSmile Canada is priced and shipped entirely in CAD within Canada.

How much is a ClearClub retainer in Canadian dollars?

ClearClub lists its retainer from $164 USD, so the CAD equivalent depends on the day's exchange rate plus any border fees. NewSmile's retainer is a fixed $139 CAD on subscription or $199 CAD one-time, with no conversion or duty added.

Which retainer is better for Canadians: ClearClub or NewSmile?

For most Canadians, NewSmile is the better fit because it is Canadian-operated, priced in CAD, and ships domestically with no cross-border fees. ClearClub is a reasonable alternative if you specifically want a US-made, FDA-registered retainer and don't mind paying in USD.

Do I need to redo impressions for every replacement?

With both ClearClub's renewal plan and NewSmile's subscription, you do not need to retake impressions for routine replacement sets — the lab keeps your mould on file. If you have had new dental work, a fresh impression may be needed.

Does the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) cover retainers?

CDCP coverage for retainers is limited and depends on your eligibility and plan stage; check current CDCP details. NewSmile's direct-to-consumer pricing is designed to be affordable with or without coverage. See our full retainer cost & CDCP guide for Canada.

References

• ClearClub — Custom Retainer product page (US site, USD pricing)
• Canadian Dental Association — patient oral health resources
• Health Canada — dental care and the Canadian Dental Care Plan

Biting Through Your Night Guard? Why It Happens and How to Get One That Lasts in Canada (2026)

By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy

Waking up to find a hole in your night guard — or a clean split down the middle — is frustrating and a little alarming. You bought the guard to protect your teeth, and now the guard itself is the thing falling apart. The good news: biting through a night guard is rarely a sign that night guards "don't work for you." It's almost always a mismatch between the guard's thickness and material and how hard you actually grind.

This guide breaks down why night guards crack and wear through, which thickness and material heavy grinders actually need, and how to get a durable custom night guard in Canada without paying dental-clinic prices.

Why Your Night Guard Keeps Cracking or Wearing Through

You're a heavier grinder than the guard was built for

Most over-the-counter and entry-level guards are designed for light to moderate clenching. Heavy grinders — people whose partners can hear the grinding from across the room, or who already have visible tooth wear — generate enough force to chew through soft material in a matter of months. If your guard has a worn groove or a hole where your lower teeth sit, your grinding has simply outpaced what that guard was made to handle.

The wrong material or thickness for your bite force

Night guards are not one-size-fits-all. A soft, flexible guard feels comfortable but sacrifices durability; a hard acrylic guard is rigid and lasts longer under heavy force but takes more getting used to. Many people who bite through their guard chose the softest option for comfort — and for a heavy grinder, that's the wrong trade-off. For related context on how material choice affects protection, see our hard vs soft night guard Canada guide.

A boil-and-bite guard was never going to survive heavy grinding

Boil-and-bite guards from a drugstore are made from thermoplastic that softens in hot water — which is exactly why they fit, and exactly why they fail. Under sustained nightly force, that same material deforms, thins out, and tears. If you've been cycling through cheap guards every few weeks, that's the design, not your fault. A custom-fabricated guard from a dental lab uses harder, lab-grade materials engineered for repeated nightly wear.

Age, heat warping, and cleaning mistakes

Even the right guard wears out. Hot water, leaving it in a hot car, or cleaning with abrasive toothpaste all degrade the material faster. A guard that's been warped by heat won't seat evenly, which concentrates force on one spot and speeds up cracking. Knowing when to replace your night guard is part of not ending up biting through it.

Can You Keep Using a Cracked Night Guard? (No — Here's Why)

It's tempting to keep wearing a guard with a small crack "just until the replacement arrives." Don't. A cracked guard has lost its structural integrity, which means:

• It stops protecting the cracked area — your teeth grind directly on each other through the gap, defeating the purpose.
• Sharp edges cut your cheeks and tongue, creating sores that take days to heal.
• It can split further mid-sleep, and broken pieces become a choking hazard.
• Uneven pressure can shift your bite, which is a far more expensive problem than a new guard.

A hairline crack becomes a full split quickly under grinding force. Once you see a crack or a worn-through spot, retire the guard that day and order a replacement.

Which Night Guard Thickness Actually Holds Up to Heavy Grinding?

Thickness is the single biggest factor in whether a guard survives heavy grinding. Most custom guards fall between 1mm and 3mm, and the right choice tracks directly with how hard you grind:

The pattern is simple: the harder and thicker the material, the more grinding force it absorbs before failing. If you've bitten through a 1mm or soft guard, step up to a 2mm hybrid or a 3mm hard guard. Going thicker than 3mm usually isn't necessary and can feel bulky enough to strain your jaw.

How to Stop Biting Through Your Next Night Guard

• Match the guard to your grinding level. If a dentist or partner has told you you grind heavily, start with a hard or hybrid guard at 2–3mm — not the softest option.
• Go custom, not boil-and-bite. A lab-fabricated guard uses harder materials and fits precisely, so force distributes evenly instead of concentrating on one wear spot. You can order a custom night guard in Canada from a home impression kit — no dentist visit required.
• Keep it out of heat. Store it away from hot cars, radiators, and hot tap water. Heat warps the material and accelerates cracking.
• Clean it gently. Rinse and clean daily with a non-abrasive cleaner; skip the toothpaste scrubbing, which micro-scratches the surface and weakens it.
• Replace on schedule. Even a durable guard thins over time. Replacing before it wears through is cheaper than repairing cracked teeth.

What a Durable Custom Night Guard Costs in Canada

A custom night guard through a Canadian dental clinic typically runs several hundred dollars and requires in-office appointments. An online custom provider cuts out the clinic overhead: NewSmile's custom night guard is from $139 CAD on subscription / $199 CAD one-time, fabricated from a home impression kit and shipped to your door. For heavy grinders who go through guards faster, the subscription lowers the per-guard cost and keeps a fresh one coming before the old one wears through.

If bruxism has also started shifting your teeth and you need to hold your alignment, a custom clear retainer in Canada can run alongside your night guard — they solve different problems, and some grinders use both.

FAQ

Can you bite through a custom night guard?

Yes — a custom guard can still crack or wear through if it's too thin or too soft for your bite force. Heavy grinders who choose a soft 1mm guard can bite through it in months. Choosing a harder or thicker material (2–3mm) is what prevents it.

What thickness night guard is best for heavy grinders?

Heavy to severe grinders generally do best with a 3mm hard or extra-durable guard, or a 2mm hybrid. Anything 1mm or soft is built for light clenching and will fail quickly under heavy grinding.

How long should a night guard last if you grind heavily?

There's no single number because it depends on material and force, but a hard custom guard lasts meaningfully longer than a soft one for a heavy grinder. If you're replacing a soft guard every few months, stepping up in thickness and material extends that interval considerably.

Is a hard or soft night guard better for heavy grinding?

Hard. Soft guards flex and absorb light force comfortably, but heavy grinding deforms them. A hard acrylic guard resists the force instead of yielding to it, which is exactly what a heavy grinder needs.

How much does a durable custom night guard cost in Canada?

Through a dental clinic, several hundred CAD. Through an online custom provider like NewSmile, a custom night guard starts from $139 CAD on subscription or $199 CAD one-time, made from a home impression kit.

Should I keep using a cracked night guard until the replacement arrives?

No. A cracked guard no longer protects the cracked area, can cut your soft tissue, and may split further and become a choking hazard. Stop using it as soon as you notice the crack and order a replacement right away.

References

• Canadian Dental Care Plan — coverage and exclusions (canada.ca)
• Sleep Foundation — mouthguards for teeth grinding
• Pro Teeth Guard — night guard thickness for bruxism

By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy

If you finished aligners or braces and you’re comparing retainer subscriptions, Cheeky and NewSmile are two of the names that come up most. They look similar on the surface — both mail you an impression kit, both make a custom clear retainer in a dental lab, both offer a subscription so you never wear a stretched-out tray. The differences that matter to a Canadian buyer are quietly buried in the pricing currency, the shipping route, and how each subscription actually renews.

This 2026 comparison breaks down exactly where Cheeky and NewSmile differ for Canadian customers — price, turnaround, subscription structure, materials, and support — so you can pick the one that actually fits a Canadian address and a Canadian budget.

