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How to Use Chewies for Braces and Aligners
You’ve just opened your clear aligner starter kit — inside, you find your custom-made aligners, a removal tool with a hooked edge, and a soft, sponge-like cylindrical object. If you’re wondering what that last item is, you’re not alone. That small but mighty tool is called a Chewie, and it plays a key role in helping your aligners do their job more effectively.
Chewies are soft, flexible dental aids designed to help your aligners fit snugly and properly against your teeth. They may look simple, but using them correctly can make a big difference in the success and comfort of your treatment.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
Table of Contents
What Does Chewie Do?
A chewie, also known as aligner tray seaters, is a chewing device that you chew with your invisible braces (clear aligners) on to eliminate the air space between your aligners and the teeth. It provides a uniform pressure when chewed upon to seat the aligners properly with minimal effort.
How Do I Use Chewies?
- Firstly, your aligners should be worn and fitted over your teeth. Once you have done so, place the chewie between your teeth and bite down on it. You can bite down on it vertically or horizontally, whichever is suitable for you. Just don’t swallow it!
- Ensure you bite and hold for at least 5 seconds before moving on to the next position. Start from the back end of your mouth to the other. Repeat back and forth a few times to ensure all your teeth have bitten down on the aligner seaters (chewies).
- Repeat the process for approximately 5-10 mins in order for your aligners to be well-seated against your teeth. Do it at least TWICE a day (morning and night). A well-seated aligner would be more effective in the alignment of your teeth.
- Should you feel there are areas or teeth that aren’t fitting into the trays as well compared to others, do additional chewie exercises (biting on the chewies) on those specific areas to help with the fitting. Take note to use your orthodontic chewies each time you change to a new set of aligners so as to achieve the best possible teeth alignment.
How To Clean Chewies?
These dental chewies for aligners can be washed with mild soap and water. After using, give the chewies a wash and leave them in an airy area to dry. Do not keep them in containers with no ventilation. You’ll be able to use your chewies until they lose their elasticity.
Though wearing an aligners can be a tedious process, it will be worth it in the long run when you can see your smile start transforming. Start your invisible braces journey with a free smile consultation today.
