By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy
You spent months — maybe years — in braces or Invisalign. The last thing you want is to lose your results because a retainer costs too much or takes too long to arrive. That's exactly why more Canadians are skipping the orthodontist office and comparing direct-to-consumer retainer brands online.
Two names come up consistently: ClearRetain and NewSmile Canada. This guide breaks down both side by side so you can make a decision in five minutes.
Price is usually the first question — and rightfully so. Orthodontist offices in Canada routinely charge $200–$500 CAD per retainer, which adds up fast if you need both upper and lower.
ClearRetain advertises single retainers starting around $79–$99 CAD, depending on the product tier. Pricing varies by configuration (single arch vs. dual arch), and the site is primarily designed around a US audience, so CAD pricing can be inconsistent depending on when you visit.
The NewSmile Canada retainer is priced at from $139 CAD (subscription) for new customers, which includes the impression kit needed to create your custom fit. NewSmile also offers a subscription plan for ongoing retainer replacements — a practical option since most orthodontists recommend replacing your retainer every 12–18 months with regular wear.
At face value the prices are close. But what you get inside that price point differs significantly, as the sections below show.
Both brands use Essix-style clear thermoplastic — the thin, transparent retainer most people are familiar with from their orthodontist. The key differentiator is oversight and documentation.
ClearRetain offers a broad product range that includes Essix retainers, Hawley retainers, and sports-adjacent dental products. The breadth is notable, but the site provides limited detail on material thickness certifications, and there is no publicly visible Health Canada registration information. There are no video instructions for the impression kit process, and the blog/FAQ section is sparse — which matters if you run into a fitting question at 9pm on a Sunday.
NewSmile Canada is Health Canada registered and designed with input from Canadian-licensed dentists. Every retainer is reviewed against clinical standards before shipping. The Essix material used meets dental-grade specifications, and the impression kit includes step-by-step instructions — plus the NewSmile support team is available to walk you through the process if you have concerns.
For Canadians who want documented quality assurance, that Health Canada registration is a meaningful differentiator. It means the product has passed Canadian regulatory standards that a US-based or unregistered product may not have sought.
Neither brand requires a dentist appointment — that's the whole point. But the experience getting from "I ordered" to "I have my retainer" varies.
With ClearRetain, you order, receive an impression kit, take your impressions at home, mail them back, and wait for your retainer to be fabricated and shipped. The general turnaround window is several weeks from impression return, though exact timelines are not prominently displayed on the site. There are no impression tutorial videos, which can be a friction point for first-time users.
With NewSmile Canada, the impression kit ships promptly after ordering. Once NewSmile receives your completed impressions, your retainer is fabricated and ships as soon as production is complete. The process is supported by video tutorials and live customer support — reducing the chance of a rejected impression that restarts your timeline.
If you need a custom night guard in addition to your retainer — common for patients who clench or grind — NewSmile Canada handles both through the same impression-based process, so you only take impressions once.
| Feature | ClearRetain | NewSmile Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price (CAD) | ~$79–$99 CAD | $99 CAD |
| Material | Essix / Hawley options | Dental-grade Essix clear |
| Impression kit included | Yes | Yes |
| Impression video tutorial | Not available | Yes |
| Health Canada registered | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Canadian-dentist reviewed | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Subscription plan | Not available | Yes |
| Customer support | Basic FAQ | Live support + impression guidance |
A retainer that doesn't fit is useless — and the path to a replacement matters.
ClearRetain's customer support infrastructure is limited to a basic FAQ page. There is no visible blog content offering guidance on common issues like tight fits, retainer hygiene, or what to do if your impressions are rejected. If you encounter a problem, the self-serve resources are thin.
NewSmile Canada offers live customer support, a documented remission process if impressions don't pass quality review, and an active content library covering retainer care and fit questions. The subscription option also means replacement retainers are built into a regular cadence — your results stay protected without a separate ordering decision each time.
NewSmile Canada wins on every dimension that affects long-term confidence in your purchase: Health Canada registration, Canadian-dentist review, guided impression support, subscription availability, and active customer resources. The price difference between the two brands is negligible — often zero at the $99 CAD tier.
ClearRetain has a place for buyers who want a wide product range and are comfortable navigating a more self-directed process. But for the majority of Canadians who finished orthodontic treatment and want a verified, supported replacement retainer — NewSmile Canada is the cleaner choice.
Ready for a better Canadian retainer?
NewSmile Canada ships a custom Essix clear retainer from a home impression kit — no dentist visit, no waiting room. Health Canada registered and Canadian-dentist reviewed.
ClearRetain ships to Canada, but it is primarily a US-based brand. CAD pricing may fluctuate based on exchange rates, and the brand does not appear to hold Health Canada registration. Canadian buyers should factor this into their decision.
ClearRetain's entry price starts around $79–$99 CAD depending on configuration. NewSmile Canada is priced at from $139 CAD (subscription) for new customers, which includes the impression kit. At similar price points, NewSmile Canada delivers more included value: Health Canada registration, Canadian-dentist review, and full impression support.
With proper care, a well-made Essix clear retainer typically lasts 1–3 years. Most orthodontists recommend replacing retainers every 12–18 months for patients who wear them nightly. NewSmile Canada's subscription plan is designed around this replacement cycle.
Yes. Direct-to-consumer retainer brands like NewSmile Canada allow you to take impressions at home using a provided kit. You mail the completed impressions back, and your custom retainer is fabricated and shipped to your door. No dental appointment required. NewSmile Canada's process is reviewed by Canadian-licensed dentists.
NewSmile Canada ships across Canada, including British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, and all Atlantic and Prairie provinces. Your retainer ships as soon as production is complete after impressions are received and approved.
By Joanna M.