What Cheeky and NewSmile Actually Sell

Both companies make the same core product: a custom clear Essix retainer — a thin, transparent tray vacuum-formed to a model of your teeth from impressions you take at home. Neither requires a dentist visit, and both use BPA-free, latex-free dental-grade plastic. The retainer’s job is identical in both cases: hold your teeth in their post-treatment position and stop the slow relapse that happens when retainers get skipped.

Where they diverge is the operating model. Cheeky is a U.S.-based direct-to-consumer brand — retainers are fabricated in U.S. dental labs, prices are listed in U.S. dollars, and the brand’s eligibility framing (HSA/FSA) is built around U.S. tax accounts. NewSmile runs a Canada-first service: CAD pricing, free standard shipping to all Canadian provinces and territories, and a Health Canada–registered production facility. For a Canadian deciding between the two, that origin difference shows up in your final cost and your wait time more than in the plastic itself.

Cheeky vs NewSmile Retainers: 2026 Comparison Table

Cheeky prices above are taken from getcheeky.com’s published U.S. list prices and are shown in USD; Canadians pay in USD and should factor in currency conversion. NewSmile prices are in CAD. Always confirm current pricing on each brand’s site before ordering.

Price: USD vs CAD Is the Whole Story for Canadians

The single biggest difference for a Canadian buyer is currency. Cheeky’s listed retainer price looks low at first glance — roughly $133 USD one-time, or a subscription that starts around $98 USD for your first retainer plus impression kit and about $49 USD for each additional retainer. But that number is in U.S. dollars. At typical CAD/USD exchange rates, you’re paying meaningfully more in Canadian funds than the sticker suggests, plus any foreign-transaction fees your card adds.

NewSmile quotes you in Canadian dollars from the start: from $199 CAD one-time, or from $139 CAD on subscription. No math, no conversion surprise, no cross-border card fee. For a product you’ll re-order on a subscription for years, that currency certainty compounds — every renewal is a known CAD number, not a moving USD target.

When you line the two up on a like-for-like CAD basis, NewSmile’s subscription is the more predictable cost, and it’s priced for a Canadian wallet without a hidden FX layer.

Subscription Structure: How Each Plan Replaces Your Retainer

Clear retainers don’t last forever. Most last roughly 6–12 months of nightly wear before they thin, stretch, or cloud up — and a stretched retainer stops holding your teeth where they belong. That’s the whole point of a subscription: a fresh tray shows up before the old one quietly stops working.

Cheeky ships a new retainer every 3 or 6 months, with additional retainers billed at a lower per-unit price once you’re subscribed. The 3-month option is aggressive — useful for heavy grinders who chew through plastic — but it also means more frequent charges in USD.

NewSmile offers a subscription that delivers fresh retainers on a set schedule so you never hit the “I’ve been wearing the same tray for two years and my teeth are drifting” problem. Because it’s billed in CAD and ships from within the Canadian flow, each renewal is a fixed, predictable cost with no cross-border variability. You can start a NewSmile retainer subscription here and set the cadence that matches how fast you wear through a tray.

Turnaround and Shipping: The Cross-Border Factor

Turnaround is where operating model meets geography. Cheeky quotes roughly 5–7 business days to design and ship a retainer after it receives your impressions — but that timeline is built around U.S. shipping lanes. A Canadian order has to clear the border, which can add customs hold time and, depending on the shipment, duty or brokerage considerations that a domestic order never sees.

NewSmile’s Canadian service ships free standard shipping across Canada, with your kit and finished retainer moving through the domestic postal/courier network rather than crossing an international border. For most Canadians, that means fewer surprises in both delivery time and final landed cost. Your kit ships as soon as your order is placed, and your finished retainer ships as soon as production is complete — NewSmile does not promise a fixed “48-hour” window, because real production time depends on how clean your impressions are.

Materials and Fit: Largely a Tie

On the plastic itself, there isn’t much daylight between the two. Both use dental-grade, BPA-free, latex-free clear Essix material fabricated in a professional dental lab from your at-home impressions. Both ship a prepaid return mailer for your impressions. Both offer some form of fit recourse if the tray doesn’t seat — Cheeky advertises a 30-day fit guarantee, and NewSmile provides remake support when an impression doesn’t capture the arch cleanly.

So if you’ve seen a claim that one brand’s plastic is “stronger” or “more invisible” than the other, treat it with skepticism — the underlying material category is the same. The real durability variable is you: how heavily you grind, how consistently you clean the tray, and whether you replace it on schedule. Which brings us to cleaning.

Care Tip: Clean, Don’t Scrub

Either retainer lasts longer when you clean it properly — and properly does not mean scrubbing it with a toothbrush and toothpaste, which micro-scratches the clear plastic and turns it cloudy fast. Rinse after every wear, soak regularly, and let an ultrasonic cleaner do the heavy lifting on buildup. A consistent cleaning routine is the single biggest lever on how long a clear retainer stays clear and snug — and it’s the reason a subscription exists in the first place, to swap the tray before neglect catches up with it.

What If You Grind Too — Retainer or Night Guard?

Here’s a question that decides which product you actually need: are you only holding your teeth in place, or are you also grinding them down at night? A retainer’s job is retention — keeping teeth where orthodontics left them. A night guard’s job is protection — absorbing the forces of bruxism so your enamel doesn’t fracture and your jaw doesn’t take the load.

If you grind heavily, a thin clear retainer can wear through fast (another reason subscriptions exist) and it isn’t engineered to take grinding force the way a proper night guard is. Many post-treatment Canadians actually need both: a retainer for alignment and a night guard for bruxism. If grinding is part of your picture, look at NewSmile’s custom night guard for teeth grinding alongside your retainer so you’re protecting the smile you just paid to straighten.

Canadian Tax and Coverage Notes

One more Canada-specific wrinkle: the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) does not cover custom retainers or night guards — they’re excluded as orthodontic/periodontal appliances — so neither Cheeky nor NewSmile is “covered” by the federal plan. Where NewSmile has an edge for Canadian tax filers is receipt simplicity: you get a CAD invoice you can keep for a Health Spending Account or the Canadian Medical Expense Tax Credit when a retainer is medically recommended. Cheeky’s HSA/FSA framing is built for U.S. tax accounts and doesn’t map cleanly onto a Canadian return.

Verdict: Which Retainer Subscription Is Worth It in Canada?

For a U.S. customer, Cheeky is a legitimate, well-reviewed subscription with a slick 3-month cadence. For a Canadian customer, the equation tilts clearly to NewSmile:

• Pricing certainty: CAD from the first click — from $139 CAD on subscription, $199 CAD one-time — instead of a USD number that grows at checkout.
• Domestic shipping: free standard shipping across Canada, no border, no customs hold.
• Canadian tax fit: a clean CAD receipt for HSA/Medical Expense Tax Credit use, not U.S. HSA/FSA framing.
• Subscription that renews in CAD: every fresh retainer is a known cost, not an FX lottery.

If you want the shortest version: Cheeky makes a good retainer, but it’s priced and shipped for the U.S. NewSmile makes the same category of retainer, priced and shipped for Canada. For most Canadians retaining post-treatment results, that’s the decision.

FAQ

Is Cheeky cheaper than NewSmile for Canadians?

Not on a like-for-like CAD basis. Cheeky’s list prices are in USD (~$133 USD one-time, ~$98 USD subscription starter), so after currency conversion and any card FX fees the real Canadian cost is higher than the sticker. NewSmile quotes from $139 CAD on subscription and $199 CAD one-time, with no conversion layer.

Does Cheeky ship retainers to Canada?

Cheeky is a U.S.-based direct-to-consumer lab that prices in USD and frames its benefits around U.S. HSA/FSA accounts. Canadian orders cross the U.S. border, so factor in currency conversion and potential customs/border time. NewSmile ships free within Canada in CAD with no border crossing.

Which retainer subscription is better for heavy grinders in Canada?

If you grind heavily, a retainer alone isn’t the right tool — a custom night guard is engineered to absorb grinding force. NewSmile makes both a custom retainer and a custom night guard, so you can pair retention with bruxism protection from one Canadian-priced source.

Are Cheeky and NewSmile retainers the same material?

Both use dental-grade, BPA-free, latex-free clear Essix-style plastic made in a professional lab from your at-home impressions. The material category is effectively a tie — durability depends more on your cleaning routine and replacement cadence than on the brand.

Does the CDCP cover Cheeky or NewSmile retainers in Canada?

