Best Invisible Braces

  • Byte
    2.7(4,696)
  • Candid
    1.1(525)
  • Invisalign
    1.2(83)

Best Invisible Braces

When it comes to teeth straightening, millions opt for braces. Your mind may immediately think of the highly popular metal braces, but invisible (also known as clear) braces are an option many consider for a variety of factors, such as cost, accessibility and subtle appearance.

Our research team compared 10 invisible braces companies and chose our top 4 picks based on factors including customer reviews, cost and average treatment length. Our picks may be Authorized Partners who compensate us — this does not affect our recommendations or evaluations but may impact the order in which companies appear.

Our top picks for invisible braces

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Our picks for best invisible braces

When making our top picks for invisible braces, we weighed several factors: customer reviews and ratings, cost, average treatment plan, impression types and daytime versus nighttime options.

We also looked at other factors like payment plan options, whether or not you can use your insurance for the treatment and the specifics of the aligners' fit and issues they cover. Ultimately, the ConsumerAffairs Research Team selected five invisible braces providers as our top picks.

All prices are accurate as of publishing.

Our pick for shortest treatment time

Byte

Byte
Cost
$1,999 (daytime); $2,399 (nighttime)
Treatment duration
3 to 6 months
Impression type
Putty mold
Day/night options
Offers both

Byte is an at-home clear aligner brand that serves customers in all 50 states. Start by taking a five-minute assessment. The company then sends an impression kit to your doorstep with instructions. Byte’s team analyzes your answers and impressions to decide if you’re a candidate for treatment. If you do not qualify, the cost of the impression kit is refunded. Byte’s daytime aligners need to be worn for about 10 to 22 hours a day for up to six months.

The impression kit costs $95 (refundable upon nonqualification). The nighttime aligners cost $2,399, and the daytime aligners cost $1,999.

One of the biggest advantages of Byte is that you don't have to visit an orthodontist in person. Byte works with you through a teledentistry service, which makes it a convenient choice.

Byte also delivers a putty mold impression kit to your home. Both nighttime and daytime options are available, but the nighttime option is recommended only for very mild corrections.

Many Byte customers on our site are happy with the price and the prompt results. Serena of California told us: “Byte is definitely worth it. It's affordable and they have been with me every step of the way. They follow up, and I really like the customer service and how easy it is to get the retainers.”

Our pick for orthodontic collaboration

Candid

Candid
Cost
$1,895
Treatment duration
6 to 11 months
Impression type
3D scan or putty mold
Day/night options
Daytime only

To start your journey to straighter teeth with Candid, you take a smile quiz online. If you’re a good candidate, you’ll get matched with a doctor for a consultation and to get set up with your aligners.

The starter kit costs $95 (refundable upon nonqualification). For the aligners, you can choose between a one-time payment of $1,895 or monthly payments of $65 for 36 months with $199 down.

Candid exclusively uses orthodontists — many other dental service providers use both general dentists and orthodontists. Orthodontists typically have three more years of training than general dentists. Candid treatment can last from six months to about eleven months. Candid uses a 3D scan for in-person visits and putty impressions for at-home treatment.

Jazzmine of California told us, “I gave it a chance and within 6 short months and more than $1500 [saved] using them, my teeth are where I want them to be.”

Our pick for complex ortho issues

Invisalign

Invisalign
Cost
$3,000 to $7,100
Treatment duration
12 to 18 months
Impression type
3D scans and X-rays
Day/night options
Offers both

Invisalign offers in-person checkups and treatment only. While this may not be the most convenient option, the company provides smart solutions to more complex dental problems.

Invisalign’s estimated treatment period ranges from 12 to 18 months (longer if complex corrections are necessary), and 3D scans and X-rays are available on location for impressions. Invisalign sells both nighttime and daytime aligners.

Invisalign treatments typically cost between $3,000 and $7,100, depending on the level of correction required.

Invisalign employs SmartForce technology to attach tooth-colored shapes to your teeth for additional correction. Its treatment is slightly more expensive than you'll find with our other picks, but it’s a good option for those who need major corrections.

