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

The 5 Cheapest Invisible Braces (Clear Aligners)

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Cheapest Invisible Braces (Clear Aligners)

Invisalign and braces can be expensive. They cost between $3,000 and $8,000, making treatment out of reach for many people. Insurance also doesn’t cover these services unless you have orthodontic benefits (which are also pricey).

At-home clear aligners are an affordable and more convenient alternative to traditional orthodontics. They typically cost thousands less. Many brands also offer flexible financing options such as monthly payment plans.

Brand Cost Payment Plan Insurance
byte® $1,999-$2,399 $70/month-$84/month Ask your provider
SmileDirectClub $2,050 $89/month Up to $1,100
NewSmile $1,495-$1,595 $55/month-$58/month Ask your provider
ALIGNERCO $945-$1,145 $79/month Ask your provider
Candid $3,300 (on average) Ask your provider Ask your provider
Invisalign® $3,000-$8,000 Ask your provider Up to $3,500
ClearCorrect $2,500-$5,500 Ask your provider Up to $3,000
SnapCorrect $1,749 $80 / month Up to $1,100

Home aligner treatment is also expected to grow as 'virtual care,' and telehealth services become more popular.4

Our Top Recommendations

The Best Invisible Aligners:

Other Brands:

Why Trust Our Review?

To determine the best and cheapest invisible braces on the market, our team:

  • Spent months researching the most popular brands (and continue to analyze trends as they change) 
  • Sorted through thousands of customer reviews on multiple websites 
  • Talked to dozens of industry experts, including CEOs of a few aligner companies, licensed orthodontists, licensed dentists, and more 
  • Read hundreds of research papers on the safety, effectiveness, and concerns of clear aligners 
  • Spent hundreds of hours comparing at-home aligners and in-office aligners (like Invisalign) to ensure we recommend the proper treatment for different needs 
  • Three writers tested every teeth straightening kit recommended in this article
  • One of our writers successfully went through the entire treatment process with Candid aligners (see the before and after)

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

The 5 Cheapest Invisible Braces

The aligners below are listed in order from best to least overall value:

1. Byte

byte kit

Byte is our pick for the best at-home invisible aligner. They offer a 5-year Smile Protection Plan and a Lifetime Guarantee. If your smile moves out of alignment, they’ll help get it back at no additional cost. 

Byte is also known for its fast treatment time (4 to 6 months). Every customer receives a HyperByte® with their aligners. This is a dental movement acceleration device that claims to decrease treatment time.

Byte has two aligner options to choose from:

  1. Byte's All-Day Aligners cost $1,999 (or $70/month). They are worn for 22+ hours a day. 
  2. Byte's At-Night Aligners cost $2,399 (or $84/month). They are worn for 10+ hours a night.

We recommend Byte for minor cases of teeth misalignment. Severe cases require in-office treatment.

We do not recommend night aligners because there is no scientific proof that they are safe.

What’s included in the cost?

  • All of your aligners (made of shiny, smooth, clear plastic)
  • HyperByte® device (might speed up treatment)
  • Custom treatment plan from a dental professional 
  • 3D model of your treatment before, during, and after treatment
  • Free whitening foam that brightens and disinfects your aligners 
  • 5-year Smile Protection Plan (free retainers every six months and two free replacements if you lose or break them)
  • Lifetime Guarantee (free refinements if your teeth move any time after treatment)
  • Responsive customer service is available daily from 8 am to 6 pm (Pacific time)

Additional costs

  • The impression kit costs $95 (you’ll get a refund if you aren’t a candidate)

2. SmileDirectClub (SDC)

SmileDirectClub

SDC is another at-home option ($2,050). They are also the most established brand with over 300 in-person studios around the country. SDC works with registered dentists and orthodontists who create and oversee each treatment case. 

There are two ways to begin treatment: order an at-home impression kit online or visit a SmileShop for a risk-free scan. During the in-person consultation, a trained technician will take 3D scans of your teeth and ensure you are a good candidate for treatment.

We recommend SDC if you prefer an in-person scan and have mild to moderate teeth misalignment. They have SmileShop locations all around the U.S. and in other countries.

Sale: $15 impression kit - FREE after return, plus 6 months FREE teeth whitening. Code: NYNY23

3. NewSmile 

NewSmile kit

NewSmile costs 75% less than braces. Treatment takes between 4 and 6 months, on average.

These aligners are cheaper than both Byte and Candid. However, we only recommend NewSmile for mild cases of teeth misalignment. The company is also newer and less established.  

NewSmile has two aligner options to choose from:

  • The Fast Track Aligners cost $1,495 (or $55/month). They are worn for 22 hours a day.
  • The Night Aligners cost $1,595 (or $58/month). They are worn for 10 hours a night.

One of the standout features of NewSmile is that you can set up a virtual video call with an Impression Specialist. They’ll walk you through the process to ensure you take them correctly. 