No. The Canadian Dental Care Plan excludes custom retainers and night guards, so neither brand is federally covered. A NewSmile CAD receipt can support a Health Spending Account or the Medical Expense Tax Credit when a retainer is medically recommended.

References

• Canadian Dental Care Plan — covered services (Canada.ca)
• CRA — eligible medical expenses (Medical Expense Tax Credit)
• American Dental Association — orthodontics & retention

By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy

If your dentist just told you that you need a night guard for teeth grinding (bruxism), your first question is probably: will my insurance pay for it? In Canada, the answer depends on your plan type, your province, and how the device is billed. This guide walks through every coverage pathway available to Canadians in 2026.

Does the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) Cover Night Guards?

The Canadian Dental Care Plan, introduced by the federal government in 2024 for uninsured Canadians with household income under $90,000, covers essential dental services. As of 2026, the CDCP does not cover custom occlusal splints or night guards for adults. The CDCP focuses on preventive care: exams, cleanings, x-rays, fillings, and extractions.

If CDCP is your only dental coverage, a custom lab-made guard from NewSmile Canada starts at $139 CAD on subscription — compared to $600–$900 CAD through a dental office.

What Does Extended Health Insurance Cover?

Extended health benefit plans offered through employers, unions, or purchased independently are the most common path to night guard coverage in Canada.

Most major Canadian insurers — Sun Life, Manulife, Great-West Life, and Green Shield Canada — do cover custom night guards under major restorative dental, at 50–80% co-insurance after your deductible.

How to Verify Your Coverage

1. Log into your insurer portal → Dental Benefits → Major Restorative.
2. Search for “occlusal splint” or “bruxism appliance.”
3. Note your co-insurance percentage and remaining annual maximum.
4. Call the dental benefits line if you cannot find it online.
5. Ask your dentist to pre-determine coverage before ordering.

Using an HSA or Health Spending Account

If your employer provides a Health Spending Account (HSA), a custom night guard for bruxism typically qualifies as an eligible medical expense under the CRA’s guidelines. Keep your receipt and any written recommendation from a dentist for reimbursement documentation.

You can also claim eligible night guard expenses on your personal income tax return under the medical expense tax credit (line 33099). Check CRA’s medical expense guidance for current thresholds.

Can You Claim an Online Night Guard Through Insurance?

Extended health benefit plans generally require a dentist’s claim submission for major restorative dental benefits. If you order a custom night guard directly from an online lab without going through a dentist, most insurers will not reimburse it through major dental benefits.

However, HSA claims and medical expense tax credits are more flexible — the appliance is the qualifying expense regardless of where it was fabricated. The practical approach:

1. Get a brief dentist consultation to document bruxism and obtain a recommendation for a night guard.
2. Order fabrication from NewSmile Canada — $139 CAD vs. $600–$900 CAD at the dentist.
3. Submit the dentist exam and NewSmile receipt to your HSA for reimbursement.

FAQ

Does Sun Life cover night guards in Canada?

Sun Life’s standard employer group dental plans typically cover occlusal splints under major restorative dental benefits, commonly at 50% co-insurance after your deductible. Log into MySunLife and check your benefits booklet under “Major Restorative” to confirm.

Does Manulife cover night guards in Canada?

Manulife employer group plans often include night guard coverage under major dental care, subject to your plan’s co-insurance rate (commonly 50–80%) and annual maximum. Check your plan booklet to confirm whether occlusal appliances are covered.

Does the CDCP cover night guards?

No. As of 2026, the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) does not cover custom occlusal splints or night guards for adults. The CDCP covers essential dental care only.

Is a night guard an eligible medical expense in Canada?

Yes. A custom night guard prescribed for bruxism qualifies as an eligible medical expense under the CRA’s guidelines. You can claim it through an HSA or on your personal tax return under the medical expense tax credit (line 33099).

How much does a custom night guard cost in Canada without insurance?

Through a dental office, a custom night guard in Canada typically costs $600–$900 CAD. Online labs like NewSmile Canada offer custom lab-made night guards from $139 CAD on subscription, using a home impression kit.

Can I use my HSA to pay for a night guard in Canada?

Yes. A custom night guard for bruxism is generally an eligible expense under a Canadian HSA. Keep your receipt and any dentist documentation confirming the bruxism diagnosis.

What is the difference between an occlusal splint and a night guard?

They are the same device. “Occlusal splint” is the clinical and insurance billing term for what patients commonly call a “night guard.”

References:

• Canadian Dental Care Plan — Government of Canada
• Eligible Medical Expenses — Canada Revenue Agency
• Healthy Smiles Ontario — Ontario Government

By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy

If you've started looking for a custom night guard in Canada, you've probably already hit the first real decision point: soft or hard? The choice isn't as obvious as it sounds. Different materials work for different grinding patterns, and picking the wrong one can mean replacing your guard every few months instead of every few years.

This guide breaks down exactly what separates soft, hard, and hybrid night guards — and which Canadian patients should be wearing which type.

The Three Types of Custom Night Guards Explained

Soft Night Guards

Soft night guards are made from a flexible, rubber-like thermoplastic material (typically ethylene-vinyl acetate, or EVA). They're the most widely available type and the most comfortable for first-time wearers. The material gives slightly under pressure, which makes initial adjustment easier.

Best for: Mild clenching, light-to-moderate bruxism, patients with dental sensitivity who find hard appliances uncomfortable.

Lifespan: 6–12 months with regular use. Heavy grinders often wear through them faster.

The hidden problem with soft guards: Research has documented a counterintuitive finding — for some bruxism patients, the pliable texture gives the jaw muscles something satisfying to bite into, which can actually intensify grinding rather than reduce it. If you wake up with your jaw still aching after weeks of wearing a soft guard, this may be why.

Hard Night Guards

Hard night guards are fabricated from rigid acrylic (polymethyl methacrylate, PMMA) or copolyester. They don't flex under bite pressure. Instead, they create a flat, even occlusal surface that distributes grinding forces across multiple contact points simultaneously, which reduces the load on any individual tooth.

Best for: Moderate-to-severe grinding, TMJ disorder, patients who have cracked or worn down enamel, anyone whose soft guard has already failed.

Lifespan: 2–5 years with proper care.

The downside: Hard guards have a longer adjustment period. Most patients need 2–4 weeks before wearing one through the night comfortably. Wearing it for shorter periods at first helps.

Hybrid (Dual-Laminate) Night Guards

Hybrid guards combine both materials: a soft EVA inner layer that moulds comfortably against your teeth and a hard acrylic outer shell that resists grinding forces. They're the most popular option among online dental labs in Canada, including those shipping custom guards from CAD $129.

Best for: Moderate grinders who want comfort without sacrificing durability. Also the easiest transition for patients moving away from boil-and-bite OTC guards.

Lifespan: 1–3 years depending on grinding severity.

Side-by-Side Comparison: Soft vs Hard vs Hybrid

Who Should Choose a Soft Night Guard?

Soft guards are the right starting point for a specific subset of patients:

• Mild clenchors (not heavy grinders): If your main symptom is morning jaw tension rather than worn-down enamel or broken teeth, a soft guard will likely be sufficient.
• Patients with dental sensitivity: The flexible material is gentler against teeth that are already sensitive to pressure.
• People who have never worn a night guard before: A soft guard is easier to adapt to and can confirm whether you'll actually wear it before committing to a harder appliance.

If you've worn a soft guard for more than 3 months and are still waking up with jaw pain or headaches, that's a clear signal to move to a dual-laminate or hard guard.

Who Should Choose a Hard Night Guard?

Dental sleep medicine specialists consistently recommend hard acrylic guards for anyone with:

• Moderate or severe bruxism — visible wear facets on molars, chipped enamel, or a partner reporting loud grinding sounds
• TMJ disorder or jaw pain — hard guards can be adjusted (by a dentist) to optimize bite alignment and reduce joint strain
• Previous orthodontic or restorative work — crowns, veneers, and implants need the full protection of a rigid appliance
• Patients who burned through their soft guard within 6 months

The adjustment period is real, but it's manageable. Wear the guard for 2–3 hours before sleep for the first week to get accustomed to the feeling, then progress to wearing it all night.

What About Hybrid (Dual-Laminate) Guards?

Hybrid guards hit the sweet spot for most moderate grinders. The soft inner layer adapts to your tooth surface for a secure, comfortable fit, while the hard outer shell takes the grinding impact without deforming. They're also the most commonly available format through online custom labs in Canada.

