How do aligner chewies help your teeth straightening treatment?

Aligner Chewies, also known as Ortho ease chewies, are small, cylindrical, and soft dental accessories made of a special type of plastic material. These chewies aid in the proper fitting of clear braces over teeth. Patients are required to bite down on the chewies for a few minutes daily to ensure the aligners sit snugly and comfortably.

It is suitable for individuals undergoing teeth straightening treatment with clear aligners. They are typically recommended by orthodontists to improve aligner fit and effectiveness.

The main advantage of using the chewies is to ensure that the clear aligners apply consistent pressure on teeth. By doing so, it will help the aligners to work effectively in repositioning teeth over time.

What are the benefits of using aligner chewies?

Using ortho chewies brings several advantages to your clear braces treatment journey. These include:

• Enhanced Aligner Fit: Ortho ease Chewies help in achieving a more precise fit of the aligners, which is vital for successful teeth movement.
• Accelerated Treatment: Regular use of chewies can potentially speed up the teeth straightening process by ensuring optimal aligner placement.
• Reduced Discomfort: Patients often experience minimal discomfort during treatment, and chewies contribute to a more comfortable experience.
• Improved Oral Hygiene: Aligner chewies aid in aligner seating, reducing the likelihood of food particles getting trapped between aligners and teeth.

Will aligner chewies have any side effects?

Invisalign Chewies are generally well-tolerated and have minimal side effects. Some patients may experience mild jaw soreness initially, which usually subsides with regular use.

How to use aligner chewies?

Ensure the aligners are clean and dry before placing them over your teeth. Confirm that the aligners cover all teeth completely and fit comfortably.

1) Using Aligner Chewies Correctly – Take one aligner chewie and hold it between your front teeth. Gently bite down and move the chewie from side to side, applying pressure to the aligners on each tooth’s surface.

2) Applying Gentle Pressure – As you bite down on the chewie, the soft material compresses, exerting gentle pressure on the aligners. This pressure helps the aligners fit securely against the teeth, ensuring they are in the correct position for effective tooth movement.

3) Frequency of use – Use aligner chewies for about 5-10 minutes, two to three times a day, especially after inserting a new set of aligners. Consistent use helps settle the aligners into their proper position, promoting optimal orthodontic results.

How should you clean chewies for clear aligners?

You can use a chewie until it becomes worn out so proper cleaning of aligner chewies is essential to maintain hygiene and ensure effective orthodontic treatment. Follow these steps to clean chewies effectively:

• Regular Rinsing: After each use, rinse the chewie with water to remove any debris or particles.
• Use Mild Soap: Occasionally, use a small amount of mild soap or liquid hand soap to clean the chewie. Gently rub the soap over the chewie’s surface and rinse thoroughly with water.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Refrain from using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on the chewie, as they may damage the material.
• Replace If Worn Out: Over time, chewies may lose their elasticity or become worn out. Replace the chewie when it shows signs of wear to ensure optimal effectiveness.
• Store in a Clean Place: When not in use, store the chewie in a clean and dry location to avoid contamination.

Can you reuse Invisalign chewies?

Yes. You can reuse aligner chewies until they become ineffective or lose their elasticity. 

In the meantime, you should not reuse the chewies excessively because they cannot apply pressure like earlier. Likely, it may raise hygiene concerns, as they can accumulate bacteria and debris with multiple uses.

Hence it is better to clean your chewies properly and replace them once you notice the appliance is distorted.

Bottom line

Aligner chewies play a vital role in orthodontic treatment with clear aligners, aiding in proper aligner seating and enhancing treatment results. They ensure consistent pressure application, improving aligner fit and tooth movement efficiency. While chewies don’t directly shorten treatment time, their regular use contributes to successful orthodontic solutions.

By incorporating chewies into your daily routine and following your orthodontist’s instructions, you can maximize the benefits of clear aligner treatment and achieve a confident, beautiful smile.