So, you're looking for a solution to straighten your teeth, and there are plenty of options. Instead of taking a trip to your dentist and orthodontist to start your treatment, why not save yourself some money?
SmileDirectClub and Byte are two of the leading at-home orthodontic solutions for Americans that require teeth straightening services. At a glance, both of these companies have a similar offering, with a similar price point.
So, how do you decide on which company to go for with your treatment? In this post, we'll analyze the differences between Byte Vs. Smile Direct Club, giving you our verdict on the best option to suit your orthodontic needs.
It's a close call, but Byte is the winner
We recommend you go with Byte!
Pros
Cons
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Conclusion:
Both Smile Direct Club and Byte are solid options for teeth alignment. We believe Byte has a slight edge given the fast treatment time and that the HyperByte device is included with each treatment plan. The HyperByte technology uses High Frequency Vibrations that may help to improve comfort and speed up tooth movement.* Our review found that Byte's customer service team was extremely responsive and we never had to wait to talk to a live representative. This personal attention from Byte was a key differentiator.
*Preliminary clinical studies of small groups of users have shown that daily recommended use of a high-frequency seating device functionally equivalent to HyperByte with clear aligners may have this effect. Individual results may vary.
Byte Vs. Smile Direct Club – The Specs
Let's analyze each step of the process to see which company has the better offer for your treatment.
Impressions – Winner: Smile Direct Club (studio) or Byte (home kit)
With Byte, you must order an impression kit online for $95 (currently only $17.95 with special offer). You use the kit to take a mold of your teeth, and then you send it into Byte for analysis.
With Smile Direct Club, you can order your kit online for $15, with overnight shipping. However, with Smile Direct Club, you get the option of visiting a SmileShop to scan your teeth rather than take impressions.
The scan at your SmileShop is free of charge and provides more accurate results than home impressions, but is far less convenient.
The Verdict
Smile Direct Club makes taking your scan or impressions easy, as does Byte. If you prefer an in-person option, SmileDirectClub is a good option since you can get a scan at SmileShops across the country. However, we found the Byte impression kit was very easy.
Aligners – Winner: Byte
We hope to provide a holistic comparison between Smile Direct Club vs Byte. After analyzing your impressions or scan, Smile Direct Club will build you a set of custom aligners. Smile Direct uses a unique design called "Comfort Sense" that uses different plastic progression from soft, medium, and firm to comfortably move teeth. The treatment lasts 18 to 24-weeks. You'll have to wear the aligners 22-hours a day (or 10 continuous hours at night) to see the benefit of using the system.
Byte was acquired by Dentsply Sirona, a leading dental manufacturing company in 2020, which gives the company the benefits and resources of a reputable company.
Byte offers you two types of aligners. The original Byte system is like the Smile Direct Club offering. You receive around 20-sets of aligners in the mail, and progress through each one until you straighten your teeth. However, Byte uses the innovative "HyperByte" technology, Byte's aligner plans with their sclusive HyperByte device offers fast results for a smile you'll love.*
*Preliminary clinical studies of small groups of users have shown that daily recommended use of a high-frequency seating device functionally equivalent to HyperByte with clear aligners may have this effect. Individual results may vary.
Byte also offers the "Byte-at-Night" system. You wear these aligners for 10-hours a day, before and during your sleep. The treatment takes longer and costs more, but it's a good choice for people that don't want the hassle of wearing aligners during the day.
The Verdict
Byte wins the best aligner showdown, with the HyperByte technology. Byte's fast treatment time and impressive technology makes its stand out.
Cost – Winner: Byte (Smile Direct was close)
Both Smile Direct Club and Byte offer standard treatment packages for $1,895 (one-time payment). However, Byte charges $2,245 (one-time payment) for the Byte-at-Night kit. Smile Direct Club charges $1,950 (one-time payment) for its aligner treatment.
The Verdict
Smile Direct Club has the better service offering if you are looking to visit a Smile Direct studio, but Byte is a bit more affordable if you are looking for an at-home clear aligner daytime treatment. Byte is currently running a special offer that includes $100 off its treatment plan, that brings the cost of the aligner treatment to $1,795. The Byte impression kit treatment is also currently on sale for only $17.95.
Treatment Duration – Winner: Byte
Both Byte and Smile Direct Club offers teeth straightening options that can be faster than typical options that require a visit to the orthodontist office. Byte can typically straighten teeth in 4-5 months and Smile Direct has a similar treatment time as well,
The Verdict
Byte and Smile Direct Club both offer fast options for at-home teeth straightening that can be faster than alternatives such as Invisalign. .
Financing – Winner: Draw between Smile Direct Club and Byte
Byte offers financing packages for $82/month for its All-Day aligner system and $99/month for its at-night aligner system. Smile Direct Club offers varying financing APRs based on the customer's state.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is SmileDirectClub or Byte better?
We believe Byte is the better option for patients looking for invisible braces at home. The impression kit is very easy to use and comes with everything you need including impression trays and putty gloves. Smile Direct Club is a good option for those who live close to a Smile Studio.
Do home aligners work?
Home aligners work for minor cases of teeth misalignment. There are several options including Byte, SmileDirectClub, and Candid. They are typically more affordable than braces and offer fast treatment times.
Is Invisalign better than Byte?
Invisalign is a good option for patients with more severe dental issues. Invisalign requires visiting the office for an orthodontist or dentist. For patients that value convenience and affordability, we recommend Byte.
Is Byte or Candid cheaper?
We recommend Byte because it is more affordable than Candid. The Byte impression kit costs $15 and has an average initial treatment plan that is between 4-5 months, excluding adjustments. As of 2022, Candid has discontinued its at-home impression kits.
Is Smile Direct Club cheaper than Byte?
No, Byte is cheaper than SmileDirectClub for the aligner treatment. The normal price for the Byte aligner treatment costs $1,895 compared to $1,950 for SmileDirectClub.