The main limitation: hybrid guards aren't adjustable for bite alignment the way a pure hard acrylic guard is. If your dentist has recommended bite equilibration for TMJ treatment, a full hard guard is the better choice.

Does It Matter Whether You Buy Custom or OTC?

Significantly. Boil-and-bite guards from Shoppers Drug Mart or Amazon fit loosely, move during sleep, and are typically made from lower-grade EVA. A loose guard can shift tooth position over time, especially if worn nightly for months.

Custom night guards in Canada are fabricated in a dental lab from your actual tooth impressions. The fit is precise, the material grade is clinical, and the occlusal surface is even. At-home impression kit providers like NewSmile Canada deliver lab-made custom guards starting at $129 CAD — roughly 70–80% less than a dentist's $400–$800 clinic price — using the same materials and manufacturing process.

If you're comparing against other online custom night guard brands in Canada, the key differences to check are: which material types they offer, whether the lab is Canadian or US-based (which affects customs), and whether shipping is included in the CAD price.

How to Clean Your Night Guard

Regardless of material type, cleaning your night guard consistently extends its lifespan significantly. Rinse with cold water immediately after removing it each morning. For a deeper clean, use an ultrasonic cleaner designed for dental appliances — these remove biofilm, bacteria, and staining far more effectively than manual brushing, which can micro-scratch soft or hybrid guards and create surface areas where bacteria accumulate. Never use hot water, which warps the fit.

FAQ

Is a soft or hard night guard better for teeth grinding in Canada?

For most bruxism patients in Canada, a hard or dual-laminate (hybrid) night guard is clinically preferred. Soft guards are comfortable but wear down quickly and can encourage heavier clenching in some patients. Hard acrylic guards provide better protection, last longer, and offer better relief for TMJ-related jaw pain. See our guide on night guard costs in Canada for current pricing across all types.

How long does a custom night guard last in Canada?

A soft custom night guard typically lasts 6–12 months. A dual-laminate guard lasts 1–3 years. A hard acrylic guard can last 2–5 years with proper care. Lifespan depends heavily on bruxism severity — heavy grinders will replace guards more frequently regardless of material.

Can I buy a hard night guard online in Canada?

Yes. At-home impression kit providers like NewSmile Canada offer custom hard, soft, and dual-laminate night guards fabricated by a dental lab. The process uses the same impression-to-lab workflow as a dental clinic, at a fraction of the cost. Guards are shipped Canada-wide with no currency conversion or customs surprises.

Does the CDCP cover night guards in Canada?

As of 2026, the Canada Dental Care Plan (CDCP) does not cover custom night guards for bruxism. However, custom night guards may qualify as a medical expense under the CRA's Medical Expense Tax Credit. If your employer provides a Health Spending Account (HSA), a bruxism night guard is typically an eligible claim — check your plan documentation or consult a tax professional.

What thickness night guard should I get?

Thickness depends on grinding severity. Light grinders typically do well with a 1–1.5mm soft guard. Moderate grinders benefit from a 2mm dual-laminate guard. Heavy grinders and TMJ patients generally need a 3mm hard acrylic guard. Most online labs in Canada offer multiple thickness options when you order.

Can a night guard make bruxism worse?

In some cases, a soft night guard can make clenching more intense. The pliable material gives jaw muscles a surface to engage against more forcefully. This is why dental specialists typically recommend hard acrylic for diagnosed bruxism. If your symptoms worsen after starting a soft guard, switching to a hard or hybrid guard usually resolves the problem. Learn more about custom vs boil-and-bite night guards for teeth grinding in Canada.

By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy

If you grind your teeth at night, you already know how hard it is to find a custom night guard that doesn't require a dentist visit and a $600+ bill. Two brands come up constantly when Canadians search online: Cheeky and NewSmile. Both ship direct to your door. Both use home impression kits. But they are built for very different markets — and the one that's right for you depends heavily on where you're ordering from.

This is a full comparison for Canadian buyers specifically. Pricing, process, materials, turnaround, and the currency issue Cheeky never mentions on its product page.

What Is the Cheeky Night Guard — and Can You Actually Order It in Canada?

Cheeky is a US-based direct-to-consumer dental brand that sells custom night guards through a mail-in impression process. You order the kit, take impressions of your teeth at home, mail it back to their US lab, and receive a custom-fitted guard. Their product line runs from soft EVA guards to dual-layer (hard acrylic outer shell, soft inner cushion) guards used for heavier grinding.

Cheeky's guards are well-reviewed in the United States. The problem for Canadians: Cheeky operates entirely in USD and ships from the US. There is no Canadian storefront, no CAD pricing, and no information on their site about duties, taxes, or customs fees for Canadian orders. As of 2026, their single-guard pricing starts at approximately US$163 — which converts to roughly $220–$225 CAD at current exchange rates, before any import fees CBSA may apply.

That cost creep is real. A standard Cheeky night guard that looks affordable on their homepage can land on your doorstep costing $250–$280+ CAD by the time all charges clear. There is no way to know upfront, and Cheeky's checkout does not disclose this for Canadian addresses.

NewSmile Night Guard Canada: What You Actually Get

NewSmile's night guard is designed and priced for the Canadian market. Available at newsmilelife.ca, the process works as follows:

• Order the impression kit online (ships from Canada)
• Take impressions of your upper and lower teeth at home — no dentist visit required
• Mail the kit back in the prepaid return envelope
• Receive your custom-fabricated night guard in the mail

NewSmile offers both soft guards for light-to-moderate grinding and dual-layer guards for heavier bruxism. Pricing starts at $129 CAD, with no currency conversion, no hidden import fees, and free shipping across Canada. Everything is priced, processed, and supported within Canada.

NewSmile also ships as soon as production is complete — there's no artificial delay built into the process. Typical turnaround from impression receipt to delivery is a few weeks, comparable to any custom dental lab.

Cheeky vs NewSmile Canada: Side-by-Side Comparison

The Currency Problem: Why Cheeky Costs More Than It Looks for Canadians

This deserves its own section because it catches a lot of Canadian buyers off guard. Cheeky's website displays prices in USD. When a Canadian customer checks out, their credit card processes the charge in USD, and the Canadian bank applies a foreign exchange conversion — typically 2.5–3% above the posted rate. So the ~$220 CAD estimate at the time of order can easily become $225–$228 CAD by the time it appears on your statement.

Then there is the CBSA (Canada Border Services Agency) consideration. Custom-fabricated dental appliances shipped from the US to Canada can attract duties and GST/HST depending on classification. Cheeky does not address this anywhere in their Canadian ordering flow. Some customers report no additional charges; others report a CBSA fee on delivery. You have no way to know which outcome you'll get until the parcel arrives.

NewSmile eliminates this entirely. Every order on newsmilelife.ca is in CAD, processed domestically, and shipped without crossing a border. What you see at checkout is what you pay.

For a complete picture of what you should expect to pay for a custom night guard in Canada, see our guide: How Much Does a Night Guard Cost in Canada? (2026 Buyer's Guide).

Guard Quality: Is Cheeky Worth the Premium for Canadians?

Cheeky has a solid reputation in the US, particularly for their dual-layer guard's durability. The hard outer shell resists wear from heavy grinders, while the softer inner layer protects tooth enamel. This is the same two-material construction NewSmile uses for their dual-layer option.

The quality difference between the two products is not significant enough to justify paying 40–50% more CAD for a Cheeky guard after currency conversion — especially when you factor in the customs uncertainty. Both are custom-fabricated from dental impressions. Both use lab-grade materials. The clinical outcome — a guard that fits your teeth precisely and prevents grinding damage — is functionally identical.

Where Cheeky has historically invested more is in branding and packaging. If that matters to you, it's worth knowing. But for Canadian bruxism sufferers focused on protecting their teeth without overpaying, the price gap is not justified by any clinical difference in the guards themselves.

To see how the major Canadian night guard brands stack up, read: Best Night Guard Canada 2026: Every Major Brand Compared.

Which Night Guard Should You Choose?

Choose NewSmile if: You want a custom night guard in CAD with no currency surprises, free Canadian shipping, and support from a Canadian team. This applies to the vast majority of Canadian buyers — the pricing alone makes it the default choice.

Choose Cheeky if: You are a US-based buyer (or have a US address and credit card) and want a well-reviewed American brand with a strong track record. For Canadians specifically, the value proposition doesn't hold up.