Invisalign reviewers on ConsumerAffairs often mention success with the aligners, even if they require some time and a little discomfort.

Rose of California told us, “Invisalign braces are a wonderful solution for adults needing braces.” She doesn’t recommend them for teenagers, though. “You have to pay more attention to brushing and cleaning than most young people like to do,” she said. Still, she said, “All in all, I would choose the Invisalign.”

Our pick for treatment cost

ALIGNERCO

ALIGNERCO
Cost
$895 (daytime); $1,095 (nighttime)
Treatment duration
6 to 11 months
Impression type
Putty mold
Day/night options
Offers both

ALIGNERCO is an affordable at-home dental treatment service — it doesn't have any physical locations. Starting the process is simple: You just need to answer an online questionnaire and then purchase an impression kit to see if you qualify for treatment. The aligners should be worn for approximately 20 to 22 hours a day for the best results.

The impression kit costs $39.99 (refundable upon nonqualification). As of publishing, ALIGNERCO’s daytime aligners cost $895, and its nighttime aligners cost $1,095 — one of the lowest prices on the market.

The company’s aligners are handmade with Food and Drug Administration-approved materials, and ALIGNERCO will refund the cost of the kit if you’re not a good candidate for treatment. The impression kit ($39.99) is also more affordable than that of some of its counterparts.

ConsumerAffairs reviewers often mention the ease of the process with ALIGNERCO. Jenny of Texas said about her experience: “Good service. Was easy to start up. Braces arrived promptly and were changed out every 10 days. The teeth whitening appliance and gel worked very well. I would definitely recommend this product to anyone wanting to improve their smile.”

Invisible Braces Buyers Guide

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Invisible braces buyers guide

Invisible braces use clear plastic retainers to realign teeth. Also called clear aligners or dental aligners, invisible braces are a smart option for many people since they’re more discreet and comfortable than traditional braces. In this guide, learn how they work, how much they cost and how to choose the right option for you.

What are invisible braces?

Invisible braces are clear retainers that straighten and align your teeth over time. Sometimes called clear aligners or dental aligners, invisible braces usually come in a series and are an excellent option for those with:

  • Crooked teeth
  • Gapped teeth
  • Crowding
  • Overlapping
  • Overbite
  • Underbite

Invisible braces aren't as obvious as other methods because the aligners are made of clear plastic (like clear polypropylene) or acrylic material instead of metal wires.

Some people think of ceramic braces, which are wired to the teeth like traditional metal braces, as invisible braces, but ceramic braces are visible and require extensive in-office orthodontic care. Clear aligners, on the other hand, don’t require hardwiring attached to the teeth.

How do clear aligners work?

Clear aligners use a series of clear plastic retainer sets, sometimes called trays. The trays fit tightly and put low-pressure force on your teeth to gradually shift them into place over time.

The first clear aligner tray fits easily because the plastic has been vacuum-formed or thermoformed over a model of your teeth. Each new retainer set presses your teeth into a slightly straighter position than the one before.

Generally, clear aligners must be worn at least 20 to 22 hours per day.

Invisible braces companies use advanced imaging technology to create the right treatment option for every customer’s smile. Some people experience a minimal amount of discomfort each time they put in a new set of aligners, which is required every couple of weeks.

Some companies use attachments, which are tooth-colored bumps fitted to your teeth. The exact points at which these bumps are placed, as well as the shape of these bumps, vary based on the shape of your teeth and the results you're striving to achieve.

These bumps act as pressure points and direct each tooth to move toward the desired position. In some cases, your treatment may require elastics. These are attached to the inner part of your jaw and help aid the tooth movement.

How to use clear aligners

The following are important if you want to get the best results out of your clear aligners:

  • Soaking your aligners once a day
  • Brushing and flossing each time you take out and put in aligners
  • Thinking about your snack and food intake while you have on aligners
  • Drinking plenty of water

Behaviors to avoid with clear aligners

The following behaviors are best avoided when you have clear aligners:

  • Drinking lots of caffeinated beverages — they can stain your aligners
  • Leaving your trays out in the open where they’re susceptible to bacteria
  • Forgetting to switch aligners when it's time to do so
  • Smoking, which can result in your aligners becoming discolored

Usually, you want to have clear aligners on your teeth at least 20 to 22 hours per day for them to fully work and bring your teeth to the proper position. You can take them out to eat, brush and floss, but that’s about it.

