The act of chewing is fundamental across species and serves various purposes – from breaking down food to relieving stress and aiding development. The diverse array of “chewies” available today reflects these multi-faceted needs, catering to human orthodontic journeys, canine well-being, and even sensory regulation. Let’s unpack each significant category.

 Orthodontic Chewies: The Unsung Heroes of Aligner Treatment

For anyone embarking on the journey of clear aligners (like Invisalign) or traditional braces, “orthodontic chewies” are likely to become a familiar, albeit small, companion. These are often cylindrical, soft silicone or rubber devices designed to be bitten down upon.

What are Orthodontic Chewies and Why are They Used?

Orthodontic chewies, also known as aligner chewies, chew aligners, or seating chewies, are small, soft, cylindrical pieces made from food-grade silicone or other safe, pliable materials. They come in various colors and sometimes flavors (mint, grape, etc.).

Their primary purpose is to help seat clear aligners properly and consistently. When you put in a new set of aligners, they often feel tight and may not fully “snap” into place, leaving small air gaps between your teeth and the aligner. This “unseated” aligner means the prescribed orthodontic forces aren’t being delivered precisely, which can slow down treatment progress or result in “tracking” issues (where the aligner no longer fits correctly due to teeth not moving as planned).

How they work: When you bite down on a chewie, it applies gentle, even pressure across the aligner, pushing it firmly onto the teeth. This ensures:

Optimal Aligner Seating: Eliminating air gaps and ensuring the aligner is fully engaged with every tooth.

Precise Force Delivery: Guarantees that the orthodontic forces intended by your treatment plan are accurately transmitted to your teeth.

Faster and More Predictable Movement: When aligners are properly seated, teeth respond more efficiently to treatment.

Reduced Discomfort: While they may feel initially awkward, proper seating can actually reduce overall discomfort and pressure points from ill-fitting aligners.

Helps with Elastics (for braces): For traditional braces, chewies can help seat wires and brackets, or assist in seating elastics more comfortably.

How to Use Orthodontic Chewies: A Step-by-Step Guide

Using orthodontic chewies is simple but crucial for treatment success.

Insert Aligners: First, put your clear aligners in your mouth as usual. Ensure they are generally in place.

Position the Chewie: Place the chewie between your upper and lower teeth, targeting a specific area where the aligner feels loose or where you see an air gap (often in the molars first, then working forward).

Bite Down Gently but Firmly: Bite down on the chewie for a few seconds. You should feel the aligner seating more firmly onto your teeth.

Move Around the Arch: After biting in one spot, move the chewie to another section of your aligner (e.g., from one side to the other, then to the front teeth) and repeat the biting motion. Work your way around the entire arch, ensuring all teeth are properly seated.

Duration: Your orthodontist will provide specific instructions, but generally, a few minutes of consistent chewing per aligner insertion (or per day) is recommended, especially for the first few days of a new aligner set. Many recommend chewing for 5-10 minutes total per day, or 1-2 minutes every time you put your aligner back in after eating.

Clean the Chewie: After use, you can rinse your chewie with water and let it air dry. Store it in a clean case.

What are Dog Chewies and Their Purpose?

Dog chewies are items specifically designed for dogs to chew on. They fall into two main categories:

Edible Chewies: These are consumable treats made from various animal products (rawhide, bully sticks, dental chews, jerky, bones) or plant-based ingredients. They are meant to be slowly consumed.

Non-Edible Chewies (Chew Toys): These are durable toys made from rubber, nylon, rope, or other robust materials. They are designed for prolonged chewing and are not meant to be ingested.

Purposes of Dog Chewies:

Dental Health: Chewing helps to scrape away plaque and tartar buildup from teeth, reducing the risk of gum disease, bad breath, and dental decay. Many edible dental chewies are specifically formulated with enzymes or textures for superior plaque removal.

Mental Stimulation and Boredom Relief: Chewing is a natural, instinctual behavior for dogs. It provides mental engagement and can alleviate boredom, especially for dogs left alone for periods. It can also help prevent destructive chewing on household items.

Stress and Anxiety Reduction: The act of chewing is self-soothing for dogs. It can help reduce stress, anxiety (e.g., separation anxiety), and frustration. It’s a natural outlet for pent-up energy.

Puppy Teething Relief: For puppies, chewing helps alleviate the discomfort of teething as their adult teeth emerge. Chewies provide a safe and appropriate outlet for this natural urge.

Jaw Strength and Exercise: Regular chewing helps maintain strong jaw muscles.

Nutritional Benefits (Edible Chewies): Some edible chewies offer supplemental nutrients, while others are simply high-value treats for enjoyment.

Types of Dog Chewies: Choosing Wisely

Choosing the right dog chewie is crucial for your dog’s safety and satisfaction.

Edible Chewies:

Rawhide: Made from the inner layer of animal hides. Pros: Long-lasting, satisfying. Cons: Can be a choking hazard if swallowed in large pieces, some dogs have difficulty digesting them, potential for chemical processing. Recommendation: Choose reputable brands and supervise your dog.

Bully Sticks (Pizzle Sticks): Dried beef pizzle. Pros: Highly palatable, long-lasting, fully digestible. Cons: Can be expensive, some odor, high in calories.

Dental Chews: Often star-shaped, zigzag, or brush-like. Pros: Specifically designed for dental cleaning, often digestible, comes in various sizes. Cons: Can be calorie-dense, less long-lasting than some other options.

