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Important Safety Notice: As of October 25, 2024, Byte has permanently ceased operations and stopped shipping aligners globally due to safety concerns identified by the FDA. This decision came after regulatory reviews found that their patient screening process might not adequately prevent certain contraindicated patients from starting treatment. While Byte stated the potential risk to patients was low, they have advised current patients with specific conditions to stop treatment and consult a local dentist.
We are maintaining this article about the HyperByte device as a historical reference to help patients understand the technology and its purported benefits and risks. This information may be valuable for understanding similar devices in the orthodontic market. However, please note that the HyperByte device is no longer available for purchase, and existing Byte patients should consult their local dental professionals about continuing their treatment journey.
The following article contains our original analysis of the HyperByte device and its scientific basis, maintained for educational purposes.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant to replace medical advice. We always recommend consulting with a qualified dental professional before starting any teeth-straightening treatment.
Byte offers an at-home teeth-straightening system often including the HyperByte device. It’s an FDA-registered, medical-grade device designed to accelerate tooth movement and reduce pain using high-frequency vibrations.
The long-term effects of accelerated tooth movement are still under investigation, and Byte’s treatment may not be suitable for everyone.
HyperByte is a mouthpiece that emits high-frequency vibrations (HFV). Its vibrations penetrate the gums, teeth, and nearby bone tissue. While noticeable, these micro pulses are softer than the vibrations of an electric toothbrush.
Byte is one of the few companies that offer a free tooth-accelerating HFV device with their at-home clear aligners. HyperByte isn’t based on new technology and researchers have been studying HFV as a means of accelerating teeth movement since the 1980s.
From the 2000s until the present day, scientists began exploring more compact and user-friendly HFV devices. By 2018, HyperByte was released.
Straighten your teeth at a fraction of the cost. Learn about clear aligners.
While studies suggest potential benefits, this device does not replace the need for professional dental care. HyperByte is a Class II medical device approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), so it’s generally safe to use.
While HyperByte has many potential benefits backed by science, it also comes with risks. The device itself has FDA clearance but the long-term effects of accelerated tooth movement are still being studied.
Moving teeth too quickly could lead to complications. It’s best to consult your orthodontist to understand the possible risks and benefits associated with HyperByte, so you can better decide if it’s right for you.
Research suggests high-frequency vibrations (HFV) can be a safe and effective way of speeding up teeth movement and making orthodontic treatments more comfortable.
Conflicting results and the lack of long-term studies raise concerns about the overall safety and efficacy of HFV devices like HyperByte.
Based on studies, HFV doesn’t seem to cause root resorption. However, moving teeth too quickly can increase your risk for this condition.
Tooth resorption can weaken teeth, make them sensitive, and increase your risk for bite problems and relapse. Relapse is when teeth shift back to their original position, causing you to lose progress.
Byte only moves your visible front teeth, known as the Social 6 or 12.
While they’re great for mild to moderate teeth misalignments and faster treatments, they only address cosmetic issues—not bite problems.
According to Dr. Hurst, Chief Clinical Officer at Candid, “a risk you run if you just move the front teeth, for example, is pushing them out of the bone.”
Another board-certified orthodontist, Stephen Belli, says moving a tooth too fast can cause damage to the bone and gums.
You could throw off the entire bite if teeth aren’t moved in the right position. This can damage and wear teeth or cause a relapse.
A full arch treatment, which treats the whole bite and moves the molars first to make room for the front teeth, is the safest way to straighten your smile.
We strongly recommend consulting with a qualified dental professional before starting any orthodontic treatment. They can assess your specific dental needs, determine the suitability of accelerated treatment, and discuss potential risks and benefits.
Keep in mind that rapid teeth movement can increase the risk of certain side effects, such as root resorption or gum recession. A dental professional can help minimize these risks.
The HyperByte is generally recommended for people with minor to moderate misalignments. For more complex cases, traditional orthodontic treatment may be more appropriate. By seeking professional advice, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your specific dental goals and concerns.
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