Clear aligner therapy is a precise method for straightening teeth, relying on custom-made, clear plastic trays to apply controlled forces. To ensure the success of this treatment, an accessory called an aligner chewie plays an important part. These accessories are small, soft cylinders, typically made from medical-grade silicone or soft plastic. They are used by biting down on them while the aligners are in your mouth. Understanding how and when to use these simple devices is fundamental to keeping your treatment progressing as planned. This guide provides clear instructions for incorporating them into your daily routine.
The Purpose of Aligner Chewies
Clear aligners are engineered to move teeth by applying gentle, consistent pressure, but this precision depends on the aligner fitting perfectly over the tooth surface. The primary function of an aligner chewie is to achieve and maintain this flush fit, a process orthodontists call “seating” the aligner. When a new aligner is first placed, it is designed to be slightly misaligned with your current tooth position, which creates the necessary force for movement. Because of this intentional mismatch, small air gaps often exist between the plastic tray and the tooth.
These air gaps prevent the aligner from applying the precise, uniform pressure needed. If the trays are not fully seated, the intended force distribution is compromised, leading to poor “tracking.” Poor tracking can significantly slow down treatment or necessitate corrective measures. By using a chewie, the patient actively compresses the aligner material against the tooth, pushing out trapped air bubbles and eliminating the gap. This action ensures the aligner is fully engaged, allowing the programmed forces to be delivered consistently across the entire tooth surface.
Step-by-Step Guide for Effective Use
The process of using an aligner chewie begins after the clear aligner tray has been successfully inserted into your mouth. You should first use your fingers to press the aligner into place, beginning with the back teeth and working toward the front. Once the aligner is generally in position, place the chewie between your upper and lower teeth.
Begin by gently biting down on the chewie, using a firm but controlled pressure, not aggressive clenching. The goal is to compress the soft material and push the aligner onto the teeth, rather than simply chewing vigorously. Hold the bite for several seconds to fully seat the aligner in that specific area. Release the pressure slightly, then move the chewie to an adjacent section of the teeth, repeating the gentle biting and holding action.
Continue this rolling motion, moving the chewie systematically from one side of the mouth to the other, ensuring that every tooth surface under the aligner is targeted. It is important to focus on the posterior teeth, such as the molars, where aligners often have the weakest seating. Consistently working the chewie across the entire dental arch ensures uniform pressure, maximizing the contact between the aligner and the tooth structure.
Usage Frequency and Timing
The recommended schedule for using aligner chewies ensures the trays remain fully seated throughout the treatment cycle. A standard recommendation is to use the chewie for approximately five to ten minutes per session. This active seating process should be performed at least twice a day, typically in the morning and again before bedtime, to maintain a secure fit.
The use of chewies is especially important when you transition to a new set of aligners. When a fresh tray is introduced, the initial resistance and tightness are highest, making it the most likely time for the aligner to be unseated or have air gaps. During the first two or three days of a new tray, increase the frequency of chewie use to ensure the aligner settles onto the teeth quickly and accurately.
It is advised to use the chewie every time you re-insert your aligners after removing them for eating or drinking. Even a brief period out of the mouth can cause the aligner to lose its seated position. A quick one- to two-minute session with the chewie helps snap the tray back into its proper place. Consistent use throughout the process helps guarantee predictable progress.
Maintenance and Replacement
Proper care of the aligner chewie ensures that it remains hygienic and continues to function effectively throughout its lifespan. Because the chewie is used inside the mouth and becomes saturated with saliva, it should be cleaned after every use. A simple rinse under warm water is sufficient for a quick clean, but periodically, a more thorough cleansing is recommended.
The chewie can be cleaned using a mild, unscented soap and water, or by gently brushing it with a toothbrush. It is important to avoid using harsh cleaning chemicals or boiling water, as excessive heat can cause the material to degrade or warp, which compromises its elasticity. After cleaning, the chewie should be allowed to air-dry completely before being stored in a clean, dry container to prevent bacterial growth.
Aligner chewies are not designed to last indefinitely and will eventually require replacement. Signs of wear and tear, such as fraying, cracking, or a significant loss of elasticity, indicate that the accessory is no longer able to provide the necessary firm compression. A worn chewie cannot exert enough force to properly seat the aligner, which defeats its purpose. Replacing the chewie when it begins to feel too soft or shows visible signs of deterioration ensures that the aligner seating process remains efficient.