At-home teeth straightening solutions, notably At Home Aligner kits, have become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional braces. These kits are designed for convenience and affordability, allowing users to receive treatment without frequent visits to an orthodontist. We’ll review and compare some of the notable brands in this space: SmileDirectClub, Byte, and Candid.
1. SmileDirectClub At Home Aligners
- Treatment Duration: Typically 4 to 6 months.
- Pricing: Around $1,950 for the entire treatment which includes the impression kit. There are often promotions and payment plans available.
- Process: Begins with either a 3D image taken at a SmileShop or a mail-in dental impression kit. Treatment involves wearing clear aligners for 22 hours a day.
- Support: 24/7 customer support and access to a dental professional.
- Unique Features: SmileDirectClub has retail locations (SmileShops) where you can get a 3D image of your teeth, potentially making the initial process easier.
2. Byte At Home Aligners
- Treatment Duration: Typical treatment is about 3 months for the All-Day Aligner System and 5 months for the At-Night Aligner System.
- Pricing: Starts at $1,895 for the All-Day Aligner System and $2,295 for the At-Night Aligner System, including the impression kit.
- Process: Treatment starts with a mail-in dental impression kit. Aligners should be worn for 22 hours a day or 10 hours for the At-Night system.
- Support: Offers access to an orthodontist throughout the treatment and includes the HyperByte device, a dental movement acceleration tool.
- Unique Features: Byte’s HyperByte technology claims to make treatment faster and more comfortable by using high-frequency vibrations.
3. Candid Pro At Home Aligners
- Treatment Duration: Typically 6 to 11 months.
- Pricing: Starts at approximately $2,400, including the starter kit.
- Process: Starts with an at-home starter kit or a visit to a Candid Studio for a scan. Treatment includes remote monitoring by an orthodontist.
- Support: Direct oversight by orthodontists as opposed to general dentists, emphasizing the medical aspect of the treatment.
- Unique Features: Emphasizes the role of orthodontists in the treatment process, and offers Remote Monitoring by a licensed orthodontist to adjust treatment as needed.
Comparison
- Duration: Byte often has the shortest treatment duration, especially with its HyperByte device that claims to accelerate tooth movement.
- Pricing: While all options are significantly cheaper than traditional braces (which can cost $5,000 to $10,000), SmileDirectClub typically offers the lowest baseline price.
- Process and Convenience: All three companies offer remote treatment processes with minimal in-person commitments. Byte and Candid provide technologies aimed at enhancing the speed and efficiency of treatment, whereas SmileDirectClub provides accessibility through its retail locations.
- Support and Oversight: Candid places a strong emphasis on orthodontic oversight, potentially offering a higher level of professional support. However, all three companies offer access to dental professionals throughout the treatment.
Below is a general comparison table of popular at-home aligner companies:
| Feature | Byte | SmileDirectClub | Candid | Invisalign (In-Office) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Treatment Type | At-home aligners | At-home aligners | At-home aligners with remote monitoring | In-office aligners |
| Initial Consultation | Online with an impression kit | Online or at a SmileShop with a 3D scan | Online with an impression kit and in some cases, a visit to a Candid Studio | In-office consultation with 3D scan |
| Average Treatment Time | 2-4 months with HyperByte usage | 4-6 months | 6 months on average | 12-18 months on average |
| Dental Professional Involvement | Licensed dentist or orthodontist | Licensed dentist or orthodontist | Orthodontist-led treatment with remote monitoring | Treatment by a licensed orthodontist/dentist throughout |
| Aligner Material | BPA-free, clear plastic | BPA-free, clear plastic | BPA-free, clear plastic | Proprietary SmartTrack material |
| Cost | $$$ | $$$ | $$$ | $$$$ |
| Insurance Partnerships | Some insurance accepted | Accepts some dental insurance | Accepts FSA, HSA, and some insurance | Widely accepted by dental insurance |
| Follow-up | Remote monitoring | Regular remote check-ins available | Remote monitoring with a dedicated orthodontist | Regular in-office visits |
| Aligner Comfort | Smooth edges to reduce irritation | Smooth edges for comfort | Smooth and stain-resistant | Custom fit for comfort |
| Nighttime Option | “Byte At-Night” plan available | Not offered | Not offered | Not typically offered |
| Guarantee | Byte-for-Life guarantee | SmileDirectClub’s Smile Guarantee | CandidAssurance guarantees results when treatment plan is followed | Depends on provider |
| Add-ons | HyperByte acceleration device included | Additional costs for accessories and premium services | Retainers included at the end of treatment | Depends on treatment and provider |
| Global Availability | US, Australia | US, Canada, UK, Australia, and others | US only | Worldwide |
Please note that the information in the table is a generalized outline and the specifics can change. The costs represented by the dollar signs ($$$ and $$$$) are relative, and actual prices can vary based on individual treatment needs, promotions, and other factors.
Please visit the respective websites or contact customer support for the most current information and consult with a dental professional when considering orthodontic treatment.
For a comprehensive evaluation and comparison, one should also consider reading reviews, checking aftercare and contingency plans (what happens if treatment isn’t successful), and other customer service options.
Choosing the right at-home teeth straightening solution depends on several factors, including how quickly you want to complete your treatment, your budget, and the level of professional oversight you’re comfortable with. Byte offers a fast treatment plan with its distinctive technology, making it an attractive option for those in a hurry. SmileDirectClub could be more appealing to budget-conscious consumers and those who prefer starting the process in person. Candid’s emphasis on orthodontic oversight might attract those looking for a more traditional approach to professional guidance.
