April 09, 2025
Wearing retainers after orthodontic treatment is essential to keep your teeth from shifting back. Whether you’ve just finished aligner therapy or had braces removed years ago, a quality retainer helps maintain your smile. Two popular options are NewSmile and ClearRetain, both of which offer custom-fit, at-home retainers. While both providers prioritize convenience and comfort, there are some key differences worth considering.
Feature | NewSmile Retainers | ClearRetain Retainers |
---|---|---|
Purchase Model | One-time purchase or optional annual subscription | One-time purchase |
Top & Bottom Included | Available individually or as a set | Available individually or as a set |
Shipping | Free shipping included | Shipping fees may apply depending on location |
Impression Kit | Included in purchase | Included in purchase |
Whitening | Not included with retainer purchase | Not included |
Subscription Option | Yes – annual retainer replacement subscription | No subscription available |
NewSmile stands out for offering an optional annual retainer subscription, which is ideal for those who want peace of mind with regular replacements. ClearRetain, on the other hand, operates with a one-time purchase model, making it flexible for those who don’t need frequent replacements.
Both NewSmile and ClearRetain create retainers from custom impressions of your teeth:
NewSmile: Uses an impression kit to create snug, comfortable retainers tailored to your smile. Designed for durability and daily wear, NewSmile retainers are a good fit for those who want a simple and affordable maintenance solution.
ClearRetain: Offers retainers made from durable, medical-grade plastic with a focus on a slim, nearly invisible design. Their clear retainers are known for a precise fit and are well-suited for both upper and lower teeth.
Both brands use strong materials to ensure long-lasting wear, though retainer lifespan can vary based on care and daily use. NewSmile offers the option to proactively replace retainers annually through its subscription, reducing the worry of wear-and-tear over time. ClearRetain users can purchase replacements as needed.
NewSmile: Customer service is available Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM PST. The company provides ongoing support for ordering, tracking, and retainer replacement requests. The subscription model adds a layer of convenience for users who want automatic annual replacements.
ClearRetain: Known for reliable service and good turnaround times, ClearRetain offers customer support through email and phone. While they do not offer a subscription, their responsive team is helpful for reorders and impression kit guidance.
NewSmile: Offers an optional annual subscription that provides a new retainer each year. This is a great solution for those prone to losing or damaging their retainers.
ClearRetain: Retainers can be reordered any time, though users need to retain their molds or impressions or redo the kit if needed.
Choose NewSmile if you want:
An annual retainer subscription for regular replacements
Free shipping and impression kit included
A straightforward, hands-off option for maintaining your smile
Choose ClearRetain if you prefer:
A flexible, one-time purchase approach
A slim, durable retainer with professional fit
A straightforward reorder process without a subscription
Customer Care (toll free):
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Support: 1 (888) 231-7725
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