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By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull just in front of each ear. For many UK patients, TMD pain is caused by bruxism — teeth grinding and clenching during sleep — which exhausts the surrounding jaw muscles overnight.
A night guard doesn't stop grinding, but changes what happens when it occurs: it creates a slight gap between teeth to reduce joint compression, holds the jaw in a neutral position to reduce muscle clenching tension, and protects enamel from wear over time.
Pharmacy boil-and-bite guards rarely achieve a stable bite position. Poorly fitted guards can actually increase jaw muscle tension. A custom-fitted guard from dental impressions sits passively — no muscle effort required. For TMD patients, the outcome difference is clinically meaningful.
Private dentist quotes for custom night guards frequently start above £200. NewSmile UK offers a custom night guard pair for £109, shipped from your home dental impressions — the same custom-fit quality at a significant saving.
| Option | Cost | Custom-fitted? |
|---|---|---|
| NHS (Band 3) | £30.50 | Yes |
| Private dentist | £200–£600+ | Yes |
| NewSmile online | £109 pair | Yes |
| Chemist | £20–40 | No |
Jaw pain from grinding? A custom night guard is the first-line treatment UK dentists recommend.
£109 for a pair — from your home dental impressions. We ship as soon as production is complete.
No, but it is one of the most effective ways to manage bruxism-related TMD symptoms by reducing force transmitted to the joint during sleep.
NHS Band 3 treatment (£30.50) can cover a custom night guard, but access depends on having an NHS dentist — waiting times are very long across the UK. NewSmile offers the same quality online for £109 a pair.
Hard acrylic or semi-hard guards are generally recommended by UK dentists for TMD patients. Soft guards can sometimes increase clenching behaviour.
Most UK patients notice reduced morning jaw tension within two to four weeks of consistent nightly wear.
By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy
"Retainers at Home" appears near the top of UK searches for "cheapest custom retainer UK." Their per-arch pricing model looks attractive at first glance. NewSmile UK positions itself differently: flat-rate pair pricing and a focus on post-orthodontic retention care.
Retainers at Home charges from around £69.99 per arch. For patients who need both upper and lower retainers — the most common situation after orthodontic treatment — that pricing doubles.
NewSmile UK charges £109 for a pair: one upper and one lower Essix retainer in the same order. For most patients, that is the real comparison: £109 vs [INSERT RETAINERS AT HOME PAIR PRICE].
| Feature | NewSmile UK | Retainers at Home UK |
|---|---|---|
| Pair price | £109 | [INSERT CURRENT PRICE] |
| Impression kit included | Yes | Yes |
| Retainer type | Clear Essix | Clear Essix |
| Fit guarantee | Yes | Yes (60-day) |
| Customer support | Yes | Yes |
Both services use an at-home impression kit. You receive dental putty trays, press your teeth in, let the moulds set, and post them back in a prepaid envelope. Your retainers are fabricated at a dental lab and returned by post.
Neither service requires a dentist visit. For patients coming out of Invisalign or traditional braces, the impression process is usually straightforward — you have likely done it before with your orthodontist.
Several UK providers — Retainer Direct, Retainers at Home, EverythingTeeth — compete aggressively on per-arch price. But the "cheapest" headline number only tells the full story if you are buying a single arch. Most patients need two.
Run the actual pair comparison for your situation. With NewSmile, the all-in pair price is £109. If you genuinely only need to replace one arch — say, you lost your upper retainer but still have a working lower one — per-arch pricing from providers like Retainers at Home can make sense.
Need to replace your retainer? NewSmile UK ships custom clear Essix retainers direct to your door.
£109 for both arches. Home impression kit included. We ship as soon as production is complete.
For patients who need both arches, NewSmile's £109 pair price is straightforward and competitive. If you need only a single arch replacement, compare the per-arch prices directly before committing. Either way, a custom-fitted online retainer outperforms any off-the-shelf alternative.
Yes. Retainers at Home (retainersathome.co.uk) is a UK-based provider shipping custom retainers for post-orthodontic patients.
Online custom retainers range from approximately £60 to £150+ depending on provider and whether you buy per arch or as a pair. NewSmile charges £109 for a pair — both upper and lower arches included.
Yes. Both NewSmile and Retainers at Home include at-home impression kits. You make moulds at home and post them back — no dentist visit required.
Clear retainers typically last one to three years. Signs it is time to replace: visible cracks, yellowing, or a fit that feels loose or tight. If your teeth have shifted, a new retainer helps hold them in position.
By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy
Two UK-based online night guard providers competing for the same customer: someone who grinds their teeth and wants a custom-fitted guard without paying high-street dentist prices. Both ship an impression kit, you make moulds at home and post them back, and receive a custom guard.
NewSmile UK charges £109 for a pair. NewSmile's flat-rate pair price covers both upper and lower arches with no per-arch confusion.
| Feature | NewSmile UK | Caspersmile UK |
|---|---|---|
| Night guard pair price | £109 | [INSERT CURRENT PRICE] |
| Impression kit | Yes | Yes |
| Guard material options | Clear rigid/soft | Soft, hard, hybrid |
| UK-made | Yes | Yes |
| Fit guarantee | Yes | Yes |
Caspersmile offers three guard types: soft, hard, and dual-layer hybrid — useful if your dentist has recommended a specific material. NewSmile's simpler range works well for the majority who just need a properly fitted custom guard.
Both offer hard-material guards for severe bruxism. For mild to moderate grinders — the majority — a standard custom guard from either provider works well. The key advantage over pharmacy options is fit: a custom guard distributes force evenly in ways no boil-and-bite can replicate.
Protect your teeth from grinding with a custom NewSmile night guard.
