🦷 What Are Chewies and Why Do They Matter?

Chewies are soft, cylindrical foam tools designed specifically for aligner users. They help “seat” your aligners—meaning they push the aligners fully onto your teeth to ensure proper fit and movement.

Why use them?

• Help aligners fit snugly against your teeth
• Improve tracking and reduce gaps
• Prevent discomfort caused by uneven pressure
• Boost overall treatment effectiveness

🪥 2. How to Use Invisalign Chewies the Right Way

Using chewies is easy—but like anything in your aligner routine, technique matters.

Follow these steps:

• Place the chewie between your teeth (typically back molars first).
• Bite down and hold for 3–5 seconds.
• Move the chewie along your mouth—front teeth, side to side, and back again.
• Continue for 5–10 minutes, 1–2 times a day—especially when switching to a new tray.

💆♀️ 3. Chewies = More Comfort, Fewer Surprises

You might think chewies are just for tightening the fit—but they actually help with overall comfort, too.

Benefits include:

• Even pressure across all teeth
• Less soreness from improperly seated trays
• Reduced risk of cracking or damaging trays during removal
• More predictable progress, especially mid-treatment

🧼 4. Chewie Care and When to Replace Them

Yes, your chewies need a little TLC too!

Care tips:

• Rinse them with warm (not hot) water after each use
• Let them air dry—don’t store them wet
• Replace every couple of weeks or if they start to lose shape

NewSmile recommends keeping an extra pair in your aligner case so you’re never caught off guard when switching trays on the go.

📏 Why Your Aligner Might Not Fit Properly

It’s common for aligners to feel tight at first—but when they don’t sit flush on your teeth or pop off easily, it could be a **tracking issue**.

Common causes include:

• Not wearing previous trays for the full time
• Skipping a set or switching trays too early
• Teeth moving slower than expected
• Warped trays due to hot water or improper storage

🦷 How to Check If Your Aligner Is Tracking

**Aligner tracking** refers to how well your aligners are following your teeth’s planned movements. Poor tracking can delay your treatment or cause discomfort.

Signs your aligner is not tracking:

• Visible space between the aligner and the top of your teeth (especially near the gumline)
• Tray pops out easily or doesn’t “snap” into place
• Uneven pressure or no pressure at all

Try this: Shine a flashlight through your aligner while it’s on. If you see gaps at the edges of your teeth, your aligner isn’t tracking well.

🧩 Fixing a Poor Fit: Simple Solutions First

If your aligner doesn’t fit, don’t panic—there are ways to get back on track without derailing your progress.

Try these steps:

• Use chewies 2–3 times a day for 5–10 minutes (bite down firmly to ensure aligner is fully seated)
• Wear your aligners for 22+ hours daily, no exceptions
• Revert to your previous set for a few extra days if your new one won’t go in
• Never force an ill-fitting tray—it can damage your teeth or the aligner

📞 When to Contact Support or Switch Trays

If you've followed all the above and your aligner still doesn’t fit properly, it’s time to get help. Continuing with the wrong fit can lead to poor results or discomfort.

Reach out if:

• You’ve worn chewies but still see large gaps
• You’ve tried wearing the previous tray again with no improvement
• The tray is painful or won’t stay in place

🧩 1. Yes, Aligners Can Crack—Here’s Why

While aligners from providers like NewSmile are built to be durable, certain situations can lead to a **broken aligner** or a small fracture.

Common causes include:

• Taking them out too forcefully (especially from the front)
• Biting down on hard foods while wearing them
• Grinding or clenching your teeth at night
• Improper storage (like tossing them into your bag without a case)

💪 2. How to Protect Your Aligner’s Durability

A few daily habits can go a long way in keeping your aligners in good shape:

Smart aligner care tips:

• Always remove from the back first to reduce stress on the plastic
• Store aligners in their protective case when not in use
• Avoid biting down on them intentionally—use chewies instead
• Don’t expose them to hot water which can warp or weaken them

🛠 3. What to Do If Your Aligner Cracks or Breaks

Not all damage means you need to panic. Here's what to do if you discover a crack:

If it's a hairline crack:

• You can usually continue wearing it as long as it still fits snugly and isn’t painful.

