Oral Health
Teeth Straightening
Teeth Whitening
Updated on May 19, 2023
20 min read

Byte Aligners Review

NewMouth is reader supported. We may earn a commission if you purchase something using one of our links. Advertising Disclosure.

Byte Review Summary

  • Byte® is a brand of at-home clear aligners that launched in 2019. They with over 200 licensed doctors, orthodontists, and dentists across the U.S. who oversee the treatment plans.
  • Byte treatment typically takes 4 to 6 months. However, the type of aligner chosen and the level and type of malocclusion you have may influence this timeframe.
  • Byte's All-Day Aligners cost $1,999, while their At-Night Aligners cost $2,399.
  • Bye aligners have pros and cons, and you must consider these carefully before starting treatment.

Why Trust Our Review of Byte?

1. Aligner Experts

NewMouth is a leading and trusted online resource for dental information, including orthodontics, at-home aligners vs. in-office aligners, and more. We have been researching and writing about clear aligners for over 3 years.

We have a dedicated team of medical writers, expert researchers, licensed dental professionals, and medical reviewers who create and oversee every piece of content published on our site. Our goal is to provide credible, accurate, and up-to-date content that is free and accessible to everyone looking for dental care. 

2. Extensive Research and Testing

We have determined Byte as the best option for convenient, at-home teeth straightening. We did this by:

  • Spending 100+ hours researching Byte, their process, safety standards, and more (and continuing to analyze trends as they change) 
  • Reading through thousands of customer reviews from multiple sources
  • Having three of our writers test out Byte’s at-home impression kit
  • Talking to five industry experts (licensed dental professionals and Byte itself) on the benefits and risks of at-home teeth straightening
  • Comparing Byte to six other popular at-home aligner brands
  • Reading hundreds of research papers on the safety, effectiveness, and concerns of clear aligners 
  • Comparing at-home aligners and in-office aligners (like Invisalign) to ensure we recommend the proper treatment for different needs 

3. Comprehensive Review Process

After extensive research and product testing, this article also underwent an intensive review process:

  1. The article was reviewed and fact-checked by two in-house editors 
  2. One of our in-house dentists reviewed the article for accuracy 
  3. The article is updated and reviewed again every month to ensure pricing, product details, and other specs are up-to-date
Byte Aligners Individual 2F
NewMouth / Alyssa Hill

How Byte Works

You can get started with Byte in a few simple steps: 

1. Order a starter kit and take your impressions

The first step is to order an impression kit on Byte's website. Unlike Invisalign, Byte treatment is completed 100% remotely.

The kit should arrive within a week. Once you receive it, take the teeth impressions using the impression tray, smile stretcher, and putty.

The impressions should be returned to Byte within 3 days of receiving the kit (using the return shipping box provided). Shipping is free. 

If you are not a candidate for Byte aligners, you will get a full refund for the impression kit. If you are a candidate, there is no obligation to purchase the aligners.

Byte Aligners Individual 3F
NewMouth / Alyssa Hill

How to Take Impressions

Within the kit is a pamphlet with step-by-step instructions on how to take the impressions:

  1. Open the kit and remove the items
  2. Take the light and dark putty provided with the kit and combine them (roll them into a ball)
  3. Fit the putty within the impression tray provided
  4. Place the tray in your mouth and bite down for 3 ½ minutes, applying constant, even pressure throughout

Repeat this process four times (roughly 20 minutes) to create two top and two bottom impressions. Place the impressions in the impression tray box. Seal the box and mail it back using the return shipping address provided (shipping is free). 

Note: Don't touch the impression putty when removing the trays and afterward. This can alter the impressions, requiring you to retake them.

2. Review and approve your treatment plan

After reviewing your teeth impressions, a customized treatment plan is created using Byte's SmileScience system.

Dr. Jon Marashi, a cosmetic dentist in Hollywood, created the SmileScience system. It incorporates aesthetic precision using five points of analysis, which helps determine the best tooth placement for your unique facial structure. The result is a digital 3D model that shows what your smile might look like from start to finish.