Flat-rate £109 for a pair — we ship as soon as production is complete.
For most UK grinders who want reliable custom fit and clear pricing, NewSmile's £109 night guard pair is the stronger choice. If material range and hybrid options matter, Caspersmile is worth a look. Either custom option substantially outperforms a pharmacy boil-and-bite.
Yes. Caspersmile (caspersmile.uk) ships impression kits and produces custom guards within the UK.
Prices range from £69 to £150+. NewSmile charges £109 for a pair covering both arches.
A hybrid combines a hard outer shell with a soft inner layer — suited to moderate grinders. Mild grinders do well with a standard custom soft guard.
One to three years with proper care. Rinse with cold water and air-dry after each use.
By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy
Teeth grinding (bruxism) affects an estimated one in three people in the UK at some point in their lives, according to the NHS. Left unprotected, it can cause worn enamel, cracked teeth, and persistent jaw pain. A well-fitted custom night guard is the most effective over-the-counter solution — but with newer UK brands entering the market, choosing between them takes some research.
In this comparison we look closely at two at-home custom night guard providers available to UK customers: Biite and NewSmile. We cover pricing, turnaround, materials, clinical oversight, and the overall value you get for your money.
Biite (biite.co.uk) is a UK-based night guard brand that offers soft and hard guard options made from dental-grade materials. The brand advertises a 48-hour turnaround time once impressions are received and has attracted positive Trustpilot mentions from customers who appreciate its straightforward ordering process.
NewSmile is a telehealth dental brand serving customers across the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia. UK customers can order a NewSmile custom night guard directly from home, with every order individually reviewed by a clinical team using MHRA-compliant dental materials. Priced at a flat £109 per pair, NewSmile also provides custom retainers — meaning you can protect your smile on multiple fronts from one provider.
| Feature | Biite (biite.co.uk) | NewSmile UK |
|---|---|---|
| Price | [INSERT CURRENT PRICE FROM biite.co.uk] | £109 (night guard pair) |
| Turnaround time | 48-hour turnaround advertised | Ships as soon as production is complete |
| Guard options | Soft and hard night guards | Soft and hard night guards |
| Clinical review | Not publicly stated | Every order reviewed by clinical team |
| Materials compliance | Dental-grade materials | MHRA-compliant dental-grade materials |
| Retainers also available | Night guards only | Yes — retainer pair also £109 |
Getting a custom night guard through a traditional UK dental practice typically costs between £150 and £500 or more depending on your dentist and location. NHS provision for bruxism guards is limited and waiting times can be lengthy.
Biite offers an at-home alternative at a price point listed on their website — check biite.co.uk directly for current pricing as it may change. NewSmile UK charges a flat £109 for a custom night guard pair — no hidden lab fees, no consultation charges.
One consideration that sets at-home night guard brands apart is how much clinical oversight is built into the process. Any device that sits in your mouth overnight should be reviewed by a qualified professional — not just manufactured to the shape of your impressions.
NewSmile includes a clinical review on every single order. Your impressions are assessed before your guard is fabricated, and the finished product uses MHRA-compliant materials — the UK regulatory standard for dental devices.
Biite uses dental-grade materials and has received positive customer feedback. If clinical oversight is a priority for you, NewSmile's transparent process provides additional reassurance.
Both Biite and NewSmile offer soft and hard night guard options, which is a meaningful feature — not every bruxism sufferer needs the same level of protection.
NewSmile's clinical review process helps flag the appropriate option for your bite profile before production begins — an advantage of having qualified eyes on your order before your guard is made.
Stop grinding your teeth without proper protection.
NewSmile UK makes a custom dental-grade night guard from your home impression for £109 — clinically reviewed, no dentist needed.
Biite has received positive reviews online and offers genuine dental-grade materials with a choice of soft or hard guard options. For UK customers looking for a straightforward at-home night guard, it is a reasonable option. However, if clinical oversight on every order and MHRA-compliant materials are important to you, NewSmile's process provides a more comprehensively reviewed product at a competitive £109 price point.
Custom night guards from UK dental practices typically range from around £150 to over £500 for a single arch, with NHS provision limited and subject to waiting times. At-home brands offer a more affordable alternative: NewSmile UK charges a flat £109 for a custom night guard pair, including home impression kit and clinical review.
It depends on the severity of your bruxism. Soft night guards are well suited to mild-to-moderate grinders and tend to be more comfortable initially. Hard night guards are better for heavy or habitual grinders because the rigid material is more durable and provides a stable surface that can help reduce clenching over time.
Yes. UK-based at-home brands including NewSmile and Biite allow you to take your own dental impressions at home using a provided kit, then mail them in for professional fabrication. No dentist appointment needed. NewSmile goes a step further by including a clinical review of every order, providing an additional layer of oversight without requiring an in-person visit.
The NHS recommends seeing a dentist if you think you grind your teeth, and in some cases a night guard may be available through NHS dental treatment. However, access and waiting times vary significantly by area, and many patients find that private at-home options like NewSmile offer a faster and more cost-effective route to a clinically sound custom guard.
By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy
Shopping for a custom retainer online in the UK has never been easier — which also means more providers to compare. Retainer Xpress and NewSmile are two of the most searched options right now, and if you've typed retainer xpress review uk or retainer xpress vs newsmile into Google this week, you're in the right place.
This article lays out a side-by-side comparison across price, materials, process, and value so you can make an informed decision without booking a dentist appointment first.
