Guards + Retainers
Custom Night Guard
Retainer
Emergency Order
Whitening
Whitening Kit
Teeth Whitening Gel
Dual-Action Foam
Cleaning + Care
Ultrasonic Cleaner Pro
Water Flosser
UV Toothbrush Sanitizer
Accessories
Guard Removal Tool
Replacement Nozzles
SmileDirectClub shut down in September 2023 after filing for bankruptcy, leaving hundreds of thousands of customers without access to retainers, support, or any path to continue their treatment. If you were an SDC customer, here is what your options look like now.
What Happened to SmileDirectClub
SmileDirectClub filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and ceased all operations on September 29, 2023. The shutdown was immediate: customer service went dark, retainer orders stopped, and the app that managed treatment plans became unavailable. Customers mid-treatment had no way to finish, and customers who needed replacement retainers had nowhere to turn.
The closure affected an estimated 100,000 active customers. A class-action settlement has provided limited compensation for some, but it does not replace the dental devices people still need.
What SDC Customers Need Now
Most former SmileDirectClub customers need one of three things: a retainer to maintain their alignment results, a night guard if they grind their teeth, or both. None of these require going back to an orthodontist or paying dentist prices.
The DTC model SDC pioneered, taking impressions at home and having devices made in a certified lab, still exists. Remi uses the same process for both custom night guards and custom clear retainers, and ships directly to your door.
SmileDirectClub vs. Remi vs. the Dentist
| SmileDirectClub | Remi | Dentist | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Still operating (DTC) | No | Yes | Yes |
| Night guard | No | Yes, from $189 | Yes, $400–$800 |
| Retainer | Was yes | Yes, from $99 | Yes, $200–$500 |
| At-home impressions | Yes | Yes | No |
| Custom fit | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Free replacements | No | Yes | No |
How to Get a Night Guard or Retainer After SmileDirectClub
The process at Remi is the same at-home approach SDC used, and takes about two weeks:
- Order your custom night guard or custom clear retainer. Your impression kit ships the same day.
- Take your impressions at home using the included trays and putty. It takes about 10 minutes.
- Mail them back in the prepaid envelope.
- Your device is fabricated in a certified US dental lab and shipped directly to you.
Every order includes free replacements. If you need another retainer or night guard down the line, you are covered without reordering or paying again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did SmileDirectClub shut down?
Yes. SmileDirectClub filed for bankruptcy and closed all operations on September 29, 2023. The company no longer fulfills orders or provides customer support.
Can I still get retainers from SmileDirectClub?
No. SDC is no longer operating. Former customers need to find a new provider for retainer replacements.
What is the best SmileDirectClub alternative for retainers?
Remi offers the same at-home impression process SDC used, with custom-fit clear retainers starting at $99 and free replacements included.
Does Remi make night guards too?
Yes. Remi makes custom night guards using the same at-home impression process, starting at $189. If you grind your teeth, a custom-fit night guard is the most effective option available without a dentist visit.
How is Remi different from SmileDirectClub?
Remi focuses on night guards and retainers rather than aligners. There are no subscriptions, no app, and no offices. You take impressions at home, mail them back, and receive your device in about two weeks. Free replacements are included with every order.