If you are unsure whether you need a night guard or a retainer, this guide will help: Retainer vs Night Guard Canada: Which Do You Actually Need?

FAQ

Does Cheeky ship to Canada?

Yes, Cheeky can ship to Canadian addresses, but they price and charge in USD with no CAD equivalent. Canadian buyers absorb currency conversion costs and may face CBSA customs fees on delivery. The total landed cost is typically $220–$280+ CAD, compared to NewSmile's $129 CAD with no import surprises.

What is the best custom night guard in Canada?

For Canadian buyers, the best option is one with CAD pricing, domestic shipping, and no customs uncertainty. NewSmile's custom night guard meets all three criteria, starting at $129 CAD. See our full best night guard Canada 2026 roundup for a complete ranking.

How much does a custom night guard cost in Canada?

Custom night guards in Canada range from $129 CAD (online labs like NewSmile) to $600–$800+ CAD from a traditional dental clinic. The quality from a reputable online lab is equivalent to what a dentist office sends out — both use the same fabrication process. For a full breakdown, see How Much Does a Night Guard Cost in Canada?

Is Cheeky better quality than NewSmile?

Both brands use custom-fabricated dual-layer guards made from dental-grade materials. The clinical quality is comparable. Cheeky has strong brand recognition in the US, but for Canadian buyers the added cost from currency conversion and potential customs fees is not justified by any measurable difference in the guard itself.

Can I use a night guard for TMJ as well as bruxism?

Custom occlusal night guards are commonly recommended for both bruxism (teeth grinding) and TMJ symptom management. A properly fitted guard reduces the pressure on your temporomandibular joint during sleep and prevents further enamel wear. Both Cheeky and NewSmile's dual-layer guards serve this dual function.

Does the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) cover night guards?

As of 2026, the CDCP covers certain dental services for eligible Canadians, but coverage for night guards and occlusal splints varies by province and individual plan coverage. Online-ordered custom guards purchased directly from labs like NewSmile are generally out-of-pocket purchases. Check with your provincial dental coverage or extended benefits provider for details specific to your plan.

References

• Canadian Dental Care Plan — Health Canada
• Canada Border Services Agency — What You Can Bring Into Canada
• American Dental Association — Bruxism Overview

By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy

If you've been researching custom retainers in Canada, Smile Brilliant has probably come up. They're well-known for their teeth whitening products and have built a reputation as a direct-to-consumer dental lab. But how do they actually perform for Canadian buyers looking for a clear retainer — and how do they compare to NewSmile Canada, which operates from within Canada?

This guide breaks down everything Canadians need to know before ordering: what you actually get, how the cross-border experience plays out, and whether Smile Brilliant's retainer holds up against a Canadian-based alternative.

What Is Smile Brilliant?

Smile Brilliant is a US-based direct-to-consumer dental lab. Their primary product line centres on custom teeth whitening trays, but they have expanded into night guards, clear retainers, and sports guards. Their model works through an at-home impression kit: you receive a tray and putty, take dental impressions yourself, mail them back to the US lab, and the finished appliance is shipped to you. Smile Brilliant is FDA-registered and has served a large customer base in the US. However, they are not a Canadian company and do not have a Canadian storefront or CAD pricing.

Smile Brilliant Retainer — What You Actually Get

Smile Brilliant's custom clear retainer is an Essix-style retainer — the same thin, transparent plastic tray type used by most online labs and by orthodontists post-treatment. They offer both upper and lower arch options.

1. Order online (in USD) and receive an impression kit at your address
2. Take upper and lower dental impressions using the putty provided
3. Mail your impressions to their US lab (international return shipping is your responsibility)
4. Receive your finished retainers by international mail

Can Canadians Buy from Smile Brilliant? (The Cross-Border Reality)

Currency and Pricing

All Smile Brilliant prices are listed in USD. There is no CAD pricing on their site. The USD-to-CAD exchange rate means any product priced in USD costs approximately 35-40% more in Canadian dollars before adding any fees.

International Shipping Costs

For Canadian orders, Smile Brilliant charges international shipping both ways: once to send the impression kit, and once to deliver the finished retainer. Return shipping of impressions from Canada typically runs an additional $15-$25 CAD from Canada Post.

Customs and Import Fees

Dental appliances shipped from the US to Canada may be subject to customs duties and HST/GST at the border. Smile Brilliant explicitly notes they are not responsible for customs fees or import taxes.

Turnaround Time

Canadians typically wait 4-7 weeks total for any impression-kit product from a US lab, vs. 2-3 weeks for a domestic Canadian lab.

Smile Brilliant vs NewSmile Canada: Side-by-Side Comparison

What Makes the Canadian Buyer Experience Different

No CAD Invoice for Dental Insurance Claims

Many Canadians with employer dental benefits or HSA coverage want to submit a CAD invoice for a retainer claim. A USD invoice from a US company complicates reimbursement. NewSmile Canada issues a Canadian invoice in CAD. For more on retainer costs in Canada, see our complete Canadian retainer pricing guide.

Replacement Orders

Retainers need regular replacement every 12-24 months. Each replacement order from a US lab means repeating the entire cross-border process. With NewSmile Canada replacements, orders are placed in CAD with no customs friction.

Which Is Worth It for Canadian Buyers?

For the vast majority of Canadians, the math doesn't work in Smile Brilliant's favour for a standalone retainer purchase. USD-to-CAD conversion, international shipping both ways, return postage, and potential customs fees make the total cost considerably higher than $99 CAD all-in from a Canadian lab.

If you're comparing all your options, our guide to ordering retainers online in Canada vs. a dentist covers the full decision in more detail.

FAQ

Does Smile Brilliant ship to Canada?

Yes, Smile Brilliant ships internationally to Canada. However, all pricing is in USD, and Canadian customers are responsible for international shipping both ways plus any applicable customs fees and duties at the border.

What is the total cost of a Smile Brilliant retainer in Canada?

The total landed cost for a Canadian buyer includes the USD product price (adding approximately 35-40% for CAD conversion), international shipping both ways, return postage for impressions, and potential customs duties — making the actual CAD-equivalent cost considerably higher than the listed USD price.

Is Smile Brilliant a Canadian company?

No. Smile Brilliant is based in the United States and does not have a Canadian storefront, CAD pricing, or a Canadian lab.

What is the cheapest custom retainer in Canada?

NewSmile Canada offers custom Essix clear retainers at $99 CAD for both upper and lower arches, with Canada-wide shipping included. Order here.

Can I use my Canadian dental insurance for a Smile Brilliant retainer?

Potentially, but with complications. Canadian dental plans and HSAs typically require a CAD invoice. A USD invoice from a US company may not be accepted by all plan administrators. NewSmile Canada issues a standard Canadian invoice that most dental benefit plans process straightforwardly.

How long does it take to get a retainer from Smile Brilliant in Canada?

Total turnaround commonly runs 4-7 weeks for Canadian orders, compared to 2-3 weeks for domestic Canadian lab orders.

References

• Canadian Dental Association — Retainers
• Health Canada — Consumer Product Safety
• Canada Border Services Agency — Importing Goods

By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy

If you grind your teeth at night, you have probably landed on ClearClub while searching for a custom night guard. They run aggressive ads, they look polished, and their price point appears reasonable at first glance. But there is a wrinkle Canadians quickly discover: ClearClub is a US company, and buying from them means navigating USD pricing, international shipping timelines, and the unpredictability of customs duties.

This guide compares ClearClub and NewSmile Canada head to head — on price, materials, fit process, turnaround, and what the fine print actually says — so you can make a clear decision for your teeth and your wallet.

What Is ClearClub?

ClearClub is a US-based direct-to-consumer dental guard company that sells custom night guards via an at-home impression kit. They offer three guard thickness options — soft, medium, and hard — and market heavily to bruxism sufferers who want a dentist-quality guard without the dentist markup. Their base pricing starts around $139 USD, which sounds reasonable until you factor in the exchange rate.

For Canadians, that $139 USD becomes roughly $190 CAD at current exchange rates, before factoring in any customs clearance fees that Canada Border Services Agency may assess on dental devices. The actual landed cost varies and ClearClub does not publish a clear CAD price for Canadian buyers.

What Is NewSmile Canada?