Retainer Xpress is a UK-based provider offering custom clear retainers and night guards by post. They advertise BPA-free and phthalate-free materials, a hard rigid polypropylene option for their night guard, and transparent pricing on their website. They also offer an in-person London service for customers who prefer to have impressions taken by a professional rather than at home. Current pricing: [INSERT CURRENT PRICE FROM retainerxpress.co.uk] for a retainer pair; [INSERT NIGHT GUARD PRICE FROM retainerxpress.co.uk] for a night guard.
NewSmile is a telehealth dental retention brand operating across the UK, US, Canada, and Australia. UK customers order a home impression kit, take their own dental impressions, post them back, and receive a precision Essix-style clear retainer — no clinic visit required. The pair price is a flat £109, with MHRA-compliant materials and a dedicated clinical team reviewing every case. The NewSmile custom retainer is made from dental-grade thermoplastic and is designed to maintain orthodontic results long-term. For patients who grind their teeth, the NewSmile night guard is also available at the same £109 price point.
| Feature | Retainer Xpress UK | NewSmile UK |
|---|---|---|
| Retainer pair price | [INSERT CURRENT PRICE FROM retainerxpress.co.uk] | £109 |
| Night guard price | [INSERT NIGHT GUARD PRICE FROM retainerxpress.co.uk] | £109 |
| Process | Home impressions or London in-person option | Home impression kit, fully postal |
| Materials | BPA-free, phthalate-free; rigid polypropylene night guard option | MHRA-compliant dental-grade thermoplastic |
| Regulatory compliance | Not specified on site | MHRA-compliant |
| Clinical review | Not publicly confirmed | Every case reviewed by clinical team |
| Turnaround | See their site for current times | Ships as soon as production is complete |
| In-person option | Yes (London) | No — fully at-home |
One of the most common complaints about online retainer providers is that the headline price doesn't reflect the total cost. Impression kit fees, postage, and replacement charges can add up quickly.
NewSmile's £109 covers a top and bottom retainer pair. There are no separate impression kit fees buried at checkout. For UK buyers comparing buy custom retainer uk online options, this flat-rate model is straightforward — you know exactly what you're paying before you order.
Retainer Xpress lists pricing directly on their website, which is a positive sign for transparency. Check retainerxpress.co.uk for their current figures, as prices may have changed since this article was published.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is the UK body responsible for ensuring medical devices — including dental appliances — meet safety standards. Retainers that sit against your teeth and gums for hours each night should meet these requirements. NewSmile's materials are manufactured to MHRA standards, which gives UK customers a clear regulatory reference point.
Retainer Xpress explicitly markets their products as BPA-free and phthalate-free, which is a reasonable baseline for any dental-grade appliance. NewSmile's dental-grade thermoplastic is similarly formulated to avoid known plasticiser concerns. MHRA compliance adds a formal regulatory layer that matters for medical devices in the UK specifically.
NewSmile sends a home impression kit containing putty, trays, and step-by-step instructions. You take upper and lower impressions yourself — it takes around 10 minutes — then post the kit back in the pre-paid return envelope. The clinical team reviews your impressions, and your retainers are fabricated and dispatched as soon as production is complete. No dentist appointment, no travel, no waiting room.
Retainer Xpress offers a point of difference with their London in-person service. For customers who are uncomfortable taking impressions at home, or who want professional oversight from the outset, this is a genuine advantage. Most UK customers outside London won't use it, but it's worth noting if you're based in the capital and prefer that route.
If you live outside London, have had retainers before, or simply want the most convenient option, the fully postal NewSmile process works well for the vast majority of customers. If you're anxious about taking your own impressions and live near London, Retainer Xpress's walk-in service is worth considering.
Ready for a custom retainer that fits perfectly — at £109?
NewSmile ships a precision Essix retainer from your home impression kit, no dentist appointment needed.
Yes. Retainer Xpress is a UK-based provider offering postal and in-person retainer and night guard services. They operate transparently with listed pricing and contact details on their website. As with any dental appliance provider, it is worth checking their current regulatory credentials before ordering.
Prices vary by provider. NewSmile charges £109 for a top and bottom retainer pair, with no hidden fees. NHS retainers are available following orthodontic treatment but are not typically offered as replacements for lost or worn retainers. Private dental practices often charge significantly more than online providers for the same Essix-style appliance.
Yes. Both NewSmile and Retainer Xpress offer custom night guards by post. NewSmile's custom night guard is £109 and follows the same home impression kit process as their retainers. Retainer Xpress offers a rigid polypropylene option — check their site for current pricing.
The most effective method is an ultrasonic cleaner paired with specialist retainer cleaning pods — these remove biofilm and calculus without abrasion or chemical residue. Avoid abrasive pastes or strong mouthwashes, which can scratch or cloud the plastic over time. Never use boiling water or a dishwasher, as heat warps the fit.
NewSmile's clinical team reviews every impression set before production begins. If your impressions are not sufficient for accurate fabrication, you will be contacted and a replacement kit arranged. This review step is one of the reasons a clinical oversight process matters — it avoids poorly fitting retainers being dispatched without a quality check.
By Joanna M. | Director of Telehealth Clinical Operations | Fact-Checked for Clinical Accuracy
If you've been comparing custom retainers and night guards online in the UK, you've likely come across both Smilero and NewSmile. Both companies let you skip the dentist's chair and order from home — a genuine convenience for anyone who's already completed orthodontic treatment or who grinds their teeth at night. But the two brands differ in meaningful ways: pricing structure, materials, turnaround, and the level of clinical oversight behind each order.
This comparison covers what each provider actually offers so you can make a confident, informed decision.
Smilero (smilerodental.co.uk) is a UK-based dental products company offering clear retainers and night guards through a postal impression kit. They advertise a 30-day satisfaction guarantee and position themselves as a no-clinic-visit alternative to traditional dentists. Their current pricing is listed as [INSERT CURRENT PRICE FROM smilerodental.co.uk] — we recommend verifying directly on their website before purchasing, as promotional prices can change.
