How much do invisible aligners cost?

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

How long does treatment take?

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

Are NewSmile aligners safe?

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

How do I wear and care for my aligners?

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

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

Do you offer whitening?

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

How much are replacement retainers?

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

Risks of Not Brushing with Invisalign

November 14, 2025

Written by Joanne M., Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy

✨ Quick Answer: Skipping brushing after meals can lead to bacteria buildup under aligners, increasing the risk of cavities, gum inflammation, and bad breath. Regular brushing and flossing keep your mouth clean and your NewSmile aligners safe and effective.

🌟 Why Brushing After Meals Matters with Aligners

Aligners trap food particles and plaque against your teeth. Without brushing after eating, bacteria multiply rapidly, potentially causing cavities, gingivitis, or enamel erosion.

💡 “Consistent oral hygiene ensures aligners work effectively while preventing harmful bacteria from affecting your teeth and gums.”

😬 Risks of Skipping Brushing

✅ Rapid bacteria buildup under aligners
✅ Increased risk of cavities and enamel damage
✅ Gum irritation or inflammation
✅ Bad breath and potential discoloration of aligners

😁 Benefits of Prompt Cleaning

✅ Maintains healthy gums and teeth
✅ Keeps aligners clear and odor-free
✅ Reduces risk of treatment complications
✅ Supports a confident, fresh smile throughout NewSmile treatment

🧪 How Bacteria Affect Invisalign Users

Bacteria thrive in trapped food particles and sugary residues. Over time, this can lead to plaque, tartar, and cavities beneath aligners, making proper brushing critical.

🌱 Common Issues From Bacterial Buildup

✅ White spot lesions (early enamel demineralization)
✅ Gum redness, swelling, or bleeding
✅ Persistent bad breath
✅ Potential staining of aligners

⚡ How Brushing Helps

✅ Removes trapped food and plaque before bacteria multiply
✅ Protects enamel and gum tissue
✅ Keeps aligners comfortable and hygienic
✅ Supports overall oral health during NewSmile treatment

🧠 “Brushing after every meal is the single most effective way to reduce bacterial risks while using clear aligners.”

🪥 Step-by-Step Post-Meal Brushing Routine

🦷 Recommended Routine

Remove aligners immediately after eating or drinking anything besides water.
Brush teeth thoroughly with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Floss to remove trapped food and plaque between teeth.
Rinse aligners with cold water before reinserting.
Use alcohol-free mouthwash to further reduce bacteria.
Repeat consistently for every meal or snack.

📋 Daily Checklist for Aligner Hygiene

✅ Brush at least twice daily, ideally after meals
✅ Floss once daily to remove hidden food particles
✅ Rinse aligners before reinserting
✅ Use mouthwash for added antibacterial protection
✅ Maintain overall oral hygiene for healthy teeth and gums

🥇 Tools & Tips to Reduce Aligner Bacteria

🌬️ Recommended Tools

Soft-bristle toothbrush to prevent enamel damage
Floss and interdental brushes for hard-to-reach areas
Alcohol-free fluoride mouthwash for daily use
Aligner cleaning tablets for thorough aligner hygiene
Travel hygiene kit for cleaning aligners and teeth on-the-go

✨ Extra Tips

✅ Avoid sugary drinks while wearing aligners
✅ Brush before reinserting aligners, not just rinsing
✅ Maintain routine dental check-ups for early detection of issues
✅ NewSmile aligners are designed to be hygienic and easy to clean, available across the U.S.

✨ “Consistent brushing after meals reduces bacteria, protects teeth and gums, and ensures aligners remain clear and effective.”

❓ FAQs

🦷 How quickly do bacteria build up under aligners?

Bacteria multiply within minutes if food residue isn’t removed, highlighting the importance of brushing after every meal.

⚡ Can skipping brushing once cause harm?

Occasional missed brushing is unlikely to cause permanent damage, but repeated neglect increases cavity and gum disease risks.

💧 Can rinsing with water replace brushing?

Rinsing helps temporarily but doesn’t remove plaque or prevent bacterial growth effectively.

🛡️ How can I maintain aligner hygiene on the go?

Carry a small toothbrush, travel toothpaste, floss, and a rinse bottle to clean teeth and aligners between meals.

🚀 Keep Your Smile Healthy with NewSmile

Brushing after meals prevents bacterial buildup and protects your smile during treatment. NewSmile clear aligners are comfortable, effective, and available across the U.S. to support optimal oral hygiene.