NewSmile aligners are also cut in a scalloped fashion to provide a discreet look. They claim this makes the aligners more comfortable and less visible. 

What’s included in the cost?

  • One at-home impression kit
  • Video call with an ‘impression specialist’ 
  • All of your aligners (trimmed in a scalloped fashion along your gum line) 
  • Custom treatment plan from a dental professional 
  • NewSmile App for remote monitoring 
  • 3D model of your treatment before, during, and after treatment
  • Free whitening kit 
  • Your first set of retainers after treatment 

Additional costs

  • Additional retainers (after the first free set) cost $149. You’ll save $75 ($225 total) if you purchase two sets of retainers at once.

Use code NewMouthDeal for $100 off Aligners and code NewMouthKit for $20 off impression kit.

4. ALIGNERCO

ALIGNERCO aligners

ALIGNERCO is one of the cheapest at-home aligner brands. They offer two treatment options:

  1. The SmileAdvantage Aligners cost $945 (or $79/month). They are worn for 22 hours a day. The average treatment time is between 8 and 12 months. 
  2. The NightAdvantage Aligners cost $1,145 (or $96/month). They require 8 to 10 hours of daily wear time (while you sleep). Treatment takes between 12 and 18 months. 

ALIGNERCO has two financing options if you can’t afford to pay instantly. The SmileFlex plan requires a soft credit check but no down payment. The SmileFlex Easy plan requires a down payment but no credit check. 

The monthly cost depends on whether you choose the regular or night aligners. We recommend regular aligners for safety reasons.

ALIGNERCO also offers discounts regularly, dropping the prices even lower. 

Note: Although the price point of ALIGNERCO is appealing, it’s not always best to go with the cheapest teeth aligners. If you are looking for comprehensive care and remote monitoring, ALIGNERCO is not right for you. If you have minor bite issues, this could be a good option. 

What’s included in the cost?

  • All of your aligners 
  • Custom treatment plan from a dental professional 
  • 3D model of your treatment before, during, and after treatment
  • Live chat available 24/7 
  • Your first set of retainers after treatment 

Additional costs

  • The impression kit costs $39.99
  • Optional WorryFree Protection plan for $599 (includes a new retainer every six months and an on-demand supply for lost retainers) 

President's Day SaleSave $275 on clear aligners. 

5. Candid

Candid Kit 1

Candid is not the cheapest home aligner available. But based on our research, they provide patients with a lot of value for their money. 

Candid addresses function first and cosmetics second. The aligners move all of your teeth for safe and comprehensive results. This is known as full-arch tooth movement. Treatment takes between 4 and 12 months.

Most other aligners just move your front teeth, meaning they don’t treat the bite as a whole. This results in quicker treatment times. 

Candid is a hybrid option for those who want some convenience of at-home teeth straightening without sacrificing the quality of care. You begin treatment by visiting a CandidPro location for a consultation and mouth scan with a dental professional.

Afterward, a trained orthodontist (teeth-straightening expert) designs and monitors your treatment remotely. This means you’ll receive high-quality care with the convenience of at-home teeth straightening.

The aligners cost $3,300 (on average). This is significantly more than ALIGNERCO (the cheapest aligner available). However, since Candid offers hands-on care, we believe they are worth the extra money. 

What’s included in the cost?

  • In-person scan at a CandidPro location
  • Custom treatment plan from a licensed orthodontist 
  • 3D model of your treatment plan before, during, and after treatment
  • All of your aligners (made of Zendura FLX material, which blends in with your natural tooth structure) 
  • CandidMonitoring™ via the CandidApp (where you’ll take bi-weekly scans and connect to your virtual orthodontist office)
  • CandidScan box for remote monitoring (connects to your smartphone and takes in-depth scans of your teeth)
  • Smile Stretcher that connects to the scan box 
  • Your first set of retainers 
  • Free whitening foam that brightens and disinfects your aligners 
  • Responsive customer service is available daily from 9am to 7pm (Eastern time)

Additional costs

  • Replacement retainers ($99 each)

Other Clear Aligner Options 

Here are a few other clear aligner options:

SnapCorrect

SnapCorrect reviews are mixed. Some patients mention a positive experience, while others say they didn’t hear back from the company after ordering an impression kit.

There are also complaints about the aligners breaking. SnapCorrect costs $1,749.

Invisalign

Invisalign is the top clear aligner brand overall. But they are also the most expensive ($5,000 on average). You have to visit a certified Invisalign doctor to begin treatment. Invisalign can treat more severe bite issues.15,16

ClearCorrect

This aligner company is similar to Invisalign. They do not offer at-home impression kits and require frequent visits throughout treatment. Treatment averages between $3,500 and $5,500. 