NewSmile operates custom clear retainers and custom night guards across the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia. In the UK, both a retainer pair and a night guard pair are priced at £109. Orders are fulfilled using Essix-style dental-grade thermoplastic, fabricated from impressions you take at home with the included kit. A telehealth clinical team reviews each case before production begins.
| Category | Smilero UK | NewSmile UK |
|---|---|---|
| Retainer pair price | [INSERT CURRENT PRICE] | £109 |
| Night guard pair price | [INSERT CURRENT PRICE] | £109 |
| Impression method | Postal impression kit | Postal impression kit |
| Clinic visit required? | No | No |
| Clinical review | Not prominently stated | Telehealth team reviews every order |
| Material | Clear thermoplastic | Dental-grade Essix thermoplastic |
| Satisfaction guarantee | 30 days | Fit guarantee included |
| UK-specific operation | Yes | Yes — dedicated UK store |
A retainer or night guard is only as good as the material it's made from. Thin, non-dental-grade plastic may feel comfortable initially but tends to warp under body heat, crack under grinding pressure, or discolour quickly. NewSmile fabricates its appliances using dental-grade Essix thermoplastic — the same category of material used in private dental practices across the UK for post-orthodontic retention.
Smilero lists clear thermoplastic appliances on their site, consistent with standard at-home retainer offerings. If material grade is a priority for you, it's worth contacting them directly before ordering to confirm the specification of what you'll receive.
Both providers use a postal impression kit, meaning you press your teeth into putty-style trays at home, then return the moulds by post. This removes the need for an in-person appointment — a significant time and cost saving compared to going through a high-street dentist or orthodontist for a standard retainer.
With NewSmile, once your impressions are received, a telehealth clinical team assesses the moulds before production begins. If there's an issue with your impression — poor definition, bite misalignment, or incomplete coverage — you'll be contacted to redo it before a device is fabricated. Production then begins and your retainer or night guard is dispatched as soon as it's complete.
Bruxism — teeth grinding and jaw clenching during sleep — is common in the UK adult population. The NHS advises that a custom-fitted mouth guard is one of the primary ways to protect teeth from the damage bruxism causes over time. Over-the-counter boil-and-bite guards from pharmacies lack the precision fit of a lab-fabricated device, which affects both comfort and protective coverage.
The NewSmile night guard is a custom-fabricated, dental-grade appliance made directly from your impressions. At £109 for a pair, it sits at a fraction of the cost of a dentist-made night guard — which typically ranges from £200 to £500 through private UK practices — while using the same class of material.
Regardless of which brand you choose, retainer hygiene directly affects how long your appliance lasts and how safe it is to wear. The NHS recommends keeping dental appliances free from bacteria and plaque buildup. For NewSmile retainer wearers, the Petal Ultrasonic Cleaner paired with Petal Cleaning Pods provides a thorough, hands-free clean — far more effective than surface scrubbing, and safe for Essix thermoplastic.
Get a Custom Retainer or Night Guard for £109 — No Dentist Visit Needed.
NewSmile UK makes precision Essix retainers and dental-grade night guards from your home impression kit.
Yes — Smilero operates as a UK-based dental products provider via smilerodental.co.uk. They offer custom retainers and night guards through a postal impression process and include a 30-day guarantee. As with any at-home dental appliance company, it's worth reviewing their clinical oversight policies before ordering.
NewSmile UK charges £109 for a retainer pair and £109 for a night guard pair. Smilero's current pricing should be verified directly at smilerodental.co.uk, as promotional pricing can change. NewSmile's flat £109 structure has no hidden add-ons for the appliance itself.
No. Both NewSmile and Smilero operate direct-to-consumer and do not require a dentist's referral or clinic visit. You receive an impression kit by post, complete your impressions at home, return them, and your appliance is fabricated and dispatched. NewSmile's telehealth team reviews your impressions clinically before production begins.
Custom retainers made from dental-grade Essix thermoplastic — whether ordered online or through a practice — are fabricated from the same class of material. The quality of the impression you take at home is the primary variable. NewSmile includes clear instructions and will flag poor impressions before fabricating your device.
NewSmile includes a fit guarantee with every order. If your appliance doesn't fit correctly due to a fabrication issue, contact the support team to arrange a resolution. The telehealth review stage before production is specifically designed to catch impression problems before they lead to a poorly fitting device.
Quick Answer: Venneir is a UK-based retainer service that advertises a 1-day fabrication turnaround after receiving your impressions. NewSmile charges £109 for a custom Essix retainer pair with clinical review included. Venneir suits you if speed is your primary concern; NewSmile is the stronger choice for documented clinical oversight and transparent pair pricing at £109.
If you have been searching for a fast at-home retainer in the UK, you will likely have come across Venneir (venneir.com). They market themselves as MHRA-compliant and claim a 1-day turnaround in their laboratory after impressions are received — a meaningful point of difference in a market where most services take 7–14 days.
This review compares what Venneir actually offers versus NewSmile, so you can decide which suits your situation in 2026.
Venneir is a UK-based direct-to-consumer retainer company offering Essix-style clear retainers. Their key selling point is their laboratory turnaround: they claim impressions are fabricated within one working day of receipt. This, combined with fast UK postage, can make the total delivery time significantly shorter than many competitors.
Venneir states MHRA compliance on their website, which covers the regulatory requirements for custom dental devices in the UK. Pricing is available directly on their website (venneir.com) and should be checked at time of purchase, as it may change.