Social 6 Clear Aligner Treatment Plan
sample 3d treatment of bottom teeth
top 3d scan of byte
sample 3d treatment of top teeth

After you and a licensed dentist approve the 3D treatment plan, Byte will deliver all of the aligners (with step-by-step instructions) straight to your door. These aligners will move your teeth a little at a time. After one set of aligners is worn for a week or two, you’ll move on to the next set. This cycle continues until your new smile is achieved. 

As a Byte customer, you’ll also receive the HyperByte®, an FDA-cleared dental movement acceleration device. This device may help move teeth faster when used with your aligners for 5 minutes daily.

3. Track progress through the My Byte app

You'll use the My Byte app to view your treatment details, submit progress photos, and chat with customer support via live chat. You can also set up notifications for when to switch aligners, ensuring you stay on track throughout treatment.

My Byte App

4. Take care of your aligners with BrightByte® 3-in-1 Foam

If you're wearing the aligners for 22+ hours a day, why not whiten your teeth too? Byte includes a BrightByte system with every treatment plan. It is a 3-in-1 foam cleanser, whitener, and breath freshener.

brightbyte whitening treatment

To use the BrightByte whitening treatment, follow these steps:

  1. Brush your teeth to make sure they are clean
  2. Apply a pump of BrightByte foam into your aligner or retainer trays
  3. Spread the foam evenly to cover the inside of the aligners
  4. Put the aligners over your teeth and go about your day

5. Wear your retainer as prescribed after treatment

After treatment, you will receive a custom-made retainer that ensures your teeth stay in place.

Your first set of retainers is included in the total treatment cost. The retainers are made for comfortable overnight wear. They also include a teeth whitening foam (BrightByte) and a carrying case.

How Long Does Byte Treatment Take?

Byte treatment typically takes 4 to 6 months. Braces can take up to 24 months to straighten your teeth, while Invisalign takes between 12 and 18 months.

Treatment length varies based on several factors. First, as with all aligners, wearing them daily is required for optimal treatment outcomes. 

Two other factors influencing Byte treatment time are the type of aligner chosen and the level and type of malocclusion you have. Malocclusion refers to teeth misalignment.

The treatment length will vary depending on the type of Byte aligner you choose:

  • All-Day Aligners — these aligners are worn for 22 hours daily. The average initial treatment plan for Byte's All-Day Aligners is 4 months, excluding any adjustments. They cost $1,999.
  • At-Night Aligners — these aligners straighten your teeth while you sleep and are worn for 10+ hours daily. The average initial treatment plan for Byte’s At-Night Aligners is 5 to 6 months, excluding any adjustments. They cost $2,399.

Breakdown of Byte's Treatment Timeline

Here is the general timeline for treatment with Byte:

Before Treatment

Byte does not offer in-person studio locations; ordering an at-home kit is the only way to get started. The kit generally arrives within a week. Within it are the impression kit, smile stretcher, and putty.

During Treatment 

After they receive the kit within a week or two, one of Byte’s dental professionals will review your impressions. If approved, a customized Byte treatment plan will be created. If you approve the plan, a series of custom aligners will be mailed to you within 4 to 6 weeks.

Each aligner is made for a different projected stage of treatment and should be worn sequentially. The average treatment time is 4 to 6 months.

After Treatment

After treatment, a custom-made retainer will be used to ensure your teeth remain in alignment. The retainer is worn every night for 6 months. After that, it’s replaced with a new one. You'll have to wear a retainer indefinitely to keep your teeth straight.

Byte also offers overcorrection aligners. These aligners make “refinements” to your treatment by moving your teeth past their desired positions. This is done purposefully.

The idea is to compensate for dental relapse or when teeth revert to their original positions pre-treatment. Overcorrection aligners can be used midway through treatment or at the end to correct errors.