Jerky Chews: Dried meat strips. Pros: High protein, palatable. Cons: Can be quickly consumed, varying quality, look for single-ingredient options.

Natural Bones (e.g., Femur Bones, Marrow Bones): Raw or smoked. Pros: Very long-lasting, great for dental health. Cons: Can be too hard for some dogs (risk of tooth fracture), risk of splintering (cooked bones are especially dangerous), potential for bacterial contamination (raw). Recommendation: Always consult your vet about bone safety. Never give cooked bones.

Antlers: Naturally shed deer or elk antlers. Pros: Extremely durable, virtually odorless, low-fat. Cons: Can be very hard (risk of tooth fracture, especially for aggressive chewers or those with weaker teeth), expensive.

Himalayan Yak Chews: Hardened cheese made from yak and cow milk. Pros: Very hard and long-lasting, digestible, low odor. Cons: Can be expensive, still a risk of tooth fracture if too hard for a particular dog.

Non-Edible Chewies (Chew Toys):

Rubber Toys (e.g., Kongs): Made from durable natural or synthetic rubber. Pros: Extremely tough, can be stuffed with treats for extended engagement, bounces unpredictably (good for play). Cons: Some dogs may not be interested if not stuffed, can be expensive.

Nylon Chew Toys: Made from hard, durable nylon plastic. Pros: Very long-lasting, good for aggressive chewers, come in various shapes and textures. Cons: Not digestible (replace if chunks break off), can be very hard (risk of tooth fracture if too hard for dog’s chewing style).

Rope Toys: Made from braided cotton or synthetic fibers. Pros: Good for tug-of-war, helps clean teeth (fibers act like floss). Cons: Can unravel (risk of ingestion and blockages), some dogs ingest strands, not suitable for aggressive shredders.

Benebone/Wishbone Style: Made from durable nylon or similar material, flavored. Pros: Very appealing due to scent/flavor, robust. Cons: Not digestible, monitor for wear.

FAQs

What are chewies?

Chewies refer to two distinct types:

Orthodontic chewies: Soft cylindrical devices made of styrene copolymer used with clear aligners (like Invisalign) to ensure a snug fit between the tray and teeth. 

Sensory chewies: Oral-motor tools—such as chew necklaces, tubes, or pencil toppers—designed to provide safe, oral sensory input for individuals with sensory-seeking behaviors 

 How do orthodontic chewies help?

They correct air gaps by helping aligners fully seat over teeth, which enhances treatment effectiveness .

The gentle biting motion promotes better tracking and adherence, potentially keeping treatment on schedule .

They can reduce discomfort by massaging aligners onto teeth when switching to a new set 

How and when should I use orthodontic chewies?

Insert aligners, then place a chewie between your teeth.

Bite down for 5–10 minutes, moving across different teeth to seat the tray effectively 

Use twice daily, ideally after insertion and before bed, or whenever an area feels loose 

Clean chewies thoroughly after each use with soap and warm water 

 Can chewies speed up orthodontic treatment?

They don’t shorten your treatment time directly, but by ensuring a proper fit, they prevent delays caused by ill-fitting trays .

A securely seated aligner allows planned tooth movements to happen as scheduled 

 Are orthodontic chewies reusable?

Yes. They can be reused until they lose elasticity or become unsanitary. Proper cleaning helps maintain hygiene and longevity .

What are sensory chewies and who can benefit?

Sensory chewies are therapeutic oral tools used by individuals—often those with autism, ADHD, or SPD—to fulfill sensory needs. They come in various shapes, textures, and resistances to help:

Reduce anxiety and stress 

Enhance focus and concentration 

Offer a safe alternative to chewing on clothing or non-edible objects 

Strengthen oral motor muscles (jaw, lips, tongue) 

How do sensory chewies help regulate behavior?

Research shows that chewing provides proprioceptive input, helping calm the nervous system and improve self-regulation . Feedback from chewies helps users stay focused, manage stress, and reduce impulsive behaviors 

 Which type of sensory chewy is best?

Choose according to the individual’s needs and strength:

Soft: For light chewers or sensory starters

Medium: Best for moderate oral input seekers

Firm/Extra-firm: Ideal for intense chewers, durable materials needed 

Factors to consider: texture, size, cleaning ease, and placement (necklaces, tubes, pencil toppers) 

 Are chewies safe? Any risks?

Orthodontic chewies are safe when cleaned regularly.

Sensory chewies must be non-toxic, free from choking hazards, and supervised for children 

Replace them at first sign of wear or damage 

 Where can I get chewies?

Orthodontic chewies: Provided by your orthodontist or available online (Amazon, dental stores) 

Sensory chewies: From OT suppliers and trusted brands (Ark™, Chewigem™, Munchables™) that offer clear labeling and safety certifications .

In summary

From guiding orthodontic alignment to promoting canine dental health, soothing sensory needs, or simply delighting our taste buds, the vast world of “chewies” is united by the fundamental act of chewing. Each category serves a distinct and valuable purpose, reflecting the diverse needs across species and developmental stages. Understanding these distinctions allows for informed choices, ensuring safety, effectiveness, and satisfaction, whether you’re seeking to perfect a smile, keep a pet healthy, aid a sensory journey, or simply enjoy a delightful treat.

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