NewSmile is a UK retainer specialist offering £109 for an upper-and-lower pair of custom Essix retainers. The service includes a clinical review step before fabrication — qualified dental professionals check your impressions before the retainer is made. NewSmile uses Zendura A-grade thermoplastic and offers a fit guarantee.
Venneir's 1-day laboratory turnaround is a genuine differentiator. If you need a replacement retainer urgently, Venneir may be able to deliver significantly faster than services with longer fabrication windows.
NewSmile's clinical review step adds time to the process — impressions are assessed before going to the laboratory, which typically means a longer total turnaround. For most patients replacing retainers on a normal schedule, this is not a meaningful concern. For urgent replacements, Venneir's speed may be worth the comparison.
NewSmile explicitly includes a clinical review step: qualified dental professionals assess each set of impressions before fabrication. This catches poorly taken impressions — air bubbles, incomplete arch capture, distorted putty — before a retainer is made from them.
Venneir documents MHRA compliance and their service model, but the specific clinical review process for impressions is worth confirming directly with them before ordering. MHRA compliance covers the device category but does not specify whether individual impression sets are clinically assessed prior to fabrication.
NewSmile charges £109 for a complete upper-and-lower pair — this price is transparent and includes the impression kit and clinical review. For a subscription replacing retainers every 6 months, the per-set cost reduces further.
Venneir's pricing is available on their website. Check venneir.com for current rates at the time you order, as pricing is subject to change.
NewSmile offers a fit guarantee and has a UK-accessible customer support pathway. For patients replacing regularly, their subscription plan provides ongoing replacements without the need for warranty claims.
Venneir offers a remake guarantee for fit issues — confirm the specific terms on their website before ordering.
Whichever brand you choose, avoid soaking your Essix retainer in toothpaste, mouthwash, or boiling water. For a thorough clean, the Petal Ultrasonic Cleaner paired with Petal Cleaning Pods is specifically formulated for clear retainers and removes bacteria without damaging the material.
You can order your custom Essix retainer pair from NewSmile — clinical review included as standard.
Need a replacement retainer in the UK?
NewSmile ships a custom Essix retainer pair for £109 — includes a home impression kit, clinical review, and a fit guarantee. No dentist visit required.
Venneir claims a 1-day fabrication turnaround after receiving your impressions. This can make the total delivery time significantly shorter than many competitors who take 7–14 days from impression receipt. Check venneir.com for current delivery timelines.
Venneir states MHRA compliance on their website. MHRA compliance covers the custom dental device category in the UK. Confirm the specific clinical oversight process for impressions directly with Venneir before ordering.
NewSmile's process includes a clinical review step before fabrication, which adds time but provides an important quality check. Total turnaround is typically 10–14 days from impression receipt. For urgent replacements, Venneir may be faster.
NewSmile charges £109 for a complete upper-and-lower pair — this is a transparent fixed price. Venneir's pricing should be checked directly on venneir.com for current rates. Compare both at the time of purchase.
By Joanna M.
If you are looking for a custom clear retainer in the UK without a dentist visit, you will likely come across Everything Teeth (everythingteeth.co.uk) and NewSmile. Both are direct-to-consumer services using at-home impressions. This comparison breaks down what you actually get from each brand in 2026.
Everything Teeth is a UK dental products retailer offering a range of at-home dental devices including custom-fit clear retainers, whitening products, and teeth cleaning accessories. Their custom retainer range is priced at £60–£110 per arch, and they market themselves as being significantly cheaper than high street dentists — approximately 70% less expensive. They also offer an optional retainer insurance product for ongoing cover.
The breadth of their product range is a point of difference — Everything Teeth is not a retainer specialist; they offer dental consumables across multiple categories.
NewSmile is a UK retainer specialist offering custom Essix-style clear retainers at £109 for an upper-and-lower pair. The service is built specifically around post-orthodontic retention, with a clinical review step included before each retainer is fabricated. NewSmile also offers a subscription for patients who replace regularly.
| Provider | Single Arch | Full Set (Upper + Lower) |
|---|---|---|
| Everything Teeth UK | £60–£110 | £120–£220 |
| NewSmile UK | Available | £109 (pair) |
| Private Dentist | £150–£400/arch | £300–£800 |
For a single arch, Everything Teeth's lower end (£60) undercuts NewSmile. For a full upper-and-lower set, NewSmile's £109 pair pricing is typically cheaper than Everything Teeth's two-arch total of £120–£220.
The key question with any at-home retainer service is what happens between you returning your impressions and receiving your retainer. A poorly taken impression will produce a poorly fitting retainer — regardless of the material quality.
NewSmile includes a clinical review step: qualified dental professionals assess impressions before they go to the laboratory. This is explicitly part of their process and is communicated to customers. NewSmile also uses Zendura A-grade thermoplastic, a medical-grade material widely used by orthodontic labs.
Everything Teeth's impression review process is not prominently documented on their website. If material quality and clinical oversight are priorities for you, it is worth contacting them to confirm what quality checks take place before fabrication.
Everything Teeth offers retainers alongside a much broader range of dental products — whitening kits, cleaning tools, and cosmetic dental accessories. If you want one supplier for multiple dental products, this may suit you. However, their retainer offering is not their core product.
NewSmile is a retainer specialist. Their entire service model is built around custom clear retainer provision, with the impression kit, clinical review, and fabrication optimised specifically for Essix retainer production.
Everything Teeth offers a 30-day guarantee on their products and an optional retainer insurance plan for ongoing replacement cover. This can be a useful option if you want structured ongoing protection.
NewSmile offers a fit guarantee and has a UK-accessible customer support pathway. For patients replacing regularly, their subscription plan provides regular replacements without needing to claim under a warranty.