Byte Aligners Individual 1F
NewMouth / Alyssa Hill

How Much Does Byte Cost?

Byte aligners cost between $1,999 and $2,399. The impression kit costs an additional $95. This covers all clear aligners, one set of retainers, and remote monitoring.

You can also pay for treatment with affirm or a bytepay™ monthly payment plan.


All-Day Aligners

Total cost: $1,999

$70/month for 32 months
$249 down payment
100% approval with no credit impact

At-Night Aligners

Total cost: $2,399

$84/month for 32 months
$299 down payment
100% approval with no credit impact

Disclaimer: NewMouth is concerned about the risks of night aligners — learn why here.

Additional Costs

The clear aligners included in treatment plans will be the bulk of the cost for Byte. 

However, additional costs include:

Additional Aligners or Retainers

The cost of replacing any Byte aligners or lost or stolen retainers is $129. If you purchase the Byte Protection Plan, Byte will provide any replacements free of charge. 

As part of Byte’s Byte for Life Guarantee, extra aligners are provided for post-treatment issues.

Impression Kit

To begin treatment, you need first to take impressions of your teeth. A Byte impression kit costs $95. 

If you are ineligible for Byte treatment, this cost will be refunded, with no obligation to purchase the aligners.

Protection Plan

With the purchase of a protection plan, any lost or stolen retainers will be replaced for no extra cost. 

Does Byte Accept Insurance?

Byte aligners may be covered by insurance if your plan provides orthodontic benefits. You will be reimbursed directly by your insurance company. 

Byte can provide the forms you need to file the claim with your insurance company. However, they will not accept direct payments from your provider. Visit byte.com to see if you qualify. 

After submitting your insurance information, Byte’s reimbursement specialists will verify your coverage. If your provider is partnered with Byte, you may be eligible for discounts on the price before you pay. 

Byte’s insurance partners include:

  • Aetna
  • Guardian
  • Anthem (including Blue Cross and Blue Shield)

Can Byte Guarantee Reimbursement?  

Byte doesn't guarantee you'll get reimbursed. You’ll need to check if your insurance policy covers clear aligner treatment for adults.

How to Check Your Coverage 

There are several ways to check if your insurance covers clear treatment. First, you can speak with Byte’s team of specialists to help you check your coverage.

You can also check coverage yourself. Some insurance companies let you review your policy details online.

You can call if you're still unsure if your plan covers Byte treatment. You can usually find your insurer’s phone number on the reverse side of your health insurance card.

Most states also offer consumer assistance programs (CAPs), which provide free counseling services to consumers trying to understand their health care choices.

Your state’s CAP can help determine what options your plan gives you if you're eligible.

What to Do if You’re Denied Coverage

You'll have to contact your insurance carrier directly for clarification if your claim is denied. If you disagree with their reasoning, you can submit an appeal. 

There are two steps to this:

  1. First, the insurance company will review the denial internally. 
  2. If they come back with the same decision, you can submit the appeal to an independent government body (state or federal). This is called an external review. 

If this body finds the denial invalid, it can reverse the decision.

Other Financing Options

Here are alternative ways to pay for Byte treatment:

HSA/FSA

You can use your HSA or FSA debit card to pay for any Byte products or treatments. Your insurance may reimburse you for a portion of the expenses. 

You can also split the cost of treatment between your insurance and your HSA or FSA card.

BytePay

This is a monthly payment plan with a 100% approval rate. A credit check is not required. 

With a $249 down payment, you can start treatment with Byte’s All-Day Aligners. You’ll then make 32 monthly payments of $70/month.

Byte All-Day vs. At-Night Aligners

Byte offers two different treatment options. Here's how they compare:

Byte All-Day Aligners Review

Byte's All-Day Aligners cost $1,999. They must be worn for 22+ hours a day. Because these aligners stay on your teeth for nearly 24 hours, treatment can take as little as 4 months. They should only be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and other oral hygiene practices.