NewSmile Canada is a Health Canada-registered custom night guard and retainer provider that prices and ships directly within Canada. Canadians pay in CAD — no currency conversion surprises — and the impression kit process is handled domestically from start to finish. NewSmile offers a hard acrylic night guard, the clinical standard for moderate-to-severe bruxism, with pricing starting from $99 CAD.

ClearClub vs NewSmile Canada: Side-by-Side Comparison

The Currency Problem — Why ClearClub Costs More Than It Looks

ClearClub lists their night guards in USD. When a Canadian buyer checks out, the actual charge depends on when the transaction processes and what exchange rate your bank applies. On a typical day in 2026, $139 USD converts to roughly $188–$195 CAD. Add international shipping (often $15–$25 USD for cross-border orders) and the landed price for a basic ClearClub guard approaches $215–$230 CAD before any CBSA assessment.

Canada Border Services Agency classifies dental devices, and while many small-value items pass through duty-free, there is no guaranteed exemption. If your package is flagged, you may owe additional fees — and the return process for a disputed customs charge on a dental device is not straightforward.

NewSmile Canada eliminates this entirely. You pay in CAD, the kit ships from within Canada, and your guard ships back to you domestically. The price you see is the price you pay.

Materials: Which Guard Actually Protects Your Teeth?

ClearClub offers three thicknesses: soft (2mm), medium (3mm), and hard (2mm hard acrylic). The soft guard is the most popular but is not recommended by most dental associations for moderate-to-severe bruxism — soft material actually encourages clenching in many patients, which can worsen jaw fatigue over time.

NewSmile Canada uses a hard acrylic material, which is the clinical standard for bruxism treatment. Hard acrylic does not compress under grinding pressure the way soft material does, meaning it protects both the guard and your teeth more effectively. If you grind hard enough to wear through a night guard, hard acrylic will outlast soft alternatives significantly.

If you are unsure whether you are a light or heavy grinder, read our guide on custom vs boil-and-bite night guards for Canadian bruxism sufferers before deciding on a material.

The Impression Process: What to Expect

Both ClearClub and NewSmile use an at-home impression kit. You press dental putty into a tray, bite down, hold for a set time, and mail the impressions back. A dental lab then fabricates a custom guard from your exact bite shape.

The core difference is logistics. ClearClub sends impressions to their US lab and ships your finished guard back across the border — adding days to the turnaround and reintroducing the customs variable. NewSmile's Canadian fulfilment keeps everything within one postal system, which translates to more predictable delivery windows.

TMJ and Jaw Pain: Does a Night Guard Help?

Night guards do not cure TMJ disorder, but they do reduce the clenching force transmitted to your jaw joint during sleep — which is the primary cause of waking up with jaw soreness or headaches. For Canadians dealing with bruxism-related TMJ pain, a hard acrylic guard worn consistently is one of the most well-supported conservative treatments available without a prescription.

If your symptoms are severe, see a dentist or oral medicine specialist first. A night guard is a management tool, not a diagnostic device. For more detail on what a custom guard can and cannot do for TMJ, see our full guide on custom night guards for TMJ and jaw pain in Canada.

What About the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?

The Canadian Dental Care Plan does not currently cover custom night guards as a standard benefit. Night guards fall under elective or preventive dental care, and CDCP coverage is structured around essential dental services for eligible lower-income Canadians. Your private dental insurance plan may cover a portion of a custom guard under a "major restorative" or "preventive appliance" category — check your EOB or contact your insurer directly before purchasing.

Because NewSmile Canada provides an itemized CAD receipt, submitting to private insurance for partial reimbursement is more straightforward than with a USD-denominated invoice from a foreign provider, which some insurers require to be converted and notarized before processing.

FAQ

Does ClearClub ship to Canada?

Yes, ClearClub ships to Canada, but they price in USD and ship internationally. This means Canadian buyers face currency conversion, potentially higher shipping costs, and possible CBSA customs duties that are not disclosed at checkout. The effective landed cost for a Canadian buyer is often $200–$230 CAD for their base guard.

Is NewSmile Canada a legit company?

Yes. NewSmile Canada is a Health Canada-registered provider of custom dental appliances including night guards and retainers. They operate as a Canadian company, price in CAD, and fulfil orders domestically without cross-border complications.

What is the best night guard for bruxism in Canada?

For moderate-to-severe bruxism, a custom hard acrylic night guard is the clinical standard. OTC boil-and-bite guards from pharmacies are inadequate for consistent grinders. NewSmile Canada and domestic dental labs both offer custom hard acrylic options — the key advantage of NewSmile is cost and the at-home ordering process that skips the dentist markup for a straightforward fabrication case.

How much does a night guard cost in Canada?

A dentist-fabricated custom night guard typically costs $400–$800 CAD. Online Canadian providers like NewSmile offer custom hard acrylic guards from $99 CAD. US providers that ship to Canada like ClearClub appear cheaper on their website, but effective CAD pricing after conversion and shipping is usually $200–$230 CAD. For a full breakdown, see our guide on night guard costs in Canada for 2026.

Will my Canadian dental insurance cover a night guard?

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) does not cover custom night guards. However, many private dental insurance plans include partial coverage for custom dental appliances under preventive or major restorative categories. Check your plan details and request an itemized CAD receipt from your provider to support the claim. A domestic Canadian receipt (CAD) is generally easier for insurers to process than a USD invoice from a US company.

How long does a custom night guard last?

A hard acrylic custom night guard typically lasts 2–5 years depending on grinding severity. Light grinders may get 5+ years from a single guard. Heavy grinders who wear through the acrylic surface should replace annually. Signs you need a replacement include visible bite-through grooves, cracking, or a guard that no longer seats flat against your teeth.

References

• Canadian Dental Association — Night Guards and Bruxism
• Health Canada — Medical Device Regulations
• Canada Border Services Agency — Importing Goods to Canada

By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy

If you wake up with a sore jaw, worn teeth, or a dull headache, you may already know the culprit: bruxism, the clinical term for unconscious teeth grinding during sleep. It affects an estimated 8–10% of Canadians and is one of the most common reasons people seek out a night guard. But with options ranging from $15 pharmacy trays to $600 dentist appliances, choosing the right one is genuinely confusing.

This guide cuts through the noise. Here is what actually protects your teeth from grinding — and what wastes your money.

What Is Teeth Grinding and Why Does It Happen?

Bruxism happens when your jaw muscles clench and slide your upper and lower teeth against each other, usually during sleep. You often have no idea it’s happening until your dentist notices flat spots on your enamel, or a partner tells you they can hear it from across the room.

Common causes include:

• Stress and anxiety (the most common trigger)
• Sleep disorders, particularly sleep apnea
• Certain medications, including some antidepressants
• Misaligned bite or jaw structure
• Caffeine or alcohol use before bed

Left untreated, chronic grinding can fracture teeth, wear away enamel, damage fillings, inflame jaw muscles, and lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems. A night guard doesn’t cure bruxism, but it acts as a protective barrier that prevents the damage.

Types of Night Guards Available in Canada

Not all night guards are the same. Here is what you will find at different price points across Canada:

The key insight: custom online guards and dentist-made guards use the same dental lab fabrication process. The difference is not quality — it is cost and convenience. Online providers skip the clinic overhead and pass the savings directly to you.

Boil-and-Bite vs. Custom Night Guard: What Research Actually Shows

Boil-and-bite guards have an obvious appeal: you can pick one up tonight for under $20. But their limitations become clear quickly:

• Poor fit. Boil-and-bite trays are moulded by hand in your bathroom, not by a dental lab. They rarely conform precisely to your bite, which means the guard can shift during sleep, cause soreness, or fall out entirely.
• Increased clenching reflex in some users. Soft, imprecise guards can actually trigger more muscle activity in certain people, making grinding worse rather than better.
• Low durability. Most boil-and-bite guards last 3–6 months at best before breaking down under the pressure of active grinding.

A custom-fitted guard made from dental-grade materials holds your jaw in a stable, neutral position. The occlusal surface (the biting area) is precisely calibrated to your teeth, which distributes pressure evenly and reduces the grinding reflex itself. Clinical studies published in the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation consistently show that properly fitted occlusal splints reduce both muscle tension and enamel wear compared to no treatment.

Hard vs. Soft vs. Dual-Laminate: Which Night Guard Works Best for Grinding?