You can order your custom Essix retainer pair from NewSmile — clinical review included as standard.
Need a replacement retainer in the UK?
NewSmile ships a custom Essix retainer pair for £109 — includes a home impression kit, clinical review, and a fit guarantee. No dentist visit required.
Whichever brand you choose, avoid soaking your Essix retainer in toothpaste, mouthwash, or boiling water — all degrade the thermoplastic material over time. For a thorough clean, the Petal Ultrasonic Cleaner paired with Petal Cleaning Pods is specifically formulated for clear retainers and removes bacteria without damaging the material.
Everything Teeth charges £60–£110 per retainer arch. A full upper-and-lower set costs £120–£220. NewSmile charges £109 for a complete upper-and-lower pair, which is typically cheaper for a full set.
Everything Teeth is an established UK dental products retailer. For retainers specifically, confirm whether they include a qualified clinical review step before fabrication — this is the key quality check in at-home retainer services.
For a complete upper-and-lower set, NewSmile at £109 is usually cheaper than Everything Teeth's two-arch total. NewSmile also documents its clinical review process explicitly. Everything Teeth may suit you better if you only need a single arch or want to bundle with other dental products they offer.
At-home impression services like NewSmile (£109/pair) and Everything Teeth (from £60/arch) are significantly cheaper than private dentists (£300–£800 for a set) and NHS Band 3 treatment (£306.80 in England). For a complete set, NewSmile's pair pricing is one of the most competitive options in the UK market.
By Joanna M.
If you have recently finished orthodontic treatment or lost a retainer, you will quickly find two popular at-home options in the UK market: Retainer Direct and NewSmile. Both offer custom clear Essix retainers through an impression kit, both avoid the need for a dentist visit, and both ship to UK addresses. The difference is the price structure — and what that price difference means for the quality you receive.
Retainer Direct lists its retainers at £64 per arch — a single upper or lower retainer only. If you need both upper and lower (which most post-orthodontic patients do), that is £128 total.
NewSmile charges £109 for a pair — upper and lower together. A single arch is also available at a lower price. NewSmile also offers a subscription that reduces the per-set cost for patients who replace every six months, as most orthodontists recommend.
For a complete set, NewSmile is cheaper at £109 versus Retainer Direct's £128. Retainer Direct is only cheaper if you need a single arch only.
Both brands produce Essix-style clear thermoplastic retainers — the current standard for post-orthodontic retention. The quality difference lies in the material specification and the laboratory fabrication process.
NewSmile fabricates retainers from Zendura A-grade thermoplastic at 0.030-inch thickness — a medical-grade material widely used by orthodontic labs across the UK and USA. This material is known for its durability, clarity, and stain resistance over time.
Retainer Direct does not publish its material specification publicly. If material quality matters to you, contact Retainer Direct directly to confirm what grade of thermoplastic they use.
The most meaningful difference between the two brands is whether a qualified clinical professional reviews your impressions before your retainer is fabricated.
NewSmile includes a clinical review step as standard: qualified dental professionals assess each set of impressions before they go to the laboratory. This catches poorly taken impressions — air bubbles, incomplete arch capture, or distorted putty — before a retainer is made from them. A retainer made from a poor impression will not fit correctly, regardless of material quality.
Retainer Direct's impression review process is not clearly documented on their website. Confirm this step exists before ordering. In the UK, MHRA regulations apply to custom dental devices, and clinical oversight is part of responsible direct-to-consumer orthodontic provision.
Retainer Direct advertises a 60-day remake guarantee, covering remakes if the retainer does not fit within 60 days of delivery. This is a reasonable policy for the price point.
NewSmile offers a fit guarantee and UK-accessible customer support. For patients on the subscription plan, regular replacements are built in as standard — you do not need to use warranty claims to stay compliant with your orthodontist's retention schedule.
You can order your custom clear Essix retainer pair from NewSmile — clinical review included as standard.
Need a replacement retainer in the UK?
NewSmile ships a custom Essix retainer pair for £109 — includes a home impression kit, clinical review, and a fit guarantee. No dentist visit required.
Whichever brand you choose, avoid soaking in toothpaste, mouthwash, or boiling water — all damage Essix thermoplastic over time. For a thorough clean, the Petal Ultrasonic Cleaner paired with Petal Cleaning Pods is specifically formulated for clear retainers and removes bacteria without damaging the material.
Retainer Direct charges £64 per arch. A full upper-and-lower set costs £128. NewSmile charges £109 for a complete pair, making it cheaper for a full set.
Retainer Direct offers a lower-cost at-home impression route compared to a private dentist who may charge £150 to £400 per retainer. It is a reasonable option for straightforward replacements — verify their clinical review process before ordering.
Retainer Direct offers a 60-day remake warranty. NewSmile includes clinical review before fabrication which reduces the likelihood of a bad fit, plus a fit guarantee. NewSmile's subscription plan provides the most cost-effective and consistent ongoing coverage.
For a single arch yes — Retainer Direct charges £64. For a complete upper-and-lower set, NewSmile at £109 is cheaper than Retainer Direct's £128 two-arch total.
Look for providers that include a qualified clinical reviewer before fabrication. UK custom dental devices are regulated by the MHRA. Confirm clinical oversight is part of the process before ordering.
By Joanna M.
Bruxism — teeth grinding, usually during sleep — affects an estimated 8–10% of adults in the UK. The consequences range from worn enamel and tooth sensitivity to jaw pain, headaches, and cracked fillings. A properly fitted night guard is the primary line of defence.
But the UK market for night guards is confusing. Chemist shelves stock cheap boil-and-bite options. Online services promise dentist-quality custom guards at a fraction of clinic prices. NHS coverage exists but comes with strings attached. This guide cuts through the noise.