If it’s fully broken or loose:

• Switch to your next set of aligners if you're near the end of your current wear schedule.
• If it’s too early to switch, wear your previous set to maintain your progress.
• Contact your provider for next steps or a replacement aligner.

⏩ 4. When Damage Delays Treatment (and How to Avoid It)

Leaving a broken aligner in place for too long can lead to issues like:

• Poor tracking of your teeth
• Delayed treatment timelines
• Sore spots from uneven pressure

To avoid setbacks:

• Check aligners daily for cracks
• Don’t delay reporting damage
• Keep all your past aligners until your treatment is complete—they’re your backup!

🧊 Why Are My Aligners So Tight?

First things first: it’s **normal for new aligners to feel snug**. That tightness means they’re doing their job—moving your teeth into alignment.

You might find it hardest to remove your trays:

• During the first few days of a new set
• In the morning, after overnight wear
• If your aligners weren’t seated fully

Tight trays are part of the process, especially with brands like NewSmile that use precision-fit designs. Just don’t panic—you don’t need Hulk-strength to take them out.

✨ Tricks to Remove Aligners Like a Pro

Here are some smart (and safe) ways to remove aligners without damaging them—or your nails:

💡 The Twist & Slide Method:

• Use your fingertip to pull down on the inside back molar area
• Gently twist the tray off one side first
• Slide it out toward the front, then repeat on the other side

🧰 Use an Aligner Removal Tool:

• Small, hook-like tools are designed to lift trays with ease
• They’re especially helpful if you have short nails or sensitive gums

👐 Still Stuck? Try These Backup Hacks

If your aligners are still clinging on for dear life, here are some gentle hacks to loosen them:

• Rinse with **cold water** to make the plastic slightly more rigid and easier to grip
• Chew on aligner **seaters** for 2–3 minutes, then try removing again
• Use a **tissue** for extra grip on your fingers or the aligners
• Relax your jaw before removal—tense muscles make things harder!

📞 When to Get Help

While it’s rare, there are times when aligners are too tight to remove without help.

Reach out if:

• You feel **sharp pain** when trying to remove your trays
• The aligner **won’t budge** at all after multiple attempts
• You're worried about **cracking or damaging** your trays

NewSmile’s support team is just a message away if you need help troubleshooting a stuck tray or want to check if your aligner fit is normal. We're here to make your journey as smooth as your future smile.

🔍 1. Why Aligner Irritation Happens

Mild irritation during your clear aligner journey is pretty common—especially during the first few days of a new tray.

You might notice:

• A **scratchy sensation** on your tongue or inside cheeks
• **Sore spots** along your gumline
• **Tenderness** when talking or eating

Most often, these are caused by minor sharp edges or plastic overhangs that weren’t smoothed out during manufacturing. While companies like NewSmile design their aligners to follow your gumline comfortably, sometimes small adjustments are still needed for the perfect fit.

✂️ 2. Filing Tips for Sharp Edge Fixes

Good news: If your aligners have a sharp edge causing discomfort, you can usually fix it yourself—no dental appointment needed.

Here’s how to safely file your aligners at home:

• Use a clean **emery board or nail file**
• Gently **buff the sharp edge** in one direction
• Rinse with cool water and check the fit before wearing again

🧊 3. Use Dental Wax for Instant Relief

If you're feeling discomfort but not quite ready to file, **orthodontic wax** is your best friend.

How to use it:

• Clean and dry the part of the aligner causing irritation
• Roll a small piece of wax into a ball
• Press it onto the rough spot to create a smooth barrier

This quick fix is especially helpful during the first day or two of a new tray. Many NewSmile customers keep wax handy in their aligner kit—just in case.

📞 4. When to Reach Out for Help

While most irritation is minor and temporary, there are times when it’s best to get support.

Contact your aligner provider if:

• Pain lasts more than a few days
• The aligner digs into your gums or leaves sores
• Filing or wax don’t help relieve the discomfort

NewSmile’s customer care team is just a message away if you ever need help with an ill-fitting tray or want to request a replacement. You're never alone in your treatment journey.