Additionally, according to Byte, you'll use the HyperByte device for 5 minutes daily to accelerate tooth movement and reduce discomfort.

Byte At-Night Aligners Review

Byte's At-Night Aligners cost $2,399 and require 10+ hours of continuous daily wear. They cost slightly more than the traditional aligners because treatment takes longer. The average treatment time is between 5 and 6 months, sometimes more.

These aligners are designed to be worn while you sleep rather than for 22+ hours a day. Like the All-Day Aligners, you'll use the HyperByte device for 5 minutes daily to accelerate treatment and reduce pain.

Which is Better?

Although night aligners may be convenient, we do not recommend them over traditional aligners. Many oral health experts are concerned about their safety and effectiveness.

There is no scientific proof that night aligners are safe. They may actually do more harm to your teeth than good.9 From a clinical perspective, there are also concerns about what could go wrong if aligners are only worn for a few hours each day (less than 20 to 22 hours).9, 10

Every additional hour that you are not wearing the aligners increases the likelihood of your teeth shifting in an undesired direction.9, 10

In addition, without a longer and more consistent wear schedule, your teeth can be left in a limbo state of inflammation. This means it would take your teeth and gums much longer to heal, if at all.9

Other side effects and risks of night aligners include:

  • More discomfort. When starting a new aligner set, you may experience discomfort for a few days. This is completely normal. The discomfort will last longer if you leave your aligners out for more than a few hours. This is because your teeth can revert to their original position.
  • Longer treatment duration. Night aligner treatment is less predictable. Failing to comply with the 20- to 22-hour rule can result in revised treatment timelines.

What is the HyperByte® Device?

Byte stands out in the at-home aligner industry because of its quick treatment time. This is made possible with the HyperByte, which stands for high-frequency vibrations.

HFV uses soft micro pulses that transmit through the roots of teeth to the surrounding bone. The gentle vibration has been shown to reduce discomfort and help set the aligners. This results in quicker tooth movement and faster treatment times. 

Here’s how the device works:

  1. The device produces electrical pulses that gently shake your teeth. The small connections between your gums and teeth loosen, reducing stress and tension. 
  2. Electricity also helps the bones break down and rebuild easier. This is what speeds up tooth movement. 
  3. Lastly, the pulses help sit the aligner trays over your teeth, potentially providing a more comfortable fit. 

Benefits and Concerns

According to Byte, the advantages of the Hyperbyte include:

  • Increases tooth movement by up to 64%
  • Significantly decreases treatment time (but this isn’t always safe — read side effects) 
  • Class II medical device (FDA-cleared)
  • Reduces pain and discomfort during the straightening process
  • Better aligner traction 
  • Only needs to be used for 5 minutes a day 
  • Vibration-based therapy has been used in orthodontics for many years

Potential side effects of vibration-based aligner therapy include:

  • It may only be beneficial for accelerating canine movement
  • It may not reduce pain intensity in some people
  • Excessive force on the teeth increases the risk of root resorption
  • Moving teeth too fast can cause bite issues and increases the risk of relapse 

Pros & Cons of Byte

Are byte aligners right for you? Compare the pros and cons:

PROS

  • Byte offers affordable payment plans for both the All-Day and At-Night aligners, and everyone qualifies for these financing plans
  • The aligners are also more affordable than in-office options like Invisalign, and no in-person visits are necessary
  • Treatment is completely remote; you'll track progress in the My Byte app and will receive notifications when it's time to switch to your next set of aligners
  • Live chat with customer support is available via the app
  • Quick treatment time, which is made possible with the HyperByte, a dental movement acceleration device (read our concerns about this device)
  • Byte can treat most minor to moderate teeth alignment issues
  • Every treatment plan is approved and overseen by a licensed dentist
  • A customized treatment is created using Byte's advanced SmileScience system
  • A personal customer service advisor is assigned to every patient
  • A lifetime guarantee is available if your teeth shift after treatment (as long as you wear your retainers as prescribed after treatment)
  • An aligner-safe whitening foam (BrightByte) is included with every purchase
  • You can request a refund for the impression kit if you aren’t a candidate

CONS

  • Treatment with Byte can be less predictable without in-office visits
  • Because of this, Byte aligners are only recommended for minor to moderate cases of teeth misalignment
  • There is currently no scientific proof pointing to the safety of night aligners or moving teeth quickly; we recommend choosing the All-Day Aligners

Are Byte Aligners Safe?