If you grind your teeth at night, you're looking at two main Canadian-shipping custom night guard options: AlignerCo Canada and NewSmile. Both skip the dentist's office ($400â$800 CAD for a dental-made guard), both use the at-home impression kit process, and both ship custom-fabricated guards directly to Canadian addresses.
The differences come down to price, material types, and what kind of grinder you are. Here's the full breakdown for Canadian buyers in 2026.
AlignerCo operates a dedicated Canadian site (alignerco.ca) and offers three distinct custom night guard types:
All three options are priced at $170 CAD with free Canadian shipping. AlignerCo takes the same home impression kit approach â you receive a kit, take impressions, mail them back, and receive your custom guard.
NewSmile's custom night guard starts at $129 CAD for their soft guard and $169 CAD for their dual-layer guard. Like AlignerCo, the process is home impressions â lab fabrication â direct shipping to your Canadian address.
NewSmile's dual-layer guard â soft inner layer, harder outer shell â is designed specifically for bruxism: the soft layer cushions the jaw, while the durable outer layer absorbs the grinding forces. This is the most common configuration recommended for moderate-to-heavy grinders.
| Feature | AlignerCo Canada | NewSmile Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price (CAD) | $170 (all types) | $129 (soft) / $169 (dual-layer) |
| Canadian shipping | Free | Direct to Canada |
| Currency | CAD | CAD |
| Guard types available | Soft, Hybrid, Hard (PETG) | Soft, Dual-layer |
| Material (hard option) | 2mm PETG, BPA-free | Dual-layer thermoplastic |
| Home impression kit | Yes | Yes |
| Lab-made | Yes | Yes |
| Dentist visit needed | No | No |
AlignerCo's hard PETG night guard is their strongest differentiator. 2mm PETG acrylic is the same material class used by dental offices for hard occlusal splints â designed to withstand intense, consistent grinding without deforming. If you've destroyed soft or hybrid guards before, or your dentist has recommended a hard acrylic guard, AlignerCo's hard option at $170 CAD is worth considering.
For moderate grinders, NewSmile's dual-layer guard at $169 CAD is a strong choice â and you save $41 CAD versus AlignerCo if you're coming in at the soft guard level ($129 vs $170).
No. The Canada Dental Care Plan (CDCP) does not cover custom night guards or occlusal splints as of 2026. The program covers exams, cleanings, fillings, and select restorative work â not removable appliances for bruxism. If you have a private employer dental plan, check your "appliances" benefit, which may cover 50â80% of the cost.
A custom night guard at a Canadian dental clinic typically costs $400â$800 CAD. Atlas Dental in Toronto, for example, charges $633 for their dental night guard. For a lab-made guard of comparable quality, AlignerCo and NewSmile both offer the same fundamental product â fabricated by a dental lab from your custom impressions â at 75â80% less than the dentist price.
The dental office adds an in-person fit check, which has value if your bite is complex or you've had prior TMJ issues. But for straightforward bruxism protection, the at-home lab model is hard to beat on cost.
Protect Your Teeth from Grinding â Starting at $129 CAD
NewSmile ships custom night guards directly to Canadian addresses, made by a certified dental lab from your at-home impressions. No dentist visit. We ship as soon as production is complete.
Yes. AlignerCo operates a Canadian site (alignerco.ca) and offers three custom night guard types â soft, hybrid, and hard PETG â all at $170 CAD with free Canadian shipping.
From at-home dental labs: $129â$170 CAD (NewSmile and AlignerCo). From a dental clinic in Canada: $400â$800 CAD. Over-the-counter boil-and-bite guards: $20â$40 CAD (not custom-fitted).
AlignerCo offers more material types (including hard PETG) and a single flat price. NewSmile has a lower entry price at $129 CAD. For heavy grinders needing a hard guard, AlignerCo is worth comparing; for most moderate grinders, NewSmile's dual-layer at $169 CAD covers the same need.
The Canada Dental Care Plan (CDCP) does not cover night guards as of 2026. Private employer dental plans may include an appliance benefit covering 50â80% of costs. Check your benefits booklet under appliances or removable appliances.
Hard guards are typically recommended for heavy grinders who clench intensely or have cracked teeth from grinding. Soft guards work well for mild-to-moderate bruxism. Dual-layer guards are the most popular compromise. Your dentist or orthodontist can advise based on your grinding severity.
Soft guards typically last 6â12 months for regular grinders. Dual-layer and hard acrylic guards can last 2â5 years with proper cleaning. Replacement via at-home lab services in Canada (NewSmile or AlignerCo) is straightforward when needed.
By Joanna M.
Chomper Labs has built a solid reputation in the US custom dental lab space. But Canadians who come across their retainer looking for an at-home option face a reality check: you're looking at a USD price, cross-border shipping, and potentially Canadian customs duties on top. Does the product justify the premium over Canadian-first options like NewSmile?
Here's a complete breakdown for Canadian buyers in 2026.
Chomper Labs is a US-based direct-to-consumer dental lab specializing in custom night guards and retainers. You order online, receive an impression kit by mail, take your impressions at home, and mail them back. The lab then fabricates your retainer and ships it to you.
Their retainer line includes two main products:
Both are priced at $169 USD, which converts to approximately $230+ CAD depending on the exchange rate, before shipping costs.
Chomper Labs does ship to Canada, but this is where costs add up for Canadian buyers:
The total landed cost for a Canadian Chomper Labs order is realistically $250â$270 CAD or higher, depending on exchange rates and shipping costs at the time of your order.