🕐 First Week? That’s Normal

That initial snug feeling during the first week is actually a good sign. Your clear aligners are beginning the gentle process of moving your teeth into better alignment. The fit may feel especially **tight** in the first 1–3 days after putting in a new tray.

What to expect:

• Minor pressure or soreness (especially when removing trays)
• A “tight” feeling as your teeth shift
• Slight difficulty inserting or removing aligners at first

🔁 Mid-Treatment Pressure: A Sign of Progress

Even after a few months, you might feel tightness when switching to new trays. This is still a sign that your aligners are working as they should. Each new set is designed to move your teeth slightly closer to their ideal position.

You may notice:

• Certain teeth feel more pressure than others
• Some aligners slide in more easily than others
• Pressure lasts for just a few days

⚠️ When Tightness = Trouble

Tightness isn’t always routine. There are a few red flags to watch out for:

Potential issues:

• Severe pain when biting down
• Aligners don’t sit flush against your teeth (visible gaps)
• You skipped a tray or wore one for too short a time

👩⚕️ In these cases, don’t force it—contact NewSmile’s support team for guidance on what to do next. It might be time for a refinement or to repeat a tray.

😌 How to Handle Tight Aligners Like a Pro

Whether it’s your first tray or your fifteenth, there are simple ways to manage the tight feeling without derailing your treatment.

Try these tips:

• Warm compress on your jaw for relief
• Cold water rinse to numb discomfort
• Switch trays at night so you sleep through the adjustment
• Stay on schedule—don’t skip days

And remember: consistent wear leads to less discomfort over time. Trust the process—your future smile is worth it.

👄 Why Some People Notice a Temporary Lisp

Let’s get honest: any time you put something in your mouth that covers your teeth (like aligners or retainers), your tongue has to adapt. That adjustment period can result in a slight **lisp**, especially with sounds like "S," "Z," and "Sh."

This happens because:

• Your tongue is used to touching your teeth in a specific way when forming sounds
• Retainers subtly change that contact point
• Your brain just needs a little time to recalibrate

But here’s the good news: most people adjust in just a few days. And with ultra-slim retainers like those from NewSmile, that adjustment is even easier—because they’re designed to fit like a second skin over your smile.

🗣️ Easy Ways to Sound Like Yourself Again

Want to speed up that tongue-brain coordination? These simple tricks can help you regain your natural sound faster:

• **Read aloud:** Try reading a page or two of your favorite book or blog out loud each day
• **Practice tongue twisters:** Yep, they’re not just silly—they help your mouth adapt faster ("She sells sea shells..." works wonders)
• **Record yourself:** Hearing your own voice helps you identify which sounds feel off
• **Keep your retainers in when you talk:** Avoid the temptation to remove them—your mouth learns faster by wearing them consistently

Think of it like breaking in new shoes. The more you wear them, the more natural it feels. Pretty soon, you won’t even remember they’re in.

🧐 When a Lisp Might Mean a Bad Fit

A little lisp at first? Normal. A constant, uncomfortable one that never goes away? Time to take a closer look.

You might need a **refit** if:

• The lisp sticks around after 1–2 weeks
• Your retainer feels bulky or pinches
• One side clicks in tighter than the other
• It shifts when you talk or doesn't sit flush with your teeth

🎤 Speaking Confidently in Meetings, Zooms, and Date Nights

Here’s the thing: most people don’t even notice if you sound a little different with your retainers in. Seriously. You’re way more aware of it than anyone else is.

But if you want that extra boost of confidence:

• **Warm up before big calls:** Say a few tongue twisters or talk to yourself while making coffee
• **Sit up straight:** Posture helps breath control and articulation
• **Hydrate often:** Dry mouth makes any speech quirks worse
• **Smile while you talk:** Not only does it relax your jaw, but it also helps project confidence—even on screen

And if you’re meeting someone new (or giving a presentation), just know this: showing up with a confident smile says more than a perfectly pronounced “S” ever will.

