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Updated on November 9, 2023
13 min read

Top Invisible Braces Brands (Pros, Cons, & Costs)

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What Are Invisible Braces?

“Invisible braces” is an umbrella term for invisible aligners, ceramic or clear braces, clear teeth aligners, and lingual braces. They’re removable custom-fitted plastic trays that straighten your teeth discreetly and comfortably.

All of these treatments are more discreet than traditional metal braces. Aligners have clear plastic trays, while lingual and clear braces use less noticeable brackets and wires.

The process uses a mold of your teeth and digital 3D computer processing to develop a custom treatment plan. You will receive a set of aligners and change the plastic aligner tray every couple of weeks until your teeth are in the proper position.

Many prefer this option because the invisible aligners don’t change your appearance like traditional metal braces.

Benefits of Invisible Aligners

Many people choose invisible aligners over traditional braces because of the following reasons:

Aesthetics

Invisible aligners don’t require wires or brackets like traditional braces. This means that you don’t have to worry about them getting in the way of your smile. Many people like the way invisible aligners are almost invisible since they don’t get self-conscious. 

Removability

You can remove invisible aligners whenever you eat, brush, or floss. This makes it easier to maintain your oral health. You don’t have to worry about food debris getting stuck in between the wires and brackets.

Predictability and Visualization

When you choose invisible aligners, the orthodontist will show you what your teeth look like after treatment. They use 3D imaging technology, so you know what to expect afterward. 

What Can Clear Aligners Fix?

Clear aligners are an increasingly popular orthodontic treatment option for adults seeking to improve their smiles. However, it's important to note that not everyone is a candidate for clear aligner treatment.

Clear aligners are effective in treating mild to moderate cases of misaligned teeth, including:

  • Crowded teeth — not enough space in the jaw for the teeth to align properly
  • Diastema — small gaps between teeth (gapped teeth)
  • Overbite — the upper teeth protrude over the lower teeth and jaw
  • Underbite — the lower jaw is pushed forward and overlaps the top front teeth and jaw
  • Crossbite — some bottom teeth are located outside the upper teeth when the jaw is closed
  • Open bite — the upper and lower teeth slant outwards and do not touch when the mouth is closed
  • Overjet — the upper front teeth are ahead of the lower teeth

Traditional braces or other treatments may be required in severe cases of malocclusion.

If you’re interested in straighter teeth or a new smile, speak with your dentist or orthodontist to determine the best treatment option. 

4 Best Invisible Braces Treatment (At-Home)

Based on our research, here are the best invisible braces companies that provide at-home treatment:

Byte — Editor's Choice

Convenient treatment
byte kit

Byte® stands out in the at-home aligner industry for having strong customer support and fast treatment times (4 to 6 months).

As a customer, you’ll receive a HyperByte® with your aligners. You only need to use this dental movement acceleration device for a few minutes daily. Byte claims this helps to straighten teeth quicker.

Read our article comparing the positives and negatives of the HyperByte and similar vibration-based aligner therapies.

Byte has two clear aligners options, including All-Day Aligners or At-Night Aligners. Their All-Day Aligners cost $1,999. The teeth straightening kit costs an additional $95.

We recommend all-day aligners over night aligners.

Pros

  • Free retainers
  • Aligner-safe whitening foam (BrightByte) 
  • Good customer support
  • No credit check required (100% approval with no credit impact)
  • Payment plan option

Cons

  • Treatment can be less predictable without in-office visits
  • Treatment can be overseen by a dentist or orthodontist (less predictable)
  • No in-depth remote monitoring

What Customers Are Saying

Here’s what customers think about Byte at-home aligners:

  • The aligners provide excellent results and helped improve their smile
  • Byte’s app is easy to use, and you can reach real people for assistance
  • Some customers experience delayed delivery of the aligners 
  • Others have received faulty products, so they weren’t able to straighten their teeth

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SmileDirectClub — Best In-Person Scans

The biggest aligner company
SmileDirectClub aligner

SmileDirectClub is the largest, longest-standing clear aligner manufacturer. They’re a 6-year-old company that works with licensed doctors, dentists, and orthodontists.

The aligners cost $2,250 (no credit check required). You can get a free 3D scan at a SmileShop or buy a $59 teeth straightening starter kit.

They also offer an affordable payment plan. After treatment, you’ll buy a custom retainer for $100 to keep your teeth straight. 

We recommend all-day aligners over night aligners.