Clear aligners have been around for more than 20 years. With advancements in 3D modeling, video conferencing technology, and digital cameras, creating an at-home clear aligner treatment plan is safer and more effective than ever. 

It is important to remember that not everyone is eligible for clear aligners. For example, if you have:

  • Jaw issues or severely misaligned teeth
  • Gum disease, cavities, or other oral health conditions that need to be treated first
  • A permanent retainer from previous orthodontic treatment
  • Dental restorations, such as dentures, dental implants, or a dental bridge

While at-home aligner treatment comes with risks, current research shows they are generally low for mild and moderate malocclusions. More specifically, at-home aligner treatment is generally considered safe and effective if you carefully follow instructions throughout treatment.

According to one study, 87.5% of respondents were satisfied with their at-home aligner treatment, while 6.6% had to visit their dentist after treatment due to adverse effects.8

Byte Aligners Individual 4F
NewMouth / Alyssa Hill

Byte Comparisons

If you're not sure which type of treatment is best for you, read the comparisons below:

Byte vs. Invisalign

Invisalign is the most established in-office aligner brand. These FDA-approved aligners stand out in the industry because they are made of a patented thermoplastic material (called SmartTrack®). Invisalign claims this material is more comfortable, accurate, and discreet. 

Invisalign treatment is monitored in person. Your dental office acts as the ‘middleman,’ which means you’ll receive a higher standard of care. However, this also means the aligners are more expensive.

With Byte, your progress is tracked via virtual scans. These appointments are completely remote and flexible. In-office aligners like Invisalign are recommended for patients with complex teeth misalignment. We only recommend Byte for minor cases.

Invisalign typically costs anywhere between $3,000 and $8,000. This does not include the cost of the retainers that keep your teeth straight after treatment. Byte costs significantly less (under $2,300).

Byte vs. Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces consist of small brackets and wires that fix to the front of teeth. They gently apply pressure to each tooth, pulling them into the correct position. The brackets are metal and sometimes feature colored or clear elastic rubber bands.

Aligners are a nearly invisible and removable alternative to braces designed around convenience and comfort. They can be removed anytime for cleaning, eating, and brushing. The trays are made of clear, BPA-free, medical-grade plastic.

Braces are recommended over at-home aligners if you have more severe bite issues or skeletal (jaw) misalignment, as treatment is more precise. Aligners like Byte are ideal if you only need to fix minor discrepancies and prefer a discreet orthodontic experience.

Traditional braces can cost more than $10,000 in some cases, while Byte costs under $2,300.

Byte Invisalign Braces
Cost All-Day Aligners:
$1,999
$3,000 to $8,000 $3,000 to $12,000
Treatment Time 4 to 6 months 12 to 18 months 12 to 24 months
Best For Mild misalignment, some moderate may qualify (take the candidacy quiz) Mild to severe misalignment, excluding skeletal issues Mild to severe misalignment, including skeletal issues (jaw)
Monitoring/Care 100% remote monitoring via an app In-person, every 6 to 8 weeks In-person, every 4 to 8 weeks

Byte vs. Other Aligners

How does Byte compare to other aligner brands? Read below:

Byte vs. Candid

The average cost for Candid treatment is $3,300 since it's more in-depth. There are mandatory in-office visits at the beginning and end of treatment. This helps reduce the chance of errors. 

Byte has strong customer service and fast treatment times (4 to 6 months), but its onboarding process isn’t as detailed.