🧳 What to Pack to Keep Your Retainer Safe and Clean

Your clear retainers may not take up much space, but a few thoughtful travel items can make all the difference:

• ✔️ **Retainer case** – Always the #1 must-pack. NewSmile’s case is compact, durable, and modern enough to toss in your carry-on or tote without feeling clunky. Bonus: it keeps your retainers protected from mystery purse crumbs.
• ✔️ **Travel toothbrush + gentle cleanser** – A mini brush and a travel-size, fragrance-free soap or cleanser (or retainer wipes!) are perfect for quick refreshes on the go.
• ✔️ **Small towel or cloth** – For drying your retainers before putting them back in. Avoid wrapping them in napkins—they will get thrown out.
• ✔️ **Distilled water or a rinse bottle** – Especially helpful for plane rides when bathroom access is limited.

😬 What to Do If You Lose It While You’re Away

We’ve all had that moment: you’re halfway through dinner when you realize you left your retainer in a napkin. Or worse—it’s not in your bag at all.

If you lose your retainer mid-trip:

• **Don’t panic** – A day or two without it likely won’t undo all your progress. But the sooner you get a replacement, the better.
• **Keep your teeth clean** – Brush regularly and floss daily to avoid plaque buildup.
• **Reach out to your provider** – If you're a NewSmile customer, you can easily order a replacement retainer online—no office visit or awkward phone call required.
• **Try to wear your last aligner tray** – If you're still in treatment, this can help prevent shifting temporarily.

Losing a retainer on vacation isn’t ideal—but it’s fixable. Just act quickly and stay consistent when you return home.

🧼 Hotel + Plane Hygiene Tips

Let’s talk clean. Your retainer spends a lot of time in your mouth, so keeping it fresh while traveling is non-negotiable.

On flights:

• Pop it out discreetly before meals (bring a napkin and your case)
• Avoid setting it directly on trays or counters—always use your case
• Rinse with bottled or distilled water if you don’t trust the airplane sink

In hotels:

• Use the sink, but avoid soaking in hotel glasses
• Dry it completely before storing
• Don’t leave it near vents or windows—extreme heat can warp the plastic

With NewSmile’s slim and breathable retainer case, you can avoid moisture buildup and keep things travel-hygienic, even when your routine’s a little off.

💼 Travel Cases That Are Cute and Practical

Functionality doesn’t have to look boring. Whether you’re throwing it into your weekender or organizing your airport pouch, these case must-haves will keep your retainer stylishly safe:

• **Hard shell** – Keeps your retainer from getting crushed by your dry shampoo bottle
• **Ventilation holes** – Helps prevent odor-causing bacteria buildup
• **Slim profile** – So it fits in your tote, crossbody, or even a pocket
• **Neutral or aesthetic color** – Because your travel accessories should match your vibe, not clash with it

NewSmile’s included case checks every box—sleek, secure, and chic enough to live next to your mini perfume and lip balm. No one needs to know it’s holding your retainer.

🦷 How Retainers Work (and What They Don’t Do)

Let’s start with the basics: clear retainers are designed to **hold your teeth in place, not move them.** Once your orthodontic treatment ends (whether with braces or aligners), your retainer’s job is to preserve your smile—not adjust it further.

Think of retainers like a freeze-frame for your smile:

• ✅ They maintain alignment
• ❌ They don’t actively move teeth
• ❌ They can’t reshape bones or facial muscles

So if you're noticing changes in your face after you start wearing your retainers, it’s likely the result of your **orthodontic treatment**—not the retainer itself.

👀 The Truth About Facial Changes After Braces

Now, this part is real: orthodontic treatment—especially when done during your teen or young adult years—can **slightly alter facial structure.** That’s because moving your teeth and adjusting your bite can subtly influence the way your lips, jawline, and profile appear.

Here are a few changes people often notice post-treatment:

• **More defined jawline** from corrected bite positioning
• **Fuller lips** due to forward movement of the teeth
• **Balanced facial symmetry** from aligning crossbites or overbites

But these changes usually happen **during treatment**—not afterward. Once you’ve moved into the retainer phase (hello, NewSmile fam), your facial structure should stay relatively stable.

So, if you’re rocking a new side profile or noticing cheekbone vibes you didn’t see before, congrats—those are the results of great orthodontic planning.

😌 When to Worry—And When to Chill

Okay, so what if your face does feel a little different while wearing your retainers?

Here’s when to keep it **chill:**

• Your retainer feels **snug or tight** (this is normal for the first few hours after putting it in)
• You notice a bit of **puffiness or pressure** around your mouth (it usually fades quickly)
• Your bite feels **slightly different** post-treatment (a natural part of adjustment)

But if you’re experiencing any of these:

• **Pain or pressure** that lasts for days
• Your retainer **doesn’t fit properly or is warping**
• You feel like your teeth are **shifting even with consistent wear**

🌟 Why Everyone’s Results Look a Little Different

Here’s the thing: no two smiles—or faces—are the same. Your facial structure, bone density, genetics, and even posture can affect how your smile fits into your face after treatment.

That’s why your results might look totally different from your best friend’s, even if you both used clear aligners or wore retainers from the same provider.

And honestly? That’s the beauty of it.

The goal of your retainer—especially a slim, crystal-clear one from NewSmile—is to **preserve your unique smile** and keep your post-treatment look consistent and secure. Not to change you. Not to sculpt your face. Just to hold onto the work you’ve already done.

🌙 Why Overnight Wear Is Non-Negotiable (Sorry!)

Let’s get the tough love out of the way: wearing your retainers at night is **essential** to prevent your teeth from shifting. After months of aligners or braces, your teeth want to move back to where they were. Retainers are the invisible heroes that gently hold everything in place while you sleep.

In the first few months post-treatment, your teeth are especially impressionable. Skipping even a couple nights can cause subtle changes—ones that might require another round of aligners (no thanks).

🛁 Making Your Retainer Part of Your Wind-Down Routine

Wearing your retainer doesn’t need to feel clinical. In fact, with the right setup, it becomes a natural part of your nighttime flow.

Here’s how to blend it into your wind-down routine:

• **Right after brushing:** Keep your retainers nearby and make it the final step after brushing and flossing
• **Pair it with something relaxing:** A candle, a playlist, or your nighttime affirmation ritual
• **Keep it cute:** NewSmile’s retainer case is minimalist and sleek—leave it on your vanity or nightstand as a reminder
• **Set a gentle reminder** on your phone if you’re just getting started

😴 What to Do If It Feels Uncomfortable While Sleeping

If your retainer feels tight, pokey, or just… not right—it might be trying to tell you something.

Here’s how to handle the discomfort:

• **A little snug?** That’s normal—especially if you skipped a night. It should ease within an hour or two
• **Feeling pain or sharp edges?** Remove it and check for cracks or warping. If it’s damaged, it’s time to replace it
• **Excess drooling or mouth dryness?** Totally common at first. Your body will adjust after a few nights
• **Still uncomfortable after a week?** Reach out to your provider. If you’re with NewSmile, their support team is super responsive and can help with a replacement or fit check

💦 The Best Nighttime Cleaning Habits

Let’s keep it fresh, literally.

Before you pop in your retainers each night, give them a quick clean to prevent bacteria buildup and keep them feeling brand new.

Here’s a simple + aesthetic routine:

• Rinse under **lukewarm water**
• Brush gently with a **soft toothbrush** (no toothpaste—it's too abrasive!)
• Once a week: soak in a **retainer-safe cleaning tablet** or use a gentle white vinegar + water soak
• Air dry in your case during the day

NewSmile retainers are designed to be ultra-clear and comfortable, so a little TLC goes a long way in keeping them as invisible as the day you unboxed them.

🕒 The Average Lifespan of a Clear Retainer

On average, most clear retainers last between **6 to 12 months**—sometimes a bit longer with proper care.

