Learn how to pack, protect, and use your electric toothbrush while traveling. Keep your smile healthy and your brush in perfect condition anywhere you go.

Learn why retainers can cause inflamed gums and how to prevent irritation with proper cleaning, care, and orthodontic guidance.

The choice between Invisalign Retainers vs NewSmile can be a daunting task. With both brands offering effective solutions for achieving straighter teeth, it's important to understand their differences in cost, treatment approach, and effectiveness. This article will provide a detailed comparative analysis of both options to help you decide which clear aligner is best for you.

Invisalign Retainers vs NewSmile: An Overview

Understanding Invisalign

Invisalign is a well-established brand in the clear aligner market. It uses advanced technology to create a custom treatment plan tailored to your specific orthodontic needs. Invisalign aligners are made from a patented material called SmartTrack, which allows for a comfortable and effective fit. The treatment often requires multiple visits to a certified orthodontist to monitor progress and make adjustments.

NewSmile at a Glance

In contrast, NewSmile offers an at-home alternative that is more affordable and convenient for users. It provides clear retainers that are designed based on an impression kit you complete at home. While NewSmile’s aligners are generally more budget-friendly, they may not provide the same level of personalization and oversight as Invisalign.

Cost Comparison: Invisalign vs NewSmile

When it comes to price, both clear aligner brands differ significantly. Here's a breakdown of the costs associated with each:

• Invisalign Vivera: retainers can cost anywhere from £350 to £700, depending on the complexity of your case and geographic location.
• NewSmile: retainer pricing is only £139 when you subscribe and save, making it a more economical choice for many users.

Payment Options

Both companies offer financing options, but the terms may vary. NewSmile provides a structured payment plan, enabling users to manage the costs more easily. Invisalign's payment plans are also available through participating orthodontists, but they might require more upfront payments.

Treatment Duration and Process

The treatment duration can also differ between Invisalign and NewSmile:

• Invisalign: Treatment usually takes between 12 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of your dental issues.
• NewSmile: Typically less than 6 months for mild to moderate cases, making it an appealing option for those seeking faster results.

Consultation and Monitoring

With Invisalign, you will have regular consultations with your orthodontist, who will monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments. NewSmile, on the other hand, operates primarily online with minimal in-person contact. This might make NewSmile suitable for individuals who prefer a more flexible approach and are comfortable managing their treatment without constant professional oversight.

Effectiveness of Clear Aligners

Both Invisalign and NewSmile can effectively straighten teeth, but their suitability may depend on the specific dental issues you want to correct.

Complex Cases

Invisalign is known for successfully treating a wide range of orthodontic problems, including severe crowding, gaps, and complex bite issues. It uses advanced 3D imaging and tailored plans to ensure optimal results.

Moderate to Mild Cases

NewSmile excels with mild to moderate orthodontic issues, focusing on spacing, minor crowding, and basic alignment. It is an excellent option to achieve straighter teeth for those whose problems aren’t too complex.

Customer Experience and Support

Customer service can significantly influence your treatment experience. Here's what to expect from both brands:

• Invisalign: Patients receive dedicated support from their orthodontist throughout the treatment process.
• NewSmile: Offers online support and resources, making it convenient for users who prefer at-home care.

User Feedback

Feedback from users of both aligners indicates generally positive experiences, but the level of satisfaction often correlates with the complexity of their cases. Those with straightforward requirements often report success with NewSmile, while more intricate issues may benefit from the superior monitoring that Invisalign provides.

Conclusion: Choosing Your Aligner

In summary, if you're weighing Invisalign Retainers vs NewSmile, your decision should hinge on your specific orthodontic needs, budget, and preference for treatment involvement. If you need extensive oversight and have complex dental issues, Invisalign might be the right path for you. For those seeking a budget-friendly option for mild to moderate corrections, NewSmile offers a compelling solution. Both options have merit, so take the time to evaluate your personal needs and consult with dental professionals if necessary.

To learn more about how these options can help you achieve a straighter smile, explore each brand's offerings thoroughly.

Keep it clear, clean, and comfortable — every night.

If you wear a clear night guard to protect your teeth from grinding or clenching, you already know it’s a smart investment in your long-term dental health. But like anything you use daily, your night guard needs the right care to keep it working — and looking — its best.

From preventing yellowing to knowing when it’s time to replace it, here’s your go-to guide on how to clean and maintain your clear night guard properly.

Daily Cleaning Tips for Longevity

Cleaning your night guard only takes a minute — but that minute makes a huge difference.

Daily routine:

• Rinse your guard immediately after removing it in the morning. Use lukewarm (not hot!) water to avoid warping.