2USmiles

2Usmiles is new to the remote aligner industry. Customer reviews and feedback are currently limited. For these reasons, we recommend more established brands like Candid or Invisalign. These companies have a strong track record for safe and reliable aligner treatment.

What to Consider When Getting Clear Aligners

It's best to talk with an orthodontist to determine the best treatment option for your needs. There are two primary factors to consider when choosing a clear aligner brand:

1. Your level of teeth misalignment

Teeth misalignment is also called malocclusion. A person's bite can be classified into three main categories:

  • Class I is the most common category, with appropriate alignment between the upper and lower jaws and teeth 
  • Class II occurs when the upper jaw and teeth protrude excessively over the lower jaw and teeth
  • Class III occurs when the lower jaw and teeth protrude excessively over the upper jaw and teeth

The severity of your malocclusion will determine the type of orthodontic treatment you need. There are two clear aligner options available, including:

  • In-office clear aligners require visits to your dentist or orthodontist throughout treatment. Treatment is more comprehensive, which comes with a higher price tag. These aligners are best for mild to severe malocclusions.
  • At-home clear aligners don't require office visits, and treatment is monitored remotely by a licensed dental professional. These aligners are only recommended for mild to moderate cases of teeth misalignment.

2. Your budget

Orthodontic treatment can be expensive and time-consuming. Fortunately, a few affordable aligner options cost under $1,500, including NewSmile and ALIGNERCO. These might work for you if you are on a budget and have minor alignment issues.

However, we don't recommend budget aligners if you have moderate to severe teeth misalignment. For moderate cases, choose Byte or SmileDirectClub. These both cost under $2,300. Invisalign is the safest option for severe cases but can cost thousands more.

If you have dental insurance with orthodontic benefits, you may be able to get partial coverage for aligner treatment. Speak with your insurance provider to find out.

Most at-home aligner brands also offer monthly payment plans, making treatment more affordable. Invisalign doctors may also offer these, but it depends on the provider.

Braces vs. Affordable Teeth Aligners

Braces

Traditional orthodontics requires frequent visits to the dentist/orthodontist. You have to set up an initial consultation and return to get the braces set on your teeth. 

You must also visit the dental office every few weeks for adjustments. This one-on-one time can be inconvenient. It also adds up quickly, making treatment expensive.

However, braces are the best option for severe teeth misalignment and other bite issues. This includes jaw misalignment.

Affordable Aligners

At-home aligner treatment is monitored 100% remotely. You never have to visit an orthodontist throughout treatment. Instead, you’ll order an impression kit online (typically under $100), make the molds yourself, and send them back.

A custom treatment plan is made remotely by a licensed dental professional. After you approve the plan, all the aligners will be shipped to you at once. 

Some brands also offer remote monitoring through a mobile app. This eliminates the need to visit a dentist, making treatment much more affordable and convenient.

Note: Most affordable clear aligners only treat mild to moderate teeth misalignment cases. Treatment is also typically shorter, which is another reason why the aligners are cheaper.

Which Aligner is Right for You?

  • Choose Byte if you have mild teeth misalignment and don’t need in-depth remote monitoring. 
  • Choose Candid if you have mild to severe teeth misalignment and want a mix of in-office care and the convenience of remote monitoring (by a licensed orthodontist). 
  • Choose NewSmile or ALIGNERCO if you have mild teeth misalignment, are on a budget, and don’t mind hands-off care.
  • Choose Invisalign, braces, or another in-office option if you have severe teeth and/or jaw misalignment.

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
16 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).
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  3. How Does it Work?” SnapCorrect.
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  5. Ke, et al. (2019, January 23). "A comparison of treatment effectiveness between clear aligner and fixed appliance therapies."
  6. Weir, T. “Clear Aligners in Orthodontic Treatment.” Wiley Online Library, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd, 2017.
  7. What to Expect with Invisalign® Treatment.” Invisalign.
  8. How NewSmile Works,” NewSmile.
  9. Why Byte?” Byte.
  10. Why Candid Doesn't Offer Night Wear Only Clear Aligners.” Candid.
  11. Is Teeth Straightening at Home Safe?” Verblio, ALIGNERCO.
  12. Teeth Straightening: Invisible Aligners.” Verblio, ALIGNERCO.
  13. Somers, JL. “ClearCorrect - FAQs.” ClearCorrect Support.
  14. Patterson, et al. "Class II malocclusion correction with Invisalign: Is it possible?" American Journal of Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, 2021.
  15. El-Bialy, T. "The Use of High Frequency Vibration and Clear Aligners in Management of an Adult Patient with Class III Skeletal Malocclusion with Open Bite and Severe Bimaxillary Protrusion: Case Report." Dentistry Journal, 2020.
  16. Dianiskova, et al. "Treatment of mild Class II malocclusion in growing patients with clear aligners versus fixed multibracket therapy: A retrospective study." Orthodontics and Craniofacial Research, 2021.
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