Here’s why they don’t last forever:

• They’re made of thin, flexible plastic, not built for a lifetime
• Daily wear, pressure, and cleaning slowly wear them down
• Over time, they can stretch, warp, or develop tiny cracks
• They lose the snug “memory” fit needed to hold your teeth in place

If you’re using clear retainers from NewSmile, you’ll notice they’re built with comfort and durability in mind. Still, even high-quality retainers need a refresh to stay effective.

🚩 Signs It’s Time to Say Goodbye to Your Current One

Not sure if your retainer’s just “used” or officially done? Here are the **red flags** to look for:

• It feels **loose** or doesn’t sit snugly on your teeth anymore
• You notice visible **cracks, rough edges, or warping**
• There’s a **cloudy or yellowed appearance** that doesn’t go away with cleaning
• It has a **persistent smell**, even after rinsing
• You wake up with **shifting or sore teeth**—a sign it’s no longer holding position

Sometimes the change is subtle, but trust your gut—if it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

💫 How to Keep Yours in Top Shape for Longer

Want to make your retainer last the full stretch—and maybe a little extra? Here’s how:

• **Rinse it** every time you remove it
• **Clean it daily** with lukewarm water + soft toothbrush (no toothpaste!)
• **Deep clean weekly** using gentle, retainer-safe solutions
• **Store it in a case**—never loose in a napkin or pocket
• **Avoid heat**—don’t leave it in a hot car, near windows, or under hot water

NewSmile’s sleek, ventilated case makes storage feel intentional—not like an afterthought—and helps your retainers stay fresh and protected on the go.

🔁 What to Do If It Breaks, Cracks, or Vanishes

Accidents happen. If your retainer cracks, snaps, warps, or disappears into the abyss:

• **Stop wearing it immediately** if it feels sharp or no longer fits properly
• **Reach out to your provider ASAP** to get a replacement
• If you're with NewSmile, you can order a new clear retainer directly from your account—no waiting room necessary

✅ When a Tight Fit Is Totally Normal

Here’s the good news: sometimes, tightness just means your retainer is doing its job.

Clear retainers, like the ones from NewSmile, are designed to hold your teeth exactly where they should be. If you’ve gone a day or two without wearing them—or wore them less than usual—the retainers may feel tight as they gently guide your teeth back into position.

This type of pressure is often described as “snug” or “firm,” but not painful. It typically goes away within a few hours to a day, as your teeth readjust.

🦷 How to Tell If Your Teeth Are Shifting

Not all tightness is harmless. If your retainer feels painfully tight or like it’s barely fitting, it might be more than just a skipped night.

Here are a few subtle signs that your teeth may be shifting:

• Your bite feels slightly “off” or misaligned
• One side of your retainer feels tighter than the other
• The tray doesn’t sit flush with your teeth or clicks when you wear it
• You notice small gaps or crowding that weren’t there before

This can happen if you’ve missed several days (or weeks) of wear, or if you’ve been inconsistent with nighttime use.

If you’re using clear retainers from NewSmile, they’re custom-fit to your most recent smile shape. A shift might mean it’s time to check in and see if you need a new set or a refinement plan.

🚨 Warning Signs That It’s Time for a Check-In

Sometimes, tightness isn’t just an adjustment—it’s a signal.

Here’s when to reach out to your provider (or NewSmile's support team):

• You can’t fully seat the retainer anymore
• You feel pressure that lasts more than 48 hours
• Your retainer cracked, warped, or no longer aligns properly
• You hear clicking, feel pain, or see changes in your bite

If you’re in a NewSmile plan, their team can help you troubleshoot and get a replacement retainer or guide you through your next step. (And yes—fast support matters when your teeth are on the move.)

✨ Tips to Reduce Discomfort Without Skipping Wear

Tight retainers can feel annoying—but skipping them altogether can make it worse. Here’s how to wear them comfortably:

• Pop them in before bed so the adjustment happens while you sleep
• Use cold water rinses before inserting them to ease inflammation
• Avoid hard or crunchy foods if your teeth feel sore
• Massage your gums gently with a toothbrush or your finger
• Stay consistent—the more you wear them, the easier it gets

Also, be sure to clean your retainers regularly (NewSmile includes easy-care instructions) to avoid added pressure from buildup or debris.