Pros

  • First-ever remote aligner company
  • In-person scans available at SmileShops
  • Free whitening treatment
  • Insurance is accepted
  • No credit check required
  • Payment plan available

Cons

  • Treatment can be overseen by a dentist or orthodontist (less predictable)
  • Can only treat minor to moderate cases of misalignment
  • Customer service can be hard-to-reach 
  • No in-depth remote monitoring

What Customers Are Saying

Here’s what customers are saying about SmileDirectClub’s products and services:

  • Many customers appreciate the good customer service from the staff
  • The aligners come with freebies, such as night-time teeth protection and free electric toothbrushes
  • Some find that other customer service representatives can be quite pushy 
  • Certain SmileDirectClub locations aren’t as clean as they expected

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

NewSmile

Budget option
NewSmile kit

NewSmile is one of the most affordable at-home aligners. The aligners claim to be more comfortable because they don’t touch your gums. They’re trimmed to sit along your gum line in a ‘scalloped fashion.’

NewSmile’s Fast Track Aligners are worn for 22+ hours a day. Treatment takes between 4 and 6 months, but sometimes up to a year.  They also offer live video chats with a specialist to ensure you make accurate teeth impressions.

They cost $1,395. The Night Aligners require less daily wear time (10+ hours a day). They cost $1,595.

However, we recommend all-day aligners over night aligners. There are no studies that prove that nighttime aligners are safe or effective. 

Pros

  • Hundreds less than leading brands
  • The aligners have scalloped edges for increased comfortability
  • Video call available with an ‘impression specialist’
  • NewSmile App to track progress
  • Free whitening foam for aligners
  • Free retainers (first set)
  • Refund on impression kit if you aren’t a candidate

Cons

  • It is not always best to go with the cheapest option (treatment is more hands-off after you approve the plan)
  • Newer aligner company; not many reviews
  • No in-depth remote monitoring

What Customers Are Saying

According to customers, here’s what they think about NewSmile:

  • Many customers like NewSmile’s affordable pricing, which makes it an accessible option for teeth straightening
  • The aligners are almost transparent and almost invisible when worn
  • NewSmile may ask for additional costs and unexpected requirements, making treatment more difficult
  • Some customers experienced poor customer service from the representatives

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

Candid — Hybrid Option

Comprehensive care
Candid Kit 1

Candid only works with licensed orthodontists to design and oversee your treatment, rather than general dentists. This allows a higher level of treatment consistency and reliability.

The same orthodontist who creates your treatment plan will oversee your treatment from start to finish. Candid aligner treatment takes about six months (on average). 

Candid aligners cost $3,300 on average. This can vary based on your location, what provider you see, and your level of malocclusion.

Some CandidPro providers may offer the ability to make monthly payments. You also have no direct financial relationship with Candid — the CandidPro provider is your healthcare provider.

To begin treatment with Candid, you can visit a CandidPro location for an initial consultation. If you're approved for treatment, you’ll receive the aligners within a few weeks. Treatment is monitored in the CandidApp.

Pros

  • Best remote monitoring and care
  • In-depth scans via the CandidApp
  • CandidPro locations are growing across the U.S. (where x-rays and 3D teeth scans are taken by trained dental professionals) 
  • Can treat most minor to severe cases of teeth misalignment
  • Candidates are carefully selected based on eligibility
  • Free whitening foam for aligners
  • Every treatment plan is monitored by a licensed orthodontist
  • An established orthodontist, Dr. Hurst, oversees the product, vision, and safety of customers
  • Communicative customer service

Cons

  • No guarantees (depends on provider)
  • No at-home impression kit option (if you prefer this)
  • More expensive than at-home brands
  • Treatment can be less predictable without in-office visits

What Customers Are Saying

Here’s what customers are saying about Candid:

  • It’s very convenient to complete the treatment through the app
  • Many clients have achieved their desired results through the app
  • A few customers experience alignment issues and bite problems during the treatment
  • The treatment can take longer than usual 

You can begin treatment by visiting a CandidPro location:

In-Office vs. At-Home Invisible Aligners

Aligner treatment can be in-office or at home. Here are their differences:

In-Office Treatment

In-office aligner treatment consists of going to a dentist or orthodontist in person. Going to a professional for clear aligner treatment provides benefits such as face-to-face interactions and more precise check-ups.

Most doctors that offer clear aligner treatment in the United States use Invisalign treatment in their offices. Other brands of clear aligners that doctors use include ClearCorrect and SureSmile.

However, Invisalign costs much more than at-home treatment options (usually between $4,000 and $8,000), and some people prefer the convenience of virtual consultations over having to visit their doctor each month.

At-Home Treatment 

At-home aligner treatment is when you order clear aligners to be shipped directly to your home.

Popular invisible braces brands include Candid (not entirely remote), Byte, SmileDirectClub, ClearCorrect, and more.

These companies will send you an impression kit and then use your mold to develop a custom treatment plan. They will monitor your progress virtually and mail you new aligners when it is time to change them.

Since these companies work directly with consumers, they cost significantly less than Invisalign aligners (typically under $2,000).

Which Invisible Braces Brand Is Right for Me?

