Many orthodontists give patients a few small foam or rubbery cylinders along with their aligners. They're called chewies (or aligner seaters), and they do more than you might think.
What are aligner chewies?
Chewies are soft cylinders about the size of a cotton roll. Biting on one pushes the aligner fully onto your teeth, closing the small air gaps that can form when you put aligners in by hand. A fully seated aligner applies pressure where it's supposed to.
When to use them
- The first days of a new tray, when it's tightest and least likely to sit fully
- After every meal, when you put your aligners back in
- When you see small gaps at the tips of your teeth
How to use aligner chewies
- Put your aligners in with your fingertips.
- Place a chewie between your teeth, starting at the back on one side.
- Bite down gently several times, holding each bite for a few seconds.
- Move it forward tooth by tooth to the front, then do the other side.
- Spend extra time on any tooth where you see a gap.
A common routine is 5–10 minutes, a few times a day. Your provider may suggest something different.
Tips
- Gentle is enough. You're pressing the aligner on, not chewing a steak.
- Do it while doing something else, like reading or watching a show.
- Keep them clean. Rinse after use, let them dry, and store them in a clean container.
- Replace them often. Worn, flattened, or smelly chewies should go.
Chewies vs. biting aligners into place
Gently biting on a chewie to finish seating is different from biting your aligners hard to snap them on. Always put aligners in with your fingertips first; hard biting can crack them.
When chewies aren't enough
If a gap doesn't close after several days of chewie use and good wear time, the aligner may not be tracking. Hold your current tray and contact your orthodontist. See what to do when aligners don't fit.
Track it instead of guessing
TrackMyAligners logs your wear time with one tap, reminds you when aligners are out too long, and tells you when to switch trays. Free on iPhone.
The bottom line
Chewies are a cheap, simple way to help each aligner seat fully. A few minutes a day, especially early in each tray, helps your treatment stay on track.
Frequently asked questions
How long should I use aligner chewies?
A common routine is 5–10 minutes, a few times a day, especially after putting aligners back in and during the first days of a new tray. Follow your provider's advice if it differs.
Do I need chewies?
Not everyone is given them. They help aligners seat fully, which is useful when a tray is tight or shows small gaps. Ask your orthodontist whether they're right for you.
How often should I replace chewies?
They wear out and absorb saliva, so replace them regularly, for example every week or two, or sooner if they look worn or smell.
Can chewies help with aligner pain?
Some people find that gentle chewing eases pressure in the first days of a tray. If you're very sore, go gently.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Your orthodontist or dentist knows your case, so follow their instructions if they differ from anything here.