Available from Boots, Superdrug, and most UK pharmacies for £15–£40. These are softened in boiling water and moulded over your teeth. The fit is approximate at best — because human jaws do not work like a simple thermal press, the result rarely achieves the precision contact distribution needed for true bruxism protection.
Wearing a poorly fitted guard can actually create uneven force, potentially worsening jaw muscle tension and TMJ symptoms. For occasional light grinding, a chemist guard may serve as a short-term fix. For moderate to severe bruxism, it is not appropriate.
NHS dentists can provide custom-fitted night guards under Band 3 treatment, charged at £282.80. This requires a registered NHS dentist who offers this service, a clinical assessment confirming the need, and waiting for an NHS appointment — which can take weeks to months in many areas.
If approved, you receive a professionally made hard acrylic splint. These are effective and durable, but the process is slow, and many UK adults report difficulty accessing NHS dental appointments at all.
Private dentists take impressions and send them to a UK dental laboratory. Custom night guards are made from hard acrylic (preferred for heavy grinders) or a softer dual-laminate material. Cost range:
| Type | Private Dentist Cost | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Soft night guard | £100–£250 | 1–3 years |
| Hard acrylic splint | £250–£500 | 3–7+ years |
| Dual-laminate | £150–£350 | 2–5 years |
NewSmile offers a custom night guard via home impression kit for £109. The kit arrives by post, you take upper and lower impressions at home, and return them. The finished night guards are manufactured from dental-grade materials at an ISO-certified laboratory. NewSmile includes a 30-Day Perfect Fit Guarantee.
For mild to moderate bruxism, a well-fitted custom guard from an online service provides the same fundamental protection as a dentist-made guard — at a fraction of the cost.
| Option | Cost | Dentist Required? | Wait Time | Fit Quality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemist boil-and-bite | £15–£40 | No | Immediate | Poor |
| NewSmile UK | £109 | No | 2–3 weeks | Custom precision |
| Private dentist (soft) | £100–£250 | Yes | 1–2 weeks | Custom precision |
| NHS (Band 3) | £282.80 | Yes | Weeks–months | Custom precision |
| Private dentist (hard) | £250–£500 | Yes | 2–3 weeks | Custom precision |
UK private dentists rarely mention online custom guard services. There is an obvious commercial reason for this — they make money on impressions, laboratory fees marked up through their practice, and fitting appointments.
For severe bruxism with significant TMJ involvement or a history of dental restorations, in-person assessment adds genuine value. A dentist can evaluate occlusion and may recommend a harder material or a specific design.
For most adults with moderate grinding who need protection for enamel wear, an online custom guard is clinically comparable to a dentist-made soft guard — at roughly half the cost.
If your dentist has identified these signs and recommended a night guard, acting quickly protects the enamel you still have. Enamel does not grow back.
Custom Night Guard UK — £109, No Dentist Visit Needed
NewSmile ships a home impression kit for a custom-fitted night guard made to your exact bite. MHRA-approved, ISO-certified, 30-Day Perfect Fit Guarantee. We ship as soon as production is complete.
Yes, NHS dentists can provide custom night guards under Band 3 treatment at £282.80. However, this requires NHS registration, clinical assessment, and availability — waiting times vary significantly by area.
Chemist boil-and-bite guards offer limited protection. Their poor fit can create uneven bite forces that may worsen jaw tension. For genuine bruxism protection, a custom-fitted guard is strongly preferred.
Custom night guards cost £109 with NewSmile (online, no dentist required), £100–£500 at a private dentist, or £282.80 via NHS Band 3 treatment.
Yes. Online services like NewSmile provide custom night guards via a home impression kit — no dentist appointment required.
Soft custom night guards typically last 1–3 years with regular use. Hard acrylic guards last 3–7 years or more. Extending lifespan involves storing in a protective case, cleaning regularly, and avoiding heat exposure that warps the material.
Some UK dental insurance plans cover custom night guards, typically as part of preventative treatment. Check your specific policy — coverage varies significantly between providers. NHS treatment at Band 3 is the standard non-insured route.
By Joanna M.
Losing or breaking your retainer triggers an urgent problem. Teeth move quickly without retention — even after months or years of orthodontic treatment. The longer you go without a retainer, the more likely you are to see unwanted shifting.
In this guide, we cover every UK retainer replacement option in 2026, with honest cost comparisons, turnaround times, and a clear recommendation for each situation.
Orthodontic relapse — teeth drifting back towards their pre-treatment positions — happens faster than most people expect. Studies published in the American Journal of Orthodontics show measurable tooth movement within weeks of discontinuing retention. Front teeth, particularly lower incisors, are especially prone to relapse.
If your retainer breaks or is lost, replace it as soon as possible. A temporary fix is to wear your last aligner trays (if you still have them) to maintain position while waiting for a replacement.
If your original orthodontic treatment was on the NHS, you may be eligible for replacement retainers at the standard NHS Band 3 charge of £282.80 — or a reduced fee if you qualify for exemption.
However, many adults find that NHS provision does not cover retainer replacement as a standalone service, and are referred to private rates instead. NHS waiting times for orthodontic appointments can be several weeks or longer depending on your area.
A private dentist can take new impressions and have Essix (clear) retainers made at their laboratory. Typical costs in the UK in 2026:
| Retainer Type | Cost per Arch | Pair Total | Turnaround |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essix (clear) | £60–£145 | £120–£290 | 1–2 weeks |
| Hawley (wire) | £70–£150 | £140–£300 | 1–2 weeks |
| Vivera (Invisalign) | £125–£200/set | £250–£400 | 2–3 weeks |
Online retainer services ship a home impression kit to your address. You take upper and lower impressions at home, post them back, and receive your custom retainers by post. NewSmile charges £109 for a pair of custom Essix retainers.