NewSmile's custom clear retainers are made by a certified dental lab and ship directly to Canadian addresses. Key differences versus Chomper Labs:
| Feature | Chomper Labs | NewSmile Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Price (CAD equivalent) | ~$230â$270 CAD landed | $99 CAD |
| Currency | USD (exchange rate risk) | CAD |
| Shipping to Canada | Cross-border (extra cost) | Direct Canadian shipping |
| Customs/duties | Possible | None |
| Material | Clear thermoplastic | Dental-grade clear thermoplastic |
| Lab made | Yes | Yes |
| Impression storage | 2 years | Check with provider |
| Trial period | 100 days | Contact for guarantee details |
Chomper Labs does one thing notably well for repeat buyers: they store your dental impressions for two years. If your retainer cracks or gets lost within that window, you can reorder without creating new impressions â just pay for the new fabrication. For heavy retainer users who expect to need replacements, this feature has real value.
Their 100-day trial with free adjustments or replacement is also a confident warranty for a lab-made product.
The cost difference is substantial. At roughly $99 CAD versus $250+ CAD landed for Chomper Labs, NewSmile is more than 60% cheaper for a comparable lab-made Essix-style retainer. For most Canadians â especially those buying a first retainer or a straightforward replacement â the cost savings outweigh the impression-storage benefit.
NewSmile also prices and ships in CAD, so there are no exchange rate surprises at checkout and no cross-border logistics complications.
Chomper Labs' retainer is an Essix-style clear thermoplastic retainer â the same general category as what NewSmile produces, and what most orthodontists prescribe for post-treatment retention. The 1mm version is comparable in thickness to a standard dentist-made Essix retainer. The 1.5mm Retainer Night Guard adds enough thickness to provide light grinding protection while still functioning as a retention appliance.
If you grind at night and need a dedicated night guard with serious thickness and durability, Chomper Labs also offers thicker night guard options â as does NewSmile with their custom night guard starting at $129 CAD.
For most Canadians looking for a custom clear retainer, the math is clear: NewSmile delivers a comparable lab-made product at less than half the landed cost. The only scenario where Chomper Labs makes more sense is if you strongly value their two-year impression storage and expect to reorder multiple times within that window.
If you're in that camp, run the numbers: even with two reorders from NewSmile at from $139 CAD (subscription) each ($198 total), you're still significantly cheaper than one Chomper Labs order at $250+ CAD.
Custom Retainers in Canada â Without the Cross-Border Cost
NewSmile ships lab-made custom Essix retainers directly to any Canadian address, starting at $139 CAD on subscription. No exchange rate risk, no customs, no dental appointment.
Yes, Chomper Labs ships to Canada, but at an additional international shipping cost. The product price is in USD, and Canadian buyers may also face customs duties on import, making the total landed cost significantly higher than the listed USD price.
The listed price is $169 USD. After currency conversion and shipping, Canadian buyers typically pay $230â$270 CAD or more for a single retainer.
NewSmile offers custom lab-made Essix retainers starting at $139 CAD on subscription, shipped directly to Canadian addresses with Canadian pricing and no cross-border fees.
International shipping timelines vary. The impression kit typically ships first, you complete impressions and mail them back, then the retainer is fabricated and shipped. Total turnaround is typically 3â5 weeks for international orders.
Chomper Labs uses professional dental lab equipment and dental-grade thermoplastic material â essentially the same manufacturing process used by dental offices. Quality is comparable to a dentist-made Essix retainer at a lower cost.
By Joanna M.
If you were an SDC customer in Canada, the closure hit differently than it did in the US. Canadian users had fewer local backup options, and the platform's abrupt exit left thousands without a replacement plan for ongoing retention. Good news: the market has matured since 2023, and there are now strong, Canadian-shipping alternatives that are â in many ways â better than SDC ever was.
Here's what you need to know about replacing your SmileDirectClub retainer from Canada in 2026.
SmileDirectClub filed for bankruptcy and ceased operations in October 2023, shutting down all Canadian SmileShops, stopping all new orders, and discontinuing retainer replacements for existing customers. If you were mid-treatment or had ongoing retainer needs, you were left without support overnight.
The closure was the result of mounting financial losses, regulatory pressure, and increasing competition from direct-to-consumer dental labs offering better pricing and quality. The good news is those competitors are now more accessible than ever from Canada.
Most former SDC users in Canada fall into one of three categories:
For all three scenarios, the at-home impression kit model â where you take your own dental impressions and mail them to a lab â is the fastest, most affordable route. All of the alternatives below use this model.
NewSmile's custom Essix retainers are made by a certified dental lab, ship directly to Canadian addresses, and start at from $139 CAD (subscription) per pair. The process is simple: order your impression kit, take impressions at home, mail them back, and receive your custom-fit retainers. No dental appointments, no waiting room.
Where NewSmile stands out for former SDC users specifically:
NewSmile also offers a custom night guard starting at $129 CAD if you also grind or clench â making it a one-stop replacement for everything SDC offered.
AlignerCo is the other big name that actively serves the Canadian market. Their clear retainers start at approximately $125 CAD with free shipping to Canada. They use BPA-free thermoplastic material and offer a straightforward impression kit process similar to NewSmile.
AlignerCo also has a .ca domain presence, which makes returns and customer service easier for Canadians than dealing with a US-only company.
Chomper Labs is a US-based dental lab that ships to Canada. Their retainer runs $169 USD (approximately $230+ CAD depending on the exchange rate), which makes them pricier than NewSmile but they offer a unique feature: they store your dental impressions for two years, making reorders instant. If you anticipate needing multiple replacements, that could save you the impression kit step down the road.
Keep in mind you'll likely pay cross-border shipping and possibly duties on top of the USD price.
If you had braces or Invisalign before SDC, your original orthodontist may have your dental records on file. A replacement Essix retainer from a dentist in Canada typically costs $200â$400 CAD â significantly more than the at-home lab options, but it includes a fit check. Worth considering if you've had significant tooth movement.
| Factor | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Canadian shipping | Avoids cross-border delays, duties, and USD pricing |
| Dental-lab made | Ensures the retainer actually fits properly â not a boil-and-bite |
| Clear pricing in CAD | No currency conversion surprises at checkout |
| Easy reordering | Retainers wear out â you'll need more within 1â2 years |
| Customer support | SDC's collapse showed what happens without it |
No. SmileDirectClub ceased all operations in October 2023. There is no active SDC presence in Canada or anywhere else. Any website claiming to sell "SDC retainers" in 2026 is not affiliated with the original company. Former SDC customers should treat their retainer replacement as a fresh start with a new provider.
Most at-home retainer providers â including NewSmile â don't require you to transfer your old records. You start fresh with a new impression kit, which captures your current dental alignment. This is actually beneficial if your teeth have shifted since SDC treatment ended, since a new impression creates a retainer that fits your teeth as they are today.
Need a Custom Retainer in Canada? Start Here.
NewSmile ships custom Essix retainers directly to Canadian addresses, made by a certified dental lab. From $139 CAD on subscription with no dentist visit required.
No. SmileDirectClub ceased all operations in October 2023 and no longer processes any orders. Canadian customers need to switch to a different provider for retainer replacements.
NewSmile offers the best combination of Canadian pricing, dental-lab quality, and direct shipping for Canadian addresses. AlignerCo is a close second with free Canada shipping.
At-home lab-made retainers start around $99â$125 CAD from online providers. Dentist-made replacements cost $200â$400 CAD per pair.
No. All at-home retainer providers include a new impression kit. You'll take fresh impressions of your current teeth, which is actually recommended since teeth can shift over time.
No. SmileDirectClub filed for bankruptcy and permanently shut down in October 2023. There are no plans for the company to resume operations in Canada or any other market.
Some private employer dental plans include a retainer appliance benefit that may cover 50â80% of the cost. The Canada Dental Care Plan (CDCP) does not cover clear retainers as of 2026. Check your plan's appliance coverage before ordering.
By Joanna M.
AlignerCo is a US-based at-home aligner brand. Canadian buyers often find that USD prices become 35-40% more expensive after conversion — making a $999 USD aligner approximately $1,370 CAD.
NewSmile is Canadian with Health Canada registered manufacturing. All pricing in CAD.
For retainer replacement, NewSmile charges $139-$199 CAD — significantly less than AlignerCo USD pricing once converted.
Custom night guards from $139 CAD, Health Canada registered.
| Feature | AlignerCo (CA) | NewSmile (CA) |
|---|---|---|
| Currency | USD (+35-40% for CA) | CAD |
| Health Canada | FDA only | Health Canada registered |
| Canadian company | No | Yes |
| Retainer (CA) | USD + exchange | $139-$199 CAD |
Canadian dental appliances priced in CAD
NewSmile — Health Canada registered, CAD pricing, retainers from $139 CAD.
AlignerCo ships to Canada but charges USD. NewSmile is Canada-based with CAD pricing and Health Canada registration.
AlignerCo USD prices become ~$1,370-$1,780 CAD after conversion. NewSmile is Canadian-priced and Health Canada registered. Retainers: NewSmile $139-$199 CAD.
By Joanna M.
Lost, cracked, or worn-out retainers are a common problem. Going back to your orthodontist for a replacement is often inconvenient and expensive — especially in Canada where wait times can stretch weeks and fees vary widely by province.
This guide covers the real cost of clear retainer replacement in Canada in 2026, what your options actually are, and how to get a quality Essix retainer without paying dental office prices.
The same clear (Essix) retainer that costs $150 CAD from an online provider can cost $400–$600 CAD at an orthodontic practice. The difference is not material quality — it is overhead.
NewSmile is the only Canadian-based at-home retainer service with a Health Canada registered manufacturing facility.
For a custom clear retainer replacement:
Replace your retainer without the dental office markup
NewSmile ships custom clear retainers across Canada from $139 CAD. At-home impressions, Health Canada registered lab, shipped as soon as production is complete.
Online clear retainer replacement in Canada costs $119–$199 CAD through services like NewSmile.
NewSmile is Canada's leading online retainer replacement service, with Health Canada registered manufacturing and CAD pricing. Orders ship to all provinces.
By Joanna M.
Teeth grinding (bruxism) affects roughly 8–10% of the adult population, and a well-fitted custom night guard is one of the most effective ways to protect your enamel, reduce jaw soreness, and prevent cracked teeth. But if you're shopping in Canada in 2026, the options can feel overwhelming — especially when many brands are US-based and quote prices in USD.
This guide breaks down three of the most popular at-home custom night guard brands available to Canadian buyers: NewSmile, Remi, and Chomper Labs. We compare price, process, material, and what Canadian consumers specifically need to consider.
Boil-and-bite guards from the pharmacy cost $20–$40 and provide a rough fit at best. A properly custom-fitted guard distributes bite force evenly across your teeth, stays in place through the night, and is thin enough that many people forget they're wearing one. If you grind hard enough to cause jaw pain or headaches, a custom guard is worth the investment.
The question is which brand to choose — and for Canadians, the country of manufacture, regulatory standing, and whether you're paying CAD or USD matters as much as the product itself.
| Feature | NewSmile (CA) | Remi (US) | Chomper Labs (US) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $139 CAD (subscription) / $199 CAD (one-time) | ~$189 USD (two guards) / $59 USD every 6 months (club) | $129–$159 USD per guard |
| Currency for Canadians | CAD — no conversion risk | USD — exchange rate applies | USD — exchange rate applies |
| Health Canada Registered | Yes | FDA cleared (US only) | Not specified for Canada |
| Impression Process | At-home impression kit | At-home impression kit | At-home impression kit |
| Guard Types | Hard 2mm dental-grade | Soft/hybrid (thin design) | Soft, hybrid, hard, ultra-thin |
| Canadian Dentist Approved | Yes | Not specified | Not specified |
NewSmile is the only brand in this comparison that operates as a Canadian company, manufactures in a Health Canada registered facility, and prices exclusively in CAD. That last point matters more than it might seem: when the CAD/USD exchange rate shifts, your Remi or Chomper Labs order suddenly costs significantly more than the listed price.
NewSmile offers two purchase paths for the custom night guard:
The guard is a 2mm hard dental-grade night guard, designed for moderate-to-severe grinders. It's custom-made from your at-home impression, covers upper teeth, and is the same specification dentists prescribe — without the $500–$900 dental office price tag.
Order the guard, receive an impression kit, take your moulds at home, mail them back in the prepaid envelope. Production ships as soon as it's complete from the lab. No dentist appointment required.
Remi is a well-known American night guard brand with a strong reputation, particularly for its subscription club model. Two guards arrive every 6 months for $59 USD — which sounds like a deal until you factor in the exchange rate.
Remi's standard two-guard package is approximately $189 USD. At the current exchange rate (roughly 1.37 CAD per USD), that comes out to approximately $259 CAD — significantly more than NewSmile's $199 CAD one-time option. Shipping to Canada may also incur additional courier or customs fees depending on the carrier used.
Remi specialises in thin, soft-to-hybrid guards. These work well for light-to-moderate grinders but may not provide adequate protection for heavy bruxers who need the durability of a hard guard. If you wake up with jaw soreness or headaches regularly, a hard guard is generally recommended by dentists over a soft one.
Remi holds FDA clearance in the United States. This does not automatically confer Health Canada registration, which is the relevant regulatory body for Canadian consumers evaluating dental devices.
Chomper Labs offers the most variety of any brand here: soft, hybrid, hard, and ultra-thin guards at $129–$159 USD each. If you have a very specific grinding pattern, the range of thickness and firmness options is appealing.
Starting at $129 USD, a Chomper Labs guard runs approximately $177 CAD at current rates — competitive with NewSmile's subscription pricing. However, there is no subscription or renewal discount for Canadian customers, and as with Remi, currency fluctuation adds unpredictability to long-term costs.
Chomper Labs is a reasonable option if you're a light grinder interested in the ultra-thin daytime guard (a niche product NewSmile doesn't offer). For moderate-to-heavy bruxers in Canada, the combination of USD pricing, no Health Canada registration, and no subscription value proposition makes it less compelling than NewSmile.
When buying a night guard in Canada, beyond the guard itself, consider:
Get a custom night guard made in Canada — from $139 CAD
NewSmile's custom hard night guard is made in a Health Canada registered facility, priced in CAD, and shipped as soon as production is complete.
For most Canadians, NewSmile's custom night guard offers the best combination of price, regulatory standing, and currency certainty. At $139–$199 CAD with no exchange rate risk, it outperforms US brands when total cost is factored in.
NewSmile charges $139 CAD (subscription) or $199 CAD (one-time). US competitors like Remi (~$189 USD) and Chomper Labs (~$129–$159 USD) effectively cost $175–$260 CAD once exchange rates are applied.
Yes. Remi ships to Canada but bills in USD. Factor in the exchange rate and potential import fees when comparing against Canadian-priced alternatives.
Chomper Labs ships internationally, including Canada. Pricing is in USD, starting around $129 USD (~$177 CAD at current rates). No subscription option for Canadian buyers is available.
NewSmile night guards are made in a Health Canada registered facility and are Canadian dentist approved. This is an important distinction for Canadians evaluating the safety and regulatory compliance of dental devices.
For moderate-to-heavy grinders, dentists generally recommend a hard night guard — it lasts longer and provides more consistent protection. Soft guards are better for light clenchers. NewSmile and Chomper Labs (hard variant) both offer hard guard options; Remi specialises in thinner, softer designs.
By Joanna M.
JS Dental Lab is one of the most recognized names in online custom dental appliances in North America. They're a direct-to-consumer dental lab based in the US with a strong track record — over a decade in business and a well-reviewed product line. They ship to Canada.
NewSmile Canada is a Canadian provider offering custom hard night guards through a home impression kit process, with pricing in Canadian dollars and domestic shipping.
Both target the same buyer: a Canadian with bruxism who wants the quality of a dental clinic night guard without the $400–$800 CAD clinic price. Here's how they compare across the factors that actually matter.
JS Dental Lab prices are listed in US dollars. Their guard lineup ranges from approximately $129–$189 USD.
After currency conversion at current rates, Canadian buyers are typically looking at $175–$260 CAD for JS Dental Lab guards, before any customs duties on US-shipped goods.
NewSmile Canada is priced in Canadian dollars from the start:
At the one-time price, NewSmile's $199 CAD sits within the JS Dental Lab range after conversion — but with the advantage of no currency friction and no cross-border customs exposure. At $139 CAD on subscription, NewSmile is clearly the better value for long-term wearers.
JS Dental Lab's hard night guard is notably 3mm thick — thicker than many competitors' standard hard guards. For heavy grinders with a history of wearing through thinner guards, that additional thickness can extend product life meaningfully. It's one of their most frequently cited differentiators in reviews from heavy bruxism sufferers.
NewSmile Canada's custom hard guard uses the hard acrylic material that dental clinics have used for bruxism management for decades. It holds its geometry under sustained grinding force and typically lasts 3–5 years with proper care. For most bruxism severity levels, NewSmile's hard guard provides equivalent protection.
Both brands use a mail-in impression kit system. Order online, take putty impressions at home (~10–15 minutes), return impressions in the prepaid mailer, receive finished guard by mail.
JS Dental Lab ships the finished guard within approximately 3 business days of receiving impressions. For Canadian customers, add the cross-border transit time — total turnaround is typically 3–4 weeks.
NewSmile Canada ships the finished guard as soon as production is complete. With domestic shipping only, Canadian customers typically receive their guard in a comparable or shorter total timeframe.
NewSmile Canada eliminates all of these variables. Pricing is in CAD, shipping is domestic, and returns stay in Canada.
Daily cleaning is essential. Never use a toothbrush — abrasive bristles scratch acrylic surfaces.
The Petal Ultrasonic Cleaner removes 99.9% of bacteria and residue from hard acrylic guards without any scrubbing. Pair with Petal Cleaning Pods for a complete routine. See our night guard cleaning guide.
Custom night guard in Canadian dollars — no conversion, no customs risk
NewSmile Canada's hard acrylic night guard is $199 CAD. Subscribe and save at $139 CAD per replacement.
Yes — JS Dental Lab ships to Canada with free standard shipping. Prices are listed in USD, and Canadian buyers may encounter currency conversion costs and potential customs duties.
JS Dental Lab's hard night guard is 3mm thick — notably thicker than many competitor hard guards, marketed toward heavy grinders who have previously worn through standard-thickness appliances.
JS Dental Lab's 3mm hard guard has a slight edge for very heavy grinders due to its additional thickness. For most people with moderate to severe bruxism, NewSmile Canada's hard acrylic guard offers equivalent protection at a lower all-in cost for Canadians.
NewSmile Canada's subscribe-and-save option at $139 CAD per guard is among the lowest prices for a professionally made custom hard night guard in Canada. See our best night guards comparison.
JS Dental Lab's hard guard typically lasts 3–5 years with daily cleaning, backed by a 1-year warranty covering cracks and breakage.
By Joanna M.
Not all night guards are made equal — and not all online custom guards are made in the same place. Seealine is a Toronto-based dental lab that markets directly to Canadian consumers, positioning itself around the "Made in Canada" angle. NewSmile Canada ships custom guards nationally through a home impression kit process.
Both aim at the same customer: someone with bruxism who wants to skip the $400–$800 dentist appointment and order a custom guard online. Here's how they actually compare.
Seealine's primary differentiator is domestic fabrication. Their guards are manufactured in their Toronto facility using medical-grade EVA material they describe as BPA-free and hypoallergenic. They cite a turnaround of as fast as 5 business days — faster than many US-based labs that add cross-border shipping time.
For some buyers, domestic production matters: no cross-border customs risk, no currency conversion, no potential delays at the border. If you've ordered from a US provider before and had a package flagged at customs, you'll understand the appeal.
The limitation: Seealine's pricing is not publicly listed. You have to submit contact information to receive their pricing. That's unusual for a consumer product in 2026, and it creates friction that makes comparison shopping harder.
NewSmile Canada's custom hard night guard is priced clearly at $199 CAD, with a $139 CAD subscribe-and-save option. No forms, no waiting for a quote, no hidden currency conversion at checkout.
The guard is a hard acrylic appliance — the material most commonly recommended by dentists for moderate to severe bruxism. It's made from a dental-lab-quality impression kit you complete at home and mail back. Production happens as soon as the lab receives your impressions, and the finished guard ships to your Canadian address.
At $199 CAD, NewSmile's night guard costs less than the typical dental clinic's lab fee alone (usually $400–$800 CAD) and gives you a genuinely custom fit — not a boil-and-bite approximation.
Seealine uses what they call "thermo-adaptive EVA" — a softer, flexible material that molds slightly to the bite. EVA guards are generally more comfortable for first-time wearers and less likely to cause initial jaw soreness. They're a good fit for lighter grinders or people who find hard guards too rigid on the first night.
The tradeoff: EVA guards tend to compress over time under heavy grinding force, and some users find them less durable than hard acrylic for moderate to severe bruxism.
NewSmile's hard acrylic guard is the material dentists have recommended for bruxism for decades. It doesn't compress or deform under grinding force, which means it maintains its protective geometry longer. For moderate to severe grinders, hard acrylic typically offers better long-term tooth protection and a longer product lifespan — usually 3–5 years with proper cleaning.
First-time hard guard wearers occasionally need a 1–2 week adjustment period. That's normal and not a sign of poor fit.
Seealine's decision to withhold pricing behind a contact form deserves direct comment. When you're comparing dental products, knowing the price before you submit personal information is a reasonable expectation. The hidden pricing model isn't unusual for B2B dental suppliers — but it creates friction for direct consumers who just want to know if it fits their budget.
NewSmile Canada's pricing is public: $199 CAD one-time, $139 CAD subscription. You can make an informed decision before entering any personal details. For the price-sensitive Canadian buyer — which is most of us — that transparency matters.
Regardless of whether you choose an EVA or hard acrylic guard, daily cleaning is essential. Never use a toothbrush — abrasive bristles scratch both EVA and acrylic, shortening the guard's life.
The Petal Ultrasonic Cleaner is compatible with both guard materials and removes 99.9% of bacteria without contact. Pair with Petal Cleaning Pods for a complete daily clean. See our full night guard cleaning guide.
Custom night guard, clear pricing, ships across Canada
NewSmile Canada's custom hard night guard is $199 CAD — no quote forms, no currency conversion. Get the same material your dentist uses, fabricated from your impressions at home.
Seealine is based in Toronto, Ontario, and manufactures their night guards domestically in Canada using medical-grade EVA material.
Seealine does not publicly list their pricing — you must submit contact information to receive a quote. NewSmile Canada's custom hard night guard is listed publicly at $199 CAD or $139 CAD on a subscription.
For moderate to severe grinding, hard acrylic is generally preferred by dental professionals because it maintains its shape under grinding force and lasts longer. EVA guards are softer and more comfortable initially, making them better suited for light grinders or first-time wearers.
Yes, when they are made from proper dental impressions. Both Seealine and NewSmile use the same materials and processes as dental offices. Dental clinics in Canada typically charge $400–$800 CAD for the same lab-fabricated product.
Yes. Both Seealine and NewSmile Canada offer home impression kits. No dentist appointment is required.
By Joanna M.
If you grind your teeth at night, you already know that a $25 boil-and-bite from the pharmacy isn’t the answer. Generic guards don’t fit properly, wear out in weeks, and can push your jaw into an unnatural bite position that makes grinding worse.
Custom-fitted night guards — made from impressions of your actual teeth — are what dentists use. You used to need an office visit to get one. Now two direct-to-consumer brands, Pro Teeth Guard and NewSmile Canada, offer the same lab-quality result through a home impression kit. No appointment, no clinic markup.
The question for Canadians: which one actually makes sense when you factor in pricing, currency, and shipping?
NewSmile Canada prices everything in Canadian dollars with no conversion required at checkout: Custom Hard Night Guard: $199 CAD (one-time) or $139 CAD with Subscribe & Save. Pro Teeth Guard’s guard prices start at approximately $169 USD — at current exchange rates, Canadian buyers are looking at approximately $230–$300+ CAD before any applicable customs duties.
Pro Teeth Guard offers four guard types: Soft, Hybrid Dual-Laminate (most popular), Hard, and Ultra-Thin Daytime. NewSmile Canada’s custom night guard is hard acrylic — the material dental clinics use for moderate to severe bruxism, fabricated in a professional dental lab from your home impressions.
Both brands use a mail-in impression kit. Order online, take putty impressions at home, mail back in the prepaid envelope, receive your guard. Pro Teeth Guard ships within 3 business days of receiving impressions. NewSmile ships as soon as production is complete.
Pro Teeth Guard: 1-year warranty + 60-day 110% money-back guarantee with covered return shipping. NewSmile Canada: satisfaction guarantee with subscription access to replacements at the subscription rate.
Never use a toothbrush — abrasive bristles scratch acrylic surfaces. The Petal Ultrasonic Cleaner removes 99.9% of bacteria without contact. Pair with Petal Cleaning Pods. See our full night guard cleaning guide.
Canada’s most affordable lab-quality night guard
NewSmile Canada’s custom hard night guard is $199 CAD — priced in Canadian dollars, no currency conversion.
Yes — Pro Teeth Guard advertises free shipping to the US and Canada. However, prices are in USD, and Canadian buyers may face customs duties on US-shipped goods. NewSmile Canada ships domestically in Canadian dollars.
For heavy grinding, a hard acrylic guard is standard — both Pro Teeth Guard’s hard guard and NewSmile Canada’s custom hard guard use comparable lab-grade materials. NewSmile is $199 CAD vs Pro Teeth Guard’s approximately $230–$260 CAD equivalent after currency conversion.
Yes — the same putty impression technology used by dental labs for clinical orders. The guard is fabricated on your actual impression, giving equivalent fit to a clinically sourced custom guard.
A properly fitted custom night guard reduces jaw muscle strain and tooth-on-tooth contact that contributes to TMJ symptoms. See our article on how to choose the best night guard.
Hard acrylic guards typically last 3–5 years with proper daily cleaning. NewSmile Canada’s subscription option is designed for this replacement cycle.
If you're grinding your teeth at night, you've probably come across both NewSmile and JS Dental Lab in your research. Both offer at-home custom night guards — but the comparison looks very different once you account for currency, shipping, and cross-border complications. This breakdown is written specifically for Canadians.
| Feature | NewSmile Canada | JS Dental Lab (USA) |
|---|---|---|
| Base price | ~$169 CAD | ~$160–$190 USD (~$215–$255 CAD) |
| Currency | CAD — no conversion | USD — exchange rate applies |
| Ships to Canada? | Yes — domestic Canadian fulfillment | Ships from USA — cross-border |
| Customs / import fees | None | Possible (CUSMA threshold applies) |
| Impression process | At-home kit included | At-home kit included |
| Guard thickness options | Soft, hard, dual-laminate | Multiple thickness levels |
| Customer support timezone | Canadian business hours | US Eastern — may lag for CA/BC customers |
JS Dental Lab prices start at approximately $160–$190 USD. At a typical 2026 CAD/USD exchange rate, that converts to roughly $215–$255 CAD — before factoring in:
NewSmile's Canadian night guard is priced at ~$169 CAD, all-in. No currency conversion, no customs surprises.
| Scenario | NewSmile CA | JS Dental Lab (to Canada) |
|---|---|---|
| Guard + shipping (base) | ~$169 CAD | ~$215–$255 CAD (converted) |
| Foreign transaction fee | $0 | ~$5–$6 CAD |
| Potential customs/brokerage | $0 | $0–$50+ CAD (variable) |
| Realistic total | ~$169 CAD | ~$220–$310 CAD |
Both brands use at-home impression kits and dental-grade materials. Neither is clinically inferior to the other in terms of raw material — the EVA and hard acrylic formulations used by both companies meet the same dental appliance standards.
For bruxism in Canada, most dentists recommend a dual-laminate or hard acrylic guard for moderate-to-severe grinders, and a soft guard for light clenching. Both NewSmile and JS Dental Lab offer these variations.
Under the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), many goods ship duty-free. However, the classification of a custom dental appliance is not always clear. Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) discretion applies. Some Canadian customers report receiving US dental lab shipments with no fees; others receive brokerage invoices of $30–$60 CAD.
If your JS Dental Lab night guard needs a remake, you're shipping internationally. With NewSmile CA, returns and remakes stay within Canada.
