What Happened to Smile Direct Club?
SmileDirectClub filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy and ceased all operations in December 2023 — no wind-down, no customer transition. All SDC aligner shipments, retainer orders, and customer support stopped immediately. An estimated 1.8+ million customers were left without access to SDC's proprietary retainer system or ongoing treatment support.
The Two Most Urgent SDC Customer Needs
1. Retainer Replacement After SDC Shutdown
SDC retainers are no longer available through any channel. If your current SDC retainer is worn, cracked, or no longer fits, you need a new set from an alternative provider.
NewSmile offers custom Essix retainers for $99 (both arches) using a home impression kit — the same direct-to-consumer process SDC used. No dentist visit, no appointment, no clinic markup. Mail-in impressions, lab-fabricated to your current tooth position, delivered to your door.
2. Continuing Aligner Treatment After SDC
If you were mid-treatment when SDC closed, you need an in-person orthodontic evaluation before starting a new aligner series. No DTC brand can safely continue a partially-completed case without reviewing your current bite and tooth position. See an orthodontist or general dentist before ordering aligners from any new provider.
Best Smile Direct Club Alternatives in 2026
| Alternative | Best For | Retainers | Aligners |
|---|---|---|---|
| NewSmile | Retainer replacement | $99 both arches | Yes |
| AlignerCo | New aligner treatment | Yes (USD pricing) | Yes |
| Dentist/orthodontist | Complex or mid-treatment cases | $200–$500+/arch | Invisalign ($3,000–$9,000) |
Getting Replacement Retainers After SDC: Step-by-Step
- Take new impressions of your current tooth position using a home kit — do not use old SDC records
- Order from a current provider like NewSmile
- Receive your custom Essix retainer in approximately 2 weeks
- Wear nightly to hold your current tooth position
Important: If your teeth have shifted significantly since SDC treatment ended, new impressions will capture your current position — the retainer will hold where your teeth are now, not where SDC left them. If you're concerned about significant shifting, a dental consultation is worthwhile before ordering.
Lost your SDC retainer? NewSmile is the direct replacement.
Custom Essix retainer, both arches, $99. Home impression kit — no dentist visit. Ships in about 2 weeks.
FAQ
Is Smile Direct Club permanently closed?
Yes. SmileDirectClub filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in December 2023 and all operations ceased permanently. The company is not being acquired or restarted.
Can I still get Smile Direct Club retainers?
No. SDC's retainer orders, app, and customer support are all shut down. You need to order from an alternative provider using new impressions of your current tooth position.
What is the cheapest SDC retainer replacement?
NewSmile offers custom Essix retainers for $99 (both arches) using a home impression kit — the most affordable option that doesn't require a dentist visit. Online lab prices are $99–$140 vs $200–$500+ at a dental clinic.
Did Byte also shut down?
Yes. Byte, another SDC competitor, also ceased operations in early 2024. Customers needing post-Byte retainers face the same situation — take new impressions and order from an active provider like NewSmile.
References