The entire process typically takes 2–3 weeks from kit arrival to receiving your retainers. No dentist appointment is required, and you never need to leave your home. NewSmile retainers are MHRA-approved, BPA-free, and include a 30-Day Perfect Fit Guarantee.
Chemist boil-and-bite mouth guards are not a substitute for custom orthodontic retainers. They may cause unwanted tooth movement over time. They are appropriate only as an extremely short-term placeholder — days, not weeks — while waiting for a custom replacement.
| Option | Cost (pair) | Wait Time | Dentist Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| NewSmile UK | £109 | 2–3 weeks | No |
| Private Dentist (Essix) | £120–£290 | 1–2 weeks | Yes |
| NHS (Band 3) | £282.80 | 2–8+ weeks | Yes |
| Vivera (Invisalign) | £250–£400 | 2–3 weeks | Yes |
Replace Your Retainer from Home — £109, No Dentist Needed
NewSmile ships a home impression kit to anywhere in the UK. Take impressions, post them back, and receive your custom Essix retainer pair. MHRA-approved, 30-Day Perfect Fit Guarantee included.
Once your replacement retainer arrives, extending its lifespan saves you money and hassle. The most effective cleaning method for Essix retainers is an ultrasonic cleaner — it removes bacterial biofilm from the microscopic surface without abrasives or heat.
The Petal Ultrasonic Cleaner paired with Petal Cleaning Pods is designed specifically for clear retainers and night guards. A 5-minute cycle keeps the plastic clear and odour-free. Avoid brushing with toothpaste, which scratches the surface and shortens the retainer's life.
Retainer replacement costs in the UK range from £109 (NewSmile online, no dentist) to £120–£290 (private dentist Essix pair) to £282.80 (NHS Band 3 treatment).
NHS retainer replacements are typically available under Band 3 (£282.80) if you're within an active NHS treatment plan. Adults with completed treatment are usually referred to private rates. Waiting times for NHS orthodontic appointments vary significantly by area.
Online services like NewSmile take approximately 2–3 weeks. Private dentists typically take 1–2 weeks from appointment. NHS can take 2–8 weeks or longer depending on waiting lists.
Yes — teeth can show measurable movement within weeks of stopping retention, particularly the lower front teeth. Replace your retainer as soon as possible, and wear your last aligner tray in the interim if available.
Not necessarily. Online services like NewSmile allow you to take impressions at home and order a replacement without a dentist visit — suitable for replacing Essix (clear plastic) retainers on stable, treated teeth.
By Joanna M.
Impress — also known as Smile2Impress — markets itself as the affordable alternative to clinic retainers in the UK. Their subscription model promises GDC-registered oversight and replacement retainers built into the monthly cost. But when you do the maths, the picture changes quickly.
This review breaks down what Impress actually offers, what you pay over time, and how it compares to NewSmile's one-time £109 retainer approach.
Impress is a Spanish DTC dental brand operating in the UK through smile2impress.com. They offer clear aligner treatment as their primary product, with clear retainers available through a monthly subscription plan — marketed at approximately £25/month on a 12-month initial term. They emphasise GDC-registered dentist assessment, 24/7 app support, and two sets of retainers per order cycle.
NewSmile is a UK-based clear retainer service offering £109 for a pair of custom Essix retainers — made from a home impression kit you complete in your own time. No monthly subscription, no minimum term, no ongoing commitment unless you choose to reorder. NewSmile is MHRA-approved and ISO 13485 certified, with a 30-Day Perfect Fit Guarantee.
| Provider | Initial Cost | Year 1 Total | 3-Year Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| NewSmile UK | £109 | £109 | £218–£327 |
| Impress subscription | £25/month | £300 | £900 |
| Private Dentist (Essix) | £60–£145/arch | £120–£290 | £360+ |
| NHS (Band 3) | £282.80 | £282.80 | £452+ |
Over three years, a NewSmile customer who replaces annually spends around £327. An Impress subscriber pays £900 — nearly three times more.
Both Impress and NewSmile use Essix-style clear plastic retainers — the current standard for post-orthodontic retention. Essix retainers are virtually invisible and typically replaced every 6–18 months depending on wear.
Impress advertises GDC-registered dentist assessment. For aligner treatment involving tooth movement, GDC oversight is important. For replacement retainers on stable treated teeth, clinical assessment of the impressions is sufficient.
NewSmile's quality processes comply with UK MHRA regulations for medical devices, and their fit guarantee covers any alignment issues.
Get Your Custom Essix Retainer for £109 — No Subscription, No Commitment
NewSmile delivers a pair of custom clear retainers from a home impression kit, MHRA-approved and made to fit your teeth precisely. One price, no monthly fees.
For most UK patients replacing retainers after orthodontic treatment, NewSmile at £109 per pair is the more economical choice — by a significant margin. The Impress subscription costs £300 per year regardless of how often you actually need replacements.
Impress charges approximately £25 per month (£300/year) on their Light Plan subscription, including two sets of retainers and GDC-registered oversight via app.
NewSmile charges £109 for a pair of custom Essix retainers — no subscription or ongoing commitment required.
Yes. NewSmile offers custom clear retainers at a one-time cost of £109 per pair. You order when you need a replacement.
Essix retainers typically last 6–18 months. Most patients replace them annually. Proper cleaning and storage extends their lifespan.
Online custom services like NewSmile (£109 per pair) are consistently the most cost-effective option — cheaper than private dentists (£120–£290) and NHS (£282.80).