The best invisible braces brand for you will always depend on your needs, lifestyle, and preferences. If you don't know where to start, here are some factors to consider:

Treatment Complexity

People with severe misaligned teeth may not be good candidates for invisible braces. Some may even need additional treatment before they can start with invisible braces. Discuss your treatment options with your orthodontist before opting for a particular brand.

Cost

Another factor to consider when choosing invisible braces is the cost. Some brands may cost more than others, so consider their prices carefully.  For instance, other companies may charge more for additional services such as remote monitoring and virtual consultations.

Brand Reputation

Brand reputation says a lot about what you can expect from the treatment. Check past customer reviews and see what they have to say about a certain brand. In most cases, you can expect better services from a brand with better reviews. 

Post-Treatment Retention

After you finish treatment with invisible braces, you need to wear retainers. This will help maintain your new smile. Check the company’s policies regarding post-treatment retention. 

Do they offer free retainers? Do they provide post-treatment visits? Asking these questions will help determine whether an invisible braces brand is a good fit for you. 

Does Insurance Cover Invisible Braces?

Most dental insurance won’t cover invisible braces. This is because they’re considered a cosmetic procedure. You won’t be eligible for treatment in this case. 

However, insurance companies will cover some of the costs of orthodontic treatment. If this is the case, you may be eligible for partial coverage for invisible braces.

Remember that coverage depends on the type and brand of invisible braces. Always consult your insurance provider and orthodontist to know more about your coverage.

Some brands offer payment plans and financing options if your insurance doesn’t cover the cost of invisible braces. 

Other Types of Invisible Braces

Lingual Braces

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are metal brackets attached to the back of your teeth instead of the front.

They are the least visible type of metal braces available and can correct most of the same issues that traditional braces can.

However, some people find them more uncomfortable since they can irritate your tongue easily and temporarily affect your speech.

They also may cost more and have a longer treatment time than conventional braces. Conventional metal braces cost $3,000 to $7,350, while lingual braces range from $5,000 to $13,000.

Ceramic or Clear Braces

Ceramic or Clear Braces

Ceramic or clear braces are very similar to traditional metal braces.

Though many teens and adults prefer their look over silver or gold metal brackets, they are still visible. 

Why Trust Us

As an established website for all things dental, NewMouth’s articles go through different stages of review and research. For this review article, you can trust us because of the following:

Expertise and Credibility

At NewMouth, we have a team of medical reviewers who review our articles before publication. They make sure that all information is medically accurate. 

We only recommend products that have been tried and tested. This way, you can be sure you’re getting accurate information and advice. 

Research and Evidence-Based Approach

Our writers are experienced in researching medical and dental topics. They ensure the information is up-to-date and based on evidence from reliable sources such as scientific journals, government websites, and clinical studies.

All of our articles also go through a rigorous editorial process. Our writers spend hundreds of hours researching invisible braces and other dental products. This guarantees that the information is accurate and unbiased.

In addition, we update our articles regularly so that we can keep up with different industry changes. 

Customer Reviews and Ratings

We also consider customer ratings and feedback as part of our review process. Our team reviews hundreds of reviews to determine what people say about different products.

This allows us to provide an unbiased and comprehensive look at different invisible braces brands. Our team looks at ratings from real customers who have actually used the product.

Transparency

While we partner with different dental product brands, we maintain our commitment to transparency. Our team never let our partnerships influence our content. 

You can trust that our reviews are honest and unbiased. We’ll write about a product’s advantages and disadvantages for a comprehensive review.

Summary

Invisible braces are popular for teens and adults looking for straight teeth and a beautiful smile.

Clear aligners are the most convenient and cost-effective way to correct crooked teeth, gapped teeth, and other mild to moderate forms of malocclusion, while lingual or ceramic braces are the best option for severe cases.

Speak with your dentist or orthodontist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

Invisible Braces FAQs

How much do invisible braces cost?

Your treatment cost will depend on your condition's severity, treatment length, and location. The average costs of invisible braces are:

Invisalign Treatment: $4,000 to $8,000
At-Home Aligners: $1,800 to $2,300
Lingual Braces: $5,000 to $13,000
Ceramic Braces: $4,000 to $8,000

Do invisible braces really work?

Yes, invisible braces are an excellent option for treating cases of malocclusion.

What are the cheapest invisible braces?

Candid aligners are one of the most cost-effective and highly rated invisible braces on the market. They are a direct-to-consumer brand to make it convenient and affordable for customers.

How long do you have to wear invisible braces?

Your treatment time will vary depending on the type of invisible braces and the severity of your condition. The average treatment time is around six to eight months but can vary from three to 36 months. Some people will need refinements (additional aligners or elastic rubber bands) at the end of their treatment to ensure optimal results. 

Last updated on November 9, 2023
5 Sources Cited
Last updated on November 9, 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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