Do "chewies" and "munchies" help with orthodontic aligner therapy? Dissolvable options like Movemints may help with treatment times and reduce decay risk.
By Sharon Boyd, MA, RDH
What Are Invisalign Chewies, Movemints?
Removable orthodontic aligner patients are always instructed not to eat or drink anything while wearing their appliances, sugar-free chewing gum and mints included. However, there's one exception to the rule: orthodontic "chewies."
Munchies, Movemints, and Invisalign Chewies are just a few examples of chewable devices that are specifically used and chewed on during orthodontic therapy with removable aligners. Movemints are edible, uniquely shaped mints designed to bite down a certain way until they dissolve. Chewies (by Invisalign) are tube-shaped devices about the size of a cotton roll. Like Chewies are Munchies, which come in various textures to fit patient preferences and needs.
Biting down on these unique orthodontic products helps patients' aligners better conform to their teeth, allowing their orthodontic treatment to be more effective.
When Are Orthodontic Occlusal "Chewies" Used?
While some claim that orthodontic chewies accelerate aligner treatment, the goal is to help keep tooth movement on track as planned. This reduces the risk of delays and complications, shortening patients' time in orthodontic appliances, especially when aligners may not seem to fit correctly during patient transition periods.
Examples of when a patient might be instructed to use a chewable mint or orthodontic positioning device:
- As they are transitioning to a new aligner
- Replacing an aligner after having it out of their mouth for some time
- When their aligner doesn't seem to fit over their teeth correctly
- Ensuring the entire aligner is entirely "seated."
For instance, if a patient is progressing to a new pair of alignment trays and one does not set over the teeth correctly, the Movemint or "munchie" is chewed in that area of their mouth to help seat the aligner in that space. Patients may also be encouraged to use their chewable orthodontic aid when replacing their aligners after meals to ensure they are entirely seated. In addition, the biting pressure applied to these appliance-safe products helps gently establish the aligner over the teeth without damaging the patient's orthodontic tray, teeth, or soft tissues.
How to Use Movemints, Chewies, Munchies
- Place the aligner in the mouth.
- Identify any areas where the aligner does not appear to be fully seated.
- Place the chewable device on top of the aligner in that space.
- Bite down to help "seat" the aligner.
- Hold the device in place for several minutes.
- Reposition the Munchie/Chewie as needed.
Most professionals recommend using products like Movemints and Munchies for at least five minutes daily. After that, patients can choose to use them as often as needed, such as each time the aligners are re-inserted, like after meals or brushing and flossing.
Other Advantages of Orthodontic Chew Mints
Brands of orthodontic chewables such as Movemints serve several purposes and are dissolvable, making them extremely easy for patients to use. Unlike reusable chewies, Movemints doubles as a sugar-free mint that contains a therapeutic dose of xylitol in each one, serving as a breath mint that helps combat tooth decay and fight dry mouth. In addition, as a single-use product, there's no need to sanitize, store, or reuse them.
In addition to helping seat orthodontic aligners, these soft, chewable appliances help stimulate blood flow, which inherently assists tooth movement. They also are said to reduce soreness and discomfort with regular use.
When to Recommend to Patients
Chewable orthodontic bite aids can be suggested to patients interested in improving their removable aligners' fit, comfort, and efficacy. Particularly those who have concerns about ensuring their new alignment trays are fully seated or want to expedite the duration of their treatment. Dissolvable options such as Movemints can also be recommended to patients who prefer to use a product that helps with odor, dry mouth, and combatting tooth decay (as they contain xylitol.) Patients with concerns about sore teeth, prolonged treatment, difficulty seating their aligners, or orthodontic trays that do not seem to fit over their teeth may benefit from these optional orthodontic products.
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Sharon Boyd, MA, RDH — Sharon has over 20 years of dental industry experience and is the founder of DentaSpeak, LLC. In addition to being a registered hygienist, she is a full-time patient education professional with a special interest in strategic dental communications. She often collaborates with practitioners and patients, bridging the gap between care needs and patient concerns. Sharon is an Ironman band mom and enjoys volunteering at her family's church.