• Use a soft toothbrush (not your regular one) to gently scrub the surface with clear, unscented soap or mild dish soap.

• Let it air dry completely on a clean towel or in a ventilated case to prevent bacteria buildup.

💡 Pro tip: Avoid toothpaste — many contain abrasives that can scratch and cloud your guard.

Do’s and Don’ts of Night Guard Care

Here's how to get the most out of your clear night guard:

✅ DO:

• Clean it daily

• Store it in a ventilated case (not airtight)

• Soak it weekly in a denture-cleaning tablet or a vinegar/water mix

• Wash your case regularly too

❌ DON’T:

• Use hot water or put it in the dishwasher

• Use mouthwash or alcohol-based cleaners (they can dry out or discolor it)

• Skip cleaning for more than a day

• Leave it in direct sunlight or a hot car

If your clear guard is from NewSmile, it’s made from high-quality materials — but it still needs care to maintain its clarity and structure over time.

How to Prevent Yellowing and Odors

Over time, even the clearest night guard can develop discoloration or odors — but these are mostly preventable with proper upkeep.

To prevent yellowing:

• Avoid eating or drinking (especially coffee or wine) while wearing your night guard

• Store it dry — bacteria thrives in moist, enclosed environments

• Deep clean once a week with a non-abrasive tablet soak

To prevent odors:

• Brush your guard thoroughly with mild soap

• Rinse well before AND after each use

• Never leave it sitting in water all day

When to Replace Your Guard

A well-maintained night guard can last anywhere from 6 months to 3 years, depending on how heavily you grind and how well you care for it.

Signs it’s time for a replacement:

• Cracks or splits in the material

• Warping or changes in fit

• Cloudy or yellowed appearance that doesn’t come clean

• Unusual odors, even after cleaning

• Jaw pain or new tooth sensitivity

If you purchased your clear night guard from NewSmile, you can easily reorder using your saved impressions — no need to redo the process unless your teeth have changed.

🛒 Order a replacement or your first custom-fit night guard here →

Final Thoughts: Clean Night Guard, Clean Sleep

Your clear night guard is your first line of defense against grinding-related damage. A little daily care goes a long way in keeping it — and your smile — in top shape.

By keeping your guard clean, dry, and replaced when needed, you’ll ensure it lasts longer, stays fresher, and continues doing its job while you sleep peacefully.

Ready to start fresh with a high-quality, custom-fit clear night guard?
Check out NewSmile’s custom guard here — easy to order, made in pro dental labs, and delivered right to your door.

Nail biting, also known as onychophagia, is a common habit that affects individuals of all ages. While often a subconscious behavior triggered by stress, anxiety, or boredom, nail biting can lead to cosmetic concerns, damage to the nails and surrounding skin, and even dental issues. Retainers, commonly used in orthodontic treatment, have emerged as a potential tool for breaking the habit of nail biting. In this article, we'll explore the relationship between retainers and nail biting, the effectiveness of using retainers to modify behavior, and strategies for overcoming this persistent habit.

1. Understanding Nail Biting:

Nail biting is a compulsive behavior characterized by the repetitive biting or chewing of the nails, cuticles, or surrounding skin. While often considered a harmless habit, chronic nail biting can lead to a range of consequences, including nail infections, damaged teeth, and embarrassment or self-consciousness about the appearance of the nails.

2. The Relationship Between Retainers and Nail Biting:

Retainers, typically used in orthodontic treatment to maintain dental alignment, may serve as a deterrent for nail biting by creating a physical barrier between the teeth and the nails. The presence of a retainer in the mouth can make it more difficult to engage in nail biting behavior, potentially interrupting the habit loop and promoting behavior modification.

3. Effectiveness of Retainers for Behavior Modification:

While research specifically addressing the use of retainers for nail biting is limited, anecdotal evidence suggests that some individuals may experience success in breaking the habit with the help of a retainer. By providing a physical barrier and redirecting oral stimulation away from the nails, retainers can disrupt the automatic nature of nail biting and encourage alternative coping mechanisms for stress or anxiety.

4. Strategies for Overcoming Nail Biting:

In addition to using a retainer, individuals can employ various strategies to overcome the habit of nail biting:

• Awareness: Becoming aware of triggers and patterns associated with nail biting is the first step towards behavior change. Keep a journal to track instances of nail biting and identify common triggers, such as stress, boredom, or nervousness.

• Replacement Behavior: Substitute nail biting with alternative behaviors that provide similar sensory stimulation, such as chewing sugar-free gum, squeezing a stress ball, or engaging in deep breathing exercises.