Candid treatment takes between 4 and 12 months, and they don’t offer a night aligner option for safety reasons.

Byte vs. SmileDirectClub

Byte's “All-Day Aligners” ($1,999) cost less than SmileDirectClub aligners ($2,050). Byte's "At-Night Aligners" cost $2,399, which is more than SDC's night aligners.

The average treatment time for SmileDirect is 4 to 6 months, while Byte typically takes between 4 and 5 months. Excluding adjustments (results vary).

Byte vs. ALIGNERCO

ALIGNERCO is the most affordable at-home aligner on the market ($945 vs. $1,999 to $2,399 for Byte).

Although cost-effective, ALIGNERCO treatment takes longer than Byte. The average treatment time is between 8 and 12 months. Byte’s average initial treatment plans are between 4 and 5 months (excluding any adjustments).

Byte vs. NewSmile

NewSmile aligners cost $1,495, a few hundred dollars cheaper than Byte. Treatment time with NewSmile aligners usually takes 4 to 6 months. This is around the same time it takes for Byte to provide full results as well.

Who Is Byte For? Is Treatment Worth It?

We recommend Byte if you have minor teeth alignment issues. The aligners might be suitable if you have moderate issues, like crowding or gapped teeth. However, we don't recommend Byte for more complex issues like underbites, overbites, and crossbites.

To determine if Byte is for you, take a free candidacy quiz. We also recommend talking with a dental professional before beginning any orthodontic treatment.

Byte Aligners

byte kit

At-home aligners like Byte are monitored remotely. This means you never have to visit an orthodontist for progress scans throughout the treatment process.

Rating by Alyssa Hill

Overall Value
Affordability
Treatment Time
Customer Service
Convenience
Comfort

Byte stands out in the at-home aligner industry because of its quick treatment time. This is made possible with the HyperByte — Byte’s very own HFV device that’s included in every treatment plan.

HFV stands for high-frequency vibrations. It uses soft micro pulses that transmit through the roots of teeth to the surrounding bone. The gentle vibration has been shown to reduce discomfort and help set the aligners. This results in quicker tooth movement and faster treatment times.

4.4

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Byte better than Invisalign?

Invisalign is the most well-known clear aligner brand. Treatment is monitored in person by a dentist or orthodontist, which means it is safer than at-home clear aligner treatment. Byte treatment is monitored remotely.

How often do you change Byte aligners?

With daily HyperByte use, you'll change your Byte aligners weekly (with your orthodontist's direction). Remote checkups will occur every two weeks.

Can you use HyperByte more than once a day?

You should only use your HyperByte for 5 minutes a day.

Does Byte offer night-only aligners?

Yes, Byte offers a premium aligner system that allows you to straighten your teeth while you sleep. You'll wear the aligners for a minimum of 10 hours a day (paired with 5 minutes of the HyperByte).

  • NewMouth is concerned about the risks of night aligners. Learn why here.
  • Are Byte aligners right for me?

    If you have mild to moderate teeth misalignment (like crowding, spacing, or tooth rotation), Byte may be an excellent option for you.

    How long does treatment take?

    Byte’s average initial treatment plans for daytime aligners are just 4 months and only 5 months for the night aligners (excluding any adjustments).

    What is the minimum age requirement for Byte?

    Byte's aligners treat patients who are 12 and older. If you are under 18, you'll need a legal guardian's consent.

    What’s Next?

    The most popular at-home clear aligner kits can be found right here:

    Learn about the different brands and what they offer.

    Last updated on May 19, 2023
    10 Sources Cited
    Last updated on May 19, 2023
    All NewMouth content is medically reviewed and fact-checked by a licensed dentist or orthodontist to ensure the information is factual, current, and relevant.

    We have strict sourcing guidelines and only cite from current scientific research, such as scholarly articles, dentistry textbooks, government agencies, and medical journals. This also includes information provided by the American Dental Association (ADA), the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
    linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram