If you’re on a clear aligner treatment journey (or thinking about starting one), you’ve probably heard of chewies. These might look unassuming but trust us, they’re about to become your VIP during treatment.
So, what exactly are chewies, why do we love them so much at Urban Smile, and how can they help you get the most out of your clear aligners?
First up: what are chewies?
Chewies are soft, spongy cylinders made of a safe, flexible material called medical-grade silicone. They’re included in your aligner kit when you start your clear aligner treatment at Urban Smile.
Their job? Helping your aligners fit better by eliminating air gaps between your teeth and the aligner trays. The more snug the fit, the more effective your aligners can be at moving your teeth into place.
Why do I need chewies?
Sometimes when you change to a new set of aligners, you might notice that they don’t sit perfectly on your teeth straight away, especially in tricky areas where your teeth are moving more significantly.
That’s where Chewies come in.
Biting down on them helps your aligners “seat” properly over each tooth. Think of it as giving your trays a little nudge into position. It also means your aligners are applying consistent pressure exactly where they need to, so your teeth can move efficiently.
Chewies can also help reduce any discomfort when switching to a new set of aligners.
How do I use Chewies?
Once you place your clear aligners in, bite down on a chewie gently but firmly. Hold it there for 5 seconds before moving to the next tooth. Be sure to focus on any areas where your aligners aren’t quite clicking into place, especially your molars or any teeth undergoing bigger movements.
We recommend using your chewies for 5 to 10 minutes a day, after putting your aligners back in, but especially when starting a new set of aligners.
Tip: You can even use chewies while watching TV, scrolling social media, or doing your skincare routine.
When should I use chewies?
Here’s when we recommend reaching for your chewies:
- When starting a new set of aligners
- If you notice any gaps between your aligners and your teeth
- After putting your aligners back in (especially after meals)
- Before your Dental Monitoring scan
The more consistent you are with using chewies and fitting your aligners snugly, the more efficient your treatment can be.
Can I get more chewies if I lose them?
Absolutely. You’ll always receive enough chewies for your entire treatment in your Urban Smile clear aligner kit, but if you misplace a few or want some extras, you can purchase some more in the studio, just ask our friendly team
They’re small, but seriously powerful. Chewies are one of the easiest ways to keep your clear aligner treatment on track—and make sure every tray fits like a glove.
Got more questions about how clear aligners work? Or want to know if they’re right for you? Book your free consultation at Urban Smile and let’s chat!