• Positive Reinforcement: Reward yourself for small victories and progress towards breaking the habit of nail biting. Celebrate milestones and achievements, such as going a day without biting your nails or noticing improvements in nail health.

• Professional Help: If nail biting persists despite efforts to self-manage, consider seeking support from a therapist or behavioral specialist who can provide personalized strategies and interventions for overcoming the habit.

5. Maintaining Oral Hygiene:

It's important to maintain proper oral hygiene while wearing a retainer to prevent bacterial growth and oral health issues. Clean your retainer regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions, and practice good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing your teeth regularly.

Nail biting is a common habit that can have negative consequences for both oral and overall health. While the effectiveness of using retainers to break the habit of nail biting may vary among individuals, they offer a potential tool for behavior modification by creating a physical barrier and redirecting oral stimulation away from the nails. Combined with strategies for awareness, replacement behavior, positive reinforcement, and professional support, individuals can overcome the habit of nail biting and promote healthier alternatives for coping with stress or anxiety. With patience, persistence, and proper oral hygiene, individuals can break free from the cycle of nail biting and enjoy improved nail health and overall well-being.

Orthodontic treatment is a significant investment in achieving a straight, healthy smile. However, without proper maintenance, there is a risk of relapse, where teeth gradually shift back to their original positions over time. Retainers play a crucial role in preventing orthodontic relapse by maintaining dental alignment post-treatment. In this article, we'll explore the importance of retainers in orthodontic relapse prevention, how they work to preserve treatment results, and tips for ensuring long-term success in maintaining a straight smile.

1. Preserving Treatment Results:

After orthodontic treatment, whether with braces, aligners, or other appliances, the teeth need time to stabilize in their new positions. This stabilization phase is essential for preventing relapse and ensuring lasting results. Retainers help preserve the alignment achieved during treatment by holding the teeth in place while the surrounding tissues adapt to their new positions.

2. Types of Retainers:

There are two primary types of retainers: removable and fixed.

• Removable Retainers: These retainers are typically made of clear plastic or acrylic and are custom-fitted to the patient's teeth. They can be removed for eating, brushing, and special occasions.
• Fixed Retainers: Also known as permanent or bonded retainers, these are thin wires that are bonded to the back of the teeth to prevent shifting. Fixed retainers are non-removable and provide continuous support to maintain dental alignment.

3. Importance of Consistent Wear:

Consistent wear is essential for the effectiveness of retainers in preventing orthodontic relapse. Orthodontists typically recommend wearing retainers full-time initially, gradually transitioning to nighttime wear as the teeth stabilize. Skipping or reducing retainer wear can allow teeth to shift back towards their original positions, undoing the results of orthodontic treatment.

4. Long-Term Retainer Use:

Orthodontic relapse can occur even years after treatment if retainers are not worn as prescribed. Therefore, long-term retainer use is often necessary to maintain dental alignment indefinitely. Some individuals may need to wear retainers for several years, while others may require lifelong retainer wear to prevent relapse effectively.

5. Tips for Retainer Maintenance:

To ensure the effectiveness of retainers in preventing orthodontic relapse, consider the following tips for retainer maintenance:

• Cleanliness: Clean your retainers regularly using a soft toothbrush and mild soap or denture cleaner to remove plaque and bacteria.
• Storage: Store removable retainers in their case when not in use to protect them from damage or loss.
• Avoiding Damage: Avoid exposing retainers to excessive heat or pressure, which can distort their shape or cause breakage.
• Regular Check-ups: Attend regular check-ups with your orthodontist to monitor your retainer's fit and effectiveness and address any concerns promptly.

6. Addressing Changes in Fit:

If you notice changes in your retainer's fit or experience discomfort while wearing it, contact your orthodontist for evaluation and adjustments. Ill-fitting or damaged retainers may not effectively prevent orthodontic relapse and can lead to oral health issues if not addressed promptly.

Retainers play a vital role in preventing orthodontic relapse by maintaining dental alignment post-treatment. Consistent wear, proper maintenance, and long-term use are essential for ensuring the effectiveness of retainers in preserving treatment results and achieving lasting success in maintaining a straight smile. By following your orthodontist's recommendations for retainer wear and care, you can minimize the risk of relapse and enjoy the benefits of a beautiful, healthy smile for years to come.

Orthodontic treatment is a significant investment in achieving a straight, healthy smile. However, without proper maintenance, there is a risk of relapse, where teeth gradually shift back to their original positions over time. Retainers play a crucial role in preventing orthodontic relapse by maintaining dental alignment post-treatment. In this article, we'll explore the importance of retainers in orthodontic relapse prevention, how they work to preserve treatment results, and tips for ensuring long-term success in maintaining a straight smile.