Regardless of which brand you choose, how you clean your night guard determines how long it lasts. Never use a manual toothbrush — abrasive action scratches the surface and accelerates bacterial colonization.
Custom Night Guard for $169 CAD — No Customs, No Conversion
NewSmile Canada delivers dental-grade custom night guards to your door. Priced in CAD, ships as soon as production is complete, with Canadian customer support. No US cross-border risk.
JS Dental Lab is a US-based company and ships internationally, including to Canada. However, orders are priced in USD and are subject to currency conversion, foreign transaction fees, and potential CBSA customs fees — making the actual CAD cost significantly higher than the listed USD price.
NewSmile Canada is consistently cheaper for Canadian buyers. At ~$169 CAD all-in versus JS Dental Lab's ~$215–$255 CAD (after conversion) plus potential customs fees, NewSmile typically saves Canadian customers $50–$100+ CAD per order.
For moderate-to-severe grinding, a dual-laminate or hard acrylic night guard is typically recommended. Both NewSmile CA and JS Dental Lab offer these options. For most Canadians, the practical choice is NewSmile due to CAD pricing and domestic shipping.
Possibly. Under CUSMA, many goods are duty-free, but custom dental appliances may be assessed by CBSA depending on declared value and classification. Outcomes vary — some shipments clear with no fees, others incur brokerage charges of $30–$60 CAD.
With proper care — including daily ultrasonic cleaning — a custom night guard typically lasts 2–5 years. Guards that are brushed with abrasive toothpaste or soaked in harsh chemicals degrade faster.
See also: How Much Does a Retainer Cost in Canada? | Retainer vs. Night Guard: Do You Need Both?
By Joanna M.
If you've just finished orthodontic treatment — or your retainer cracked at 11 p.m. on a Tuesday — you're probably searching for a fast, affordable replacement. This guide breaks down every cost tier, explains what CDCP actually covers, and shows you how Canadians are saving hundreds by ordering retainers online.
| Option | Type | Cost (CAD) | Turnaround |
|---|---|---|---|
| NewSmile (mail-order) | Essix clear retainer pair | ~$119–$129 | Ships as soon as production is complete |
| Dental office replacement | Essix or Hawley | $300–$700+ | 1–3 office visits |
| General orthodontist | Essix or bonded | $250–$600 | Appointment + lab time |
| Chain dental clinic | Varies | $200–$450 | 1–2 weeks |
Dental offices factor in chair time, overhead, and lab fees — none of which apply when you order online. A mail-order retainer uses the same dental-grade thermoplastic; the difference is delivery model, not material quality.
Most Canadians need both an upper and lower retainer. Dental offices typically price per arch ($150–$350 each), so a full set can reach $300–$700 CAD. NewSmile prices its pair as a single unit, so you're getting both arches for ~$119–$129.
The Canada Dental Care Plan (CDCP) launched in 2024 to help eligible Canadians afford preventive and restorative dental care. However, retainers are not a covered benefit under CDCP.
CDCP focuses on: examinations and X-rays, cleanings and scaling, fillings and extractions, and some denture services. Orthodontic appliances — including retainers — fall outside CDCP's scope.
Some employer group benefits include an orthodontic lifetime maximum (commonly $1,500–$3,000 CAD) that may cover a portion. Post-treatment replacement retainers are often excluded or subject to a waiting period. Check your plan's benefit booklet for exact language.
Health Spending Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) offered through Canadian employers typically do cover dental appliances including retainers as eligible medical expenses. Keep your NewSmile invoice — it works as a receipt for HSA reimbursement claims.
The most popular option post-Invisalign or clear aligner treatment. Thin, nearly invisible, and removable for eating and cleaning. These are what NewSmile makes. Average lifespan: 1–3 years with proper care.
The classic metal wire + acrylic plate. More durable than Essix but bulkier and more visible. Typically only available through dental offices in Canada.
A thin wire glued behind your front teeth. Permanent unless removed by a dentist. Cannot be replaced at home — requires professional removal and re-bonding.
Yes — for maintenance retainers. If your teeth have shifted significantly, see an orthodontist before ordering a retainer, as a retainer holds your current position rather than correcting movement.
The biggest hidden cost of retainers is replacement frequency. Never use a manual toothbrush on your retainer — bristles scratch the surface and create micro-grooves where bacteria thrive. The right approach:
Also keep retainers away from heat, store in a hard case, and rinse immediately after removing.
Get a Custom Retainer Pair for ~$119–$129 CAD — No Dentist Visit Needed
NewSmile's at-home impression kit delivers dental-grade Essix retainers to your door. No appointments, no waiting rooms — just a precise fit made from your own impressions. Ships as soon as production is complete.
Retainers in Canada range from ~$119–$129 CAD for a mail-order pair to $300–$700 CAD at a dental office. The cost depends on the retainer type and whether you use a dentist or orthodontist.
No. The Canada Dental Care Plan does not cover orthodontic retainers. CDCP covers preventive and restorative procedures like cleanings, fillings, and extractions — not post-orthodontic maintenance appliances.
Yes. Mail-order retainer services like NewSmile allow you to take impressions at home and have custom retainers fabricated and shipped to you. This is appropriate for maintenance retainers when your teeth haven't significantly shifted.
Most Essix retainers last 1–3 years with proper care. Using an ultrasonic cleaner instead of a toothbrush significantly extends lifespan.
Some employer group benefits cover retainers under an orthodontic lifetime maximum. CDCP does not. HSA and FSA accounts typically do cover dental appliances — save your invoice for reimbursement.
The most affordable option is a mail-order custom retainer pair, starting at approximately $119–$129 CAD.
See also: How Much Does a Night Guard Cost in Canada? | Retainer vs. Night Guard: Do You Need Both?