If you are ordering a custom night guard for teeth grinding specifically, the material matters:

• Soft guards are comfortable but can actually intensify clenching in heavy grinders. Better for mild cases.
• Hard (acrylic) guards are the clinical gold standard for bruxism. Most Canadian dentists recommend them for moderate-to-severe grinding because the rigid surface interrupts the grinding reflex.
• Dual-laminate guards — soft on the inside, hard on the outside — offer a practical middle ground for most Canadian grinders: comfortable enough to wear consistently, firm enough to protect enamel.

If you grind heavily, go with hard or dual-laminate. Soft alone may not cut it.

Getting a Custom Night Guard in Canada Without Paying Clinic Prices

The traditional path — dentist consultation, in-office impressions, lab fabrication — runs $400–$650+ CAD at most Canadian clinics. Most provincial dental plans and the CDCP do not cover night guards as a standard benefit (they are classified as appliances, not diagnostic procedures).

The alternative is a custom online night guard:

1. Order an at-home impression kit (arrives in a few days)
2. Take your own dental impressions using the putty provided
3. Mail the impressions to the dental lab (shipping included)
4. Receive your finished custom night guard

The guard is fabricated by the same type of professional dental lab used by clinics. The materials, the precision fit, and the durability are equivalent. The only difference is you skip the $200 dentist chair fee.

See how costs compare in our 2026 Canadian night guard cost breakdown →

How to Take Care of Your Night Guard

A quality custom night guard lasts 2–5 years with proper care. The basics:

• Rinse with cool water every morning after removing it
• Store it dry in its case — never leave it in a wet container, which breeds bacteria
• For a thorough clean weekly, use the Petal Cleaning Pods with an ultrasonic cleaner — designed for Essix-style dental appliances, and far more effective than a toothbrush at removing mineral buildup
• Never use hot water, which can warp the guard and ruin the fit
• Bring it to your next dental checkup for a professional inspection

FAQ

Does a night guard stop teeth grinding?

A night guard doesn’t eliminate bruxism, but it prevents the damage grinding causes. It creates a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth and positions your jaw in a way that reduces grinding intensity. Many users notice less morning jaw soreness within a few weeks of consistent wear.

Can I get a custom night guard without seeing a dentist in Canada?

Yes. Online providers like NewSmile Canada use at-home impression kits and professional dental lab fabrication. You take impressions yourself, mail them to the lab, and receive a custom-fitted guard — no clinic visit required. The quality is equivalent to what your dentist would provide.

What kind of night guard is best for heavy grinders?

Hard acrylic or dual-laminate guards are recommended for moderate-to-severe bruxism. A hard surface is less likely to trigger the clenching reflex than a soft guard, making it more effective at reducing grinding force. If you grind heavily, avoid soft-only guards.

How long does a custom night guard last?

Most custom night guards last 2–5 years with proper care. Heavy grinders may wear through a guard faster — typically 1–3 years. If you notice cracks, rough edges, or the guard no longer fits snugly, it’s time to replace it.

Does insurance cover night guards in Canada?

Most provincial plans and the CDCP do not cover night guards as of 2026. Some private dental benefit plans offer partial coverage under the “appliance” or “prosthodontic” category — check your plan documents. An online night guard significantly reduces your out-of-pocket cost regardless of coverage status.

How do I clean a night guard for teeth grinding?

Rinse with cool water after every use. For a deep clean, use the Petal Ultrasonic Cleaner with Petal Cleaning Pods — ultrasonic cleaning removes bacteria and mineral deposits without scratching the surface. Never soak in hot water or clean with abrasive toothpaste, which degrades the material over time.

References

• Canadian Dental Association — Jaw Problems and Bruxism
• NIH — Sleep Bruxism and Occlusal Splint Therapy (Journal Review)
• Journal of Oral Rehabilitation — Efficacy of Occlusal Splints for Bruxism

By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy

If you wake up with a sore jaw, tender temples, or a clicking sound when you open your mouth, you may have been told you have TMJ disorder — or TMD. It affects an estimated 4 in 10 Canadians at some point in their lives, and bruxism (teeth grinding) is one of the most common triggers. A custom night guard is often the first line of treatment recommended by Canadian dentists. But with clinic prices running into the hundreds of dollars, many Canadians are now asking: is there a better option?

This guide breaks down what TMJ disorder actually is, how night guards help, and what Canadians should look for — and how much they should expect to pay in 2026.

What Is TMJ Disorder?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull. It’s the hinge that lets you chew, speak, and yawn. TMJ disorder (TMD) is a catch-all term for pain and dysfunction in that joint and the muscles that control it.

Common symptoms in Canada include:

• Jaw pain or tenderness, especially in the morning
• Clicking, popping, or grating when opening the mouth
• Difficulty fully opening or closing the jaw
• Headaches that start near the temples
• Ear pain or ringing that isn’t caused by an ear problem
• Neck and shoulder stiffness

Bruxism — unconscious clenching or grinding during sleep — is closely linked to TMD. The repeated muscle contractions overload the joint, leading to inflammation and the characteristic morning soreness that many Canadians recognize.

Does a Custom Night Guard Actually Help TMJ?

The short answer: yes, for most cases. A night guard works by creating a physical barrier between your upper and lower teeth. This does two things:

1. It reduces the force transferred to the jaw joint. When you grind, the impact is absorbed by the guard material rather than your enamel and joint structures.
2. It repositions the jaw slightly. A well-fitted custom guard holds your jaw in a more neutral position, reducing muscle tension throughout the night.

Multiple studies published in journals including the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation have found that occlusal splints (the clinical term for night guards) significantly reduce morning jaw pain and muscle tenderness in patients with TMD compared to no treatment.

It’s worth noting what a night guard doesn’t do: it won’t cure the underlying cause of bruxism, which is often stress-related, and it won’t reverse structural damage to the joint. For severe or progressive TMD, a Canadian dentist or specialist is still an important resource. But for the vast majority of Canadians dealing with grinding-related jaw pain, a quality custom guard is one of the most practical and effective interventions available.

Soft, Hard, or Dual-Laminate? Which Type Is Right for TMJ?

Not all night guards are the same, and for TMJ specifically, the type of material matters.

For most Canadians with bruxism-related TMJ pain, a dual-laminate or hard guard provides the best combination of protection and jaw repositioning. Avoid generic boil-and-bite guards from Shoppers Drug Mart or London Drugs — they don’t conform precisely enough to your bite and can actually worsen jaw muscle tension over time.

Canadian Dentist Night Guard vs Custom Online: What Should You Pay?

This is where the picture changes significantly for Canadian consumers. A dentist-made night guard in Canada typically involves:

• A consultation appointment ($80–$150 CAD)
• Impressions taken in-office ($0–$100 CAD, often included)
• The guard itself, fabricated by a dental lab ($350–$550 CAD)

Total: $400–$650+ CAD, depending on your province and clinic. Toronto and Vancouver clinics often run at the higher end. Most provincial dental plans (including the CDCP as of 2026) do not cover night guards as a standard benefit — they’re typically classified as an appliance, not a diagnostic procedure.

Custom online options like NewSmile Canada use the same dental-lab fabrication process but skip the clinic overhead. You take an impression at home using a simple putty kit, mail it to the lab, and receive your finished guard by post. The result is a clinically equivalent guard at a fraction of the in-office price.

For Canadians already struggling with TMJ pain, the financial barrier to entry is a real consideration. Getting effective relief shouldn’t require a $600 outlay upfront.

See the full 2026 night guard cost breakdown for Canada →

How to Use Your Night Guard for Maximum TMJ Relief

Wearing the guard is only part of the equation. To get the most benefit for TMJ pain:

• Wear it every night. Inconsistent use means your muscles don’t have time to adapt to the new jaw position.
• Keep it clean. Bacteria buildup on a guard can irritate gum tissue and worsen discomfort. Rinse with cool water after every use. For a deep clean, use the Petal Cleaning Pods with the Petal Ultrasonic Cleaner — both designed for Essix-style appliances. Never use a manual toothbrush with abrasive toothpaste, which scratches the surface and harbours more bacteria over time.
• Address daytime habits. Jaw clenching during work or stress can extend symptoms beyond nighttime. Awareness exercises and stress management help.
• Monitor fit. A guard that feels loose or that you’re biting through needs replacement. Most custom guards last 2–5 years with proper care.