1. Preserving Treatment Results:

After orthodontic treatment, whether with braces, aligners, or other appliances, the teeth need time to stabilize in their new positions. This stabilization phase is essential for preventing relapse and ensuring lasting results. Retainers help preserve the alignment achieved during treatment by holding the teeth in place while the surrounding tissues adapt to their new positions.

2. Types of Retainers:

There are two primary types of retainers: removable and fixed.

• Removable Retainers: These retainers are typically made of clear plastic or acrylic and are custom-fitted to the patient's teeth. They can be removed for eating, brushing, and special occasions.
• Fixed Retainers: Also known as permanent or bonded retainers, these are thin wires that are bonded to the back of the teeth to prevent shifting. Fixed retainers are non-removable and provide continuous support to maintain dental alignment.

3. Importance of Consistent Wear:

Consistent wear is essential for the effectiveness of retainers in preventing orthodontic relapse. Orthodontists typically recommend wearing retainers full-time initially, gradually transitioning to nighttime wear as the teeth stabilize. Skipping or reducing retainer wear can allow teeth to shift back towards their original positions, undoing the results of orthodontic treatment.

4. Long-Term Retainer Use:

Orthodontic relapse can occur even years after treatment if retainers are not worn as prescribed. Therefore, long-term retainer use is often necessary to maintain dental alignment indefinitely. Some individuals may need to wear retainers for several years, while others may require lifelong retainer wear to prevent relapse effectively.

5. Tips for Retainer Maintenance:

To ensure the effectiveness of retainers in preventing orthodontic relapse, consider the following tips for retainer maintenance:

• Cleanliness: Clean your retainers regularly using a soft toothbrush and mild soap or denture cleaner to remove plaque and bacteria.
• Storage: Store removable retainers in their case when not in use to protect them from damage or loss.
• Avoiding Damage: Avoid exposing retainers to excessive heat or pressure, which can distort their shape or cause breakage.
• Regular Check-ups: Attend regular check-ups with your orthodontist to monitor your retainer's fit and effectiveness and address any concerns promptly.

6. Addressing Changes in Fit:

If you notice changes in your retainer's fit or experience discomfort while wearing it, contact your orthodontist for evaluation and adjustments. Ill-fitting or damaged retainers may not effectively prevent orthodontic relapse and can lead to oral health issues if not addressed promptly.

Retainers play a vital role in preventing orthodontic relapse by maintaining dental alignment post-treatment. Consistent wear, proper maintenance, and long-term use are essential for ensuring the effectiveness of retainers in preserving treatment results and achieving lasting success in maintaining a straight smile. By following your orthodontist's recommendations for retainer wear and care, you can minimize the risk of relapse and enjoy the benefits of a beautiful, healthy smile for years to come.

Proper nutrition plays a significant role in supporting overall health, including the success of orthodontic treatment and retainer wear. The foods you eat can affect your dental health, tooth movement, and the longevity of your orthodontic appliances. Understanding how your diet influences your orthodontic treatment can help you make informed choices to support optimal outcomes. In this article, we'll explore the relationship between nutrition and orthodontic treatment, dietary considerations for retainer wear, and tips for maintaining a healthy diet throughout your orthodontic journey.

1. Impact of Nutrition on Orthodontic Treatment:

Nutrition plays a crucial role in supporting dental health and orthodontic treatment outcomes. A balanced diet provides essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals needed for healthy teeth and gums, as well as the bones and tissues that support them. Poor nutrition can compromise dental health, delay orthodontic progress, and increase the risk of complications such as tooth decay, gum disease, and enamel erosion.

2. Dietary Considerations for Retainer Wear:

When wearing retainers, it's essential to be mindful of your diet to avoid damaging your appliances and compromising treatment results. Consider the following dietary considerations for retainer wear:

• Avoid Hard Foods: Hard, crunchy foods such as nuts, popcorn, and hard candies can damage or dislodge retainers, leading to costly repairs or replacements. Opt for softer alternatives to protect your appliances and prevent interruptions in treatment.
• Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks: Sugary foods and beverages contribute to tooth decay and enamel erosion, increasing the risk of cavities and oral health issues. Limit your intake of sugary snacks, sodas, and sweetened beverages to protect your teeth and maintain optimal oral health.
• Minimize Sticky Foods: Sticky, chewy foods such as caramel, taffy, and gum can adhere to retainers and promote bacterial growth, increasing the risk of plaque buildup and gum disease. Minimize your consumption of sticky foods to reduce the risk of oral health problems during retainer wear.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and promote saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria that can accumulate around retainers.

3. Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Diet:

To support your orthodontic treatment and retainer wear, consider the following tips for maintaining a healthy diet:

• Eat a Balanced Diet: Include a variety of nutrient-rich foods in your diet, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and dairy products, to ensure you're getting essential vitamins and minerals for dental health.
• Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth after meals and snacks, and floss daily to remove food particles and plaque that can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease.
• Schedule Regular Dental Check-ups: Attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings to monitor your oral health, address any concerns, and ensure your orthodontic treatment is progressing as planned.
• Consult Your Orthodontist: If you have specific dietary concerns or questions about how your diet may affect your orthodontic treatment, consult your orthodontist for personalized guidance and recommendations.

Nutrition plays a critical role in supporting orthodontic treatment outcomes and maintaining oral health during retainer wear. By making informed dietary choices, avoiding foods that can compromise treatment results, and following good oral hygiene practices, you can support the success of your orthodontic journey and enjoy the benefits of a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come. Remember to consult your orthodontist if you have any questions or concerns about your diet and its impact on your orthodontic treatment and retainer wear.

While retainers are primarily designed to maintain dental alignment, some individuals may experience ear pain or discomfort while wearing them. Understanding the potential connection between retainers and ear pain can help individuals identify and address underlying issues to ensure optimal comfort and treatment outcomes. In this article, we'll explore the possible causes of ear pain related to retainer wear, management strategies, and when to seek professional advice for persistent discomfort.

1. Possible Causes of Ear Pain:

Several factors may contribute to ear pain or discomfort while wearing retainers:

• Pressure on Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ): Retainers can exert pressure on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull in front of the ear. This pressure may result in TMJ dysfunction, leading to ear pain, jaw discomfort, and difficulty opening or closing the mouth.
• Muscle Tension: Prolonged wear of retainers, especially if they are too tight or ill-fitting, can cause muscle tension in the jaw and surrounding areas, leading to referred pain in the ears.
• Nerve Sensitivity: Some individuals may have heightened nerve sensitivity in the jaw or ear region, making them more susceptible to experiencing discomfort while wearing retainers.

2. Management Strategies for Ear Pain:

If you experience ear pain or discomfort while wearing retainers, consider the following management strategies:

• Take Breaks: If wearing your retainer continuously causes discomfort, try taking short breaks throughout the day to give your jaw muscles and TMJ a rest.
• Practice Relaxation Techniques: Relaxation techniques such as gentle jaw exercises, massage, and stress-reduction techniques can help alleviate muscle tension and promote relaxation in the jaw and ear area.
• Adjust Retainer Fit: If your retainer feels too tight or uncomfortable, consult your orthodontist to adjust the fit or explore alternative retainer options that provide better comfort and support.
• Use Pain Relief Measures: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate ear pain associated with retainer wear. Follow the recommended dosage instructions and consult your healthcare provider if pain persists or worsens.

3. When to Seek Professional Advice:

While mild ear discomfort may resolve with self-care measures, it's essential to seek professional advice if you experience persistent or severe symptoms. Consider consulting your orthodontist or healthcare provider if you experience the following:

• Persistent ear pain or discomfort that does not improve with self-care measures.
• Difficulty opening or closing the mouth, jaw locking, or clicking or popping sounds in the jaw joint.
• Signs of inflammation, swelling, or redness in the ear or jaw area.
• Changes in hearing or other accompanying symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or ringing in the ears.

4. Prevention Tips:

To minimize the risk of ear pain or discomfort while wearing retainers, consider the following prevention tips:

• Attend regular orthodontic appointments to ensure your retainer fits properly and adjust it as needed.
• Practice good oral hygiene to prevent oral health issues that could exacerbate ear pain or discomfort.
• Avoid clenching or grinding your teeth, as this can contribute to muscle tension and TMJ dysfunction.
• Follow your orthodontist's recommendations for retainer wear and care to maintain optimal comfort and treatment outcomes.

While ear pain or discomfort associated with retainer wear can be bothersome, understanding the potential causes and management strategies can help alleviate symptoms and ensure a more comfortable orthodontic experience. By practicing self-care measures, seeking professional advice when needed, and taking preventive measures to minimize discomfort, individuals can better manage ear pain related to retainer wear and maintain optimal oral health and treatment outcomes. If you experience persistent or severe symptoms, don't hesitate to consult your orthodontist or healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment recommendations.