When to See a Canadian Dentist or Specialist

A night guard is a strong first step, but some TMD cases need more targeted care. See a Canadian dentist or a TMJ specialist (orofacial pain specialist or prosthodontist) if:

• You have difficulty opening your jaw beyond 35mm
• The jaw locks open or closed
• Pain is severe enough to affect eating or speaking
• Symptoms don’t improve after 4–6 weeks of consistent guard use

In these cases, additional treatments — including physiotherapy, occlusal adjustment, or in rare cases, surgery — may be appropriate. The Canadian Dental Association recommends starting with conservative, reversible treatments like a custom night guard before pursuing more invasive options.

FAQ

Can a night guard cure TMJ disorder?

No — a night guard manages symptoms rather than curing the underlying condition. It reduces the mechanical stress on the temporomandibular joint caused by grinding and clenching, which relieves morning jaw pain and soreness for most users. For persistent or severe TMD, a Canadian dentist or orofacial pain specialist should be consulted.

How long does it take for a night guard to help TMJ pain?

Most Canadians notice a reduction in morning jaw soreness within 1–3 weeks of consistent nightly use. Full symptom improvement can take 4–8 weeks as the jaw muscles adapt to the new resting position provided by the guard.

Does the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) cover night guards for TMJ?

As of 2026, the CDCP does not cover custom night guards or occlusal splints. These are classified as appliances rather than diagnostic or restorative procedures. Some provincial dental plans and private insurance plans offer partial coverage — check your policy’s "appliance" or "prosthodontic" benefit. An online night guard reduces out-of-pocket costs significantly regardless of coverage.

Is a soft or hard night guard better for TMJ in Canada?

Hard or dual-laminate guards are generally better for TMJ-related grinding. Soft guards can feel more comfortable initially but may increase clenching intensity in some people, which is counterproductive for TMD management. Most Canadian dentists recommend a hard acrylic or dual-laminate splint for bruxism-related jaw pain.

Can I use an online night guard for TMJ or do I need to see a dentist?

For the majority of Canadians with bruxism-related jaw pain, a custom online night guard provides the same level of protection as a dentist-issued guard. The key is precision fit — generic boil-and-bite guards from a pharmacy won’t give you the right occlusal balance. NewSmile Canada uses a dental lab with the same impression process as in-office guards, making it a clinically appropriate alternative for most TMD cases.

How do I clean a night guard for TMJ?

Rinse with cool water after each use. For weekly deep cleaning, use the Petal Ultrasonic Cleaner with Petal Cleaning Pods — this removes bacteria and mineral deposits without scratching the guard surface. Never use a toothbrush with toothpaste or hot water, as both degrade the material over time.

References

• Canadian Dental Association — Jaw Problems and TMD
• NIH National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research — TMD Overview
• Journal of Oral Rehabilitation — Occlusal Splint Therapy for Bruxism and TMD

By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy

If you've been searching for a custom retainer online and landed on JS Dental Lab, you're not alone. The Texas-based lab has built a strong reputation in the US market — and technically, yes, they do ship to Canada. But "ships to Canada" and "worth it in Canada" are two different questions entirely.

This review breaks down exactly what Canadian buyers need to know before ordering from JS Dental Lab, how it compares to NewSmile Canada's custom retainers, and whether the extra cost and shipping friction is justified.

What Is JS Dental Lab?

JS Dental Lab is a US dental lab based in Texas that has sold direct-to-consumer dental appliances since 2016. They offer custom clear retainers, night guards, and whitening trays — all made from at-home impressions you take yourself and mail back to their lab.

They hold a 4.0 TrustScore on Trustpilot and are regularly listed in US "best retainer" roundups. NewMouth has called their night guard "the best overall pick" for US buyers who want real customization without dentist pricing. Their retainer carries the same lab quality and a notable 365-day satisfaction guarantee.

The issue for Canadians is not the product — it's the logistics and price once you cross the border.

The Canadian Problem: Pricing and Return Shipping

JS Dental Lab's custom clear retainer is listed at $149 USD. At current exchange rates, that's over $205 CAD — before you account for the return shipping complication.

When you order, JS Dental Lab sends you an impression kit. You take your impressions, then mail them back to the lab in Texas. Here's where it gets frustrating for Canadians: the prepaid return shipping label they include is for US residents only. As a Canadian customer, you are responsible for purchasing your own shipping back to their Texas lab — typically $15–$30 CAD via Canada Post or FedEx.

That brings the real Canadian cost to roughly $220–$235 CAD all-in for a single retainer. And if anything goes wrong with your impression, you repeat the process and pay again.

JS Dental Lab Retainer vs NewSmile Canada: Side-by-Side

What JS Dental Lab Does Well

The 365-day guarantee is genuinely exceptional — if your retainer doesn't fit, warps, or breaks within a year, JS Dental Lab will remake it. That's a stronger policy than most competitors, and it reflects real confidence in their lab work.

Their clear retainer is made from FDA-cleared thermoplastic and the construction quality is consistently praised in customer reviews. The process is simple: order, receive kit, take impressions, mail back, receive retainer. For US customers who've gone through it before, it's routine.

They also offer a small customization detail that some buyers appreciate — you can specify arch (upper, lower, or both) at checkout rather than being locked into a bundle.

What Doesn't Work for Canadian Buyers

Beyond the shipping and pricing issues above, there are a few other friction points worth knowing:

Customer service time zones. JS Dental Lab is based in Texas (Central Time). If you have a question about your impression quality — which they recommend emailing photos of before mailing back — you're coordinating across a cross-border communication channel. It works, but it adds friction that a Canadian company doesn't create.

No Health Canada licensing. This matters if you want your purchase to qualify under extended health benefits or a flex spending account. NewSmile Canada's products are licensed under Health Canada, which is often a requirement for benefit plan reimbursement. JS Dental Lab holds FDA clearance for the US market, which is not the same thing.

Currency and customs uncertainty. Depending on the order, Canadian buyers may encounter additional customs processing fees. This is uncommon for dental appliances but worth knowing.

Who Should Consider JS Dental Lab?

If you've already had a great experience with JS Dental Lab for a night guard and want to order a matching retainer from a lab you trust — that's a reasonable case. Their quality is real, the 365-day guarantee is meaningful, and the impression process is well-documented.

But if you're a first-time buyer comparing options, the numbers don't favour them in Canada. You'd be paying roughly $220–$235 CAD all-in for a retainer that starts at $139 CAD from a Health Canada-licensed Canadian company.

For Canadians who did their orthodontic treatment here and want a straightforward retainer replacement without cross-border logistics, NewSmile Canada makes the more practical case.

If you've already compared night guard options, our JS Dental Lab Canada night guard comparison covers that side of their product range in full detail.

FAQ

Does JS Dental Lab ship retainers to Canada?

Yes, JS Dental Lab ships their custom clear retainers to Canada. However, the at-home impression kit comes with a prepaid US return shipping label only — Canadian customers must arrange and pay for their own return shipping to the Texas lab, which typically costs an additional $15–$30 CAD via Canada Post or FedEx.

How much does a JS Dental Lab retainer cost in Canada?

JS Dental Lab's custom clear retainer is priced at $149 USD. At current exchange rates, that converts to approximately $205 CAD or more, plus the cost of Canadian return shipping for your impressions ($15–$30 CAD). The total Canadian cost is typically $220–$235 CAD.

Is JS Dental Lab licensed by Health Canada?

No. JS Dental Lab holds FDA clearance in the United States, but is not specifically licensed by Health Canada. If you're seeking a retainer that may qualify for reimbursement under a Canadian extended health or flex benefit plan, a Health Canada-licensed provider like NewSmile Canada is the more reliable option.

How does JS Dental Lab compare to NewSmile Canada for retainers?

JS Dental Lab offers a strong 365-day guarantee and well-reviewed lab quality, but costs more for Canadian buyers once exchange rates and return shipping are factored in. NewSmile Canada starts at $139 CAD on subscription, includes free impression kit return shipping, and is Health Canada licensed — making it the practical choice for most Canadians replacing a retainer.

What is the best custom retainer option in Canada?

For most Canadians, the best options are those that are Canadian-based or have strong Canadian logistics. NewSmile Canada offers custom Essix retainers from $139 CAD with no cross-border shipping friction. If you're comparing all options on cost and quality, our full retainer cost guide for Canada covers every major provider.

References

• Health Canada — Medical Device Licensing Overview
• Canadian Dental Association — Retainers
• JS Dental Lab — Trustpilot Customer Reviews