Dr. Fatima Khan, a dentist and the co-founder of Riven Oral Care, says that in order for clear aligners to be effective they, “need to be worn for a minimum of 22 hours per day to achieve the desired results.”

You can drink water with your aligners in, but it's recommended that you avoid soda, coffee, tea and other dark liquids that might stain the retainer sets. Hard candy, crunchy breads and gum should also be avoided to prevent plaque buildup.

Some people who wear clear aligners experience unintentional weight loss due to the hassle of removing the retainer for snacks, which many people refer to as the "Invisalign diet."

Some companies, including some of our top picks, offer nighttime aligners that don’t need to be worn during the day. While these aligners may be more convenient, they typically take longer to achieve full results.

Clear aligners vs. braces

Much like traditional metal braces, clear aligners correct crooked teeth and misaligned bites. Busy professionals and young adults with mild to moderate dental misalignments often prefer invisible braces because they're cheaper, simpler and more discreet than traditional metal braces.

While traditional and lingual braces have wires and brackets, invisible braces use clear retainers. Metal braces require more frequent office visits for regular tightenings and checkups — most clear aligner companies, on the other hand, mail all your trays at once.

Braces are typically worn for years, while dental aligner treatment typically takes months (up to around a year). According to Dr. Khan, “The average treatment time is about 12 to 18 months, although it can vary based on the complexity and severity of the individual’s dental issues and can be shorter or longer.” Clear aligners are also more hygienic, and it’s not a problem to eat all types of food throughout treatment.

Invisible braces aren't always the best fit for extensive teeth straightening or severe alignment issues, though. If your dentist strongly suggests traditional braces, clear aligners may not be an option for you. Clear aligners are great for making small adjustments, but traditional metal or ceramic braces are usually required to complete severe corrections.

» LEARN MORE: Invisible braces statistics

Invisible braces pros and cons

There are a few advantages and disadvantages to invisible braces. Consider the following pros and cons before you pursue this option:

Pros

  • Typically more comfortable and attractive than traditional metal braces
  • Convenient form of treatment that can be handled from home
  • Can be removed for everyday tasks like brushing and eating
  • Low-maintenance removal and cleaning
  • More affordable than traditional braces

Cons

  • May require more attachments to reposition misaligned teeth
  • Must be removed for eating and drinking
  • Wearer usually has to change trays regularly
  • Not always effective for extensive alignment

How much do invisible braces cost?

Invisible braces typically cost between $1,000 and $7,000. Depending on your treatment plan and your insurance provider, invisible aligners may be covered in part or in full by dental insurance. Most HSA and FSA plans can also be used to cover the cost, and all the best dental alignment companies offer financing options to help you reduce the upfront costs.

This cost, according to Dr. Khan, “generally covers the consultation, custom aligners and follow-up visits. The price may fluctuate based on the specific treatment plan, the number of aligners needed and geographical location.”

» MORE: How much do invisible braces cost?

Your invisible braces’ cost ultimately depends upon the severity of your case. Some invisible braces companies let you mail in your dental impressions without seeing a doctor, dentist or orthodontist. If your situation requires in-office fittings and approval, you should expect to pay a higher price.

Overall, clear aligner systems are usually more affordable than traditional braces, which may cost anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000; the cheapest invisible braces start at around $1,000, with financing options available.

» COMPARE: The cheapest teeth aligners

How to straighten teeth at home with invisible braces

Straightening teeth at home with invisible braces is simple. After your initial consultation, an orthodontic specialist creates a treatment plan and fits you for invisible braces. Depending on your plan, the orthodontic treatment duration can be as short as a few months or as long as a year. After your teeth are straight, there are a few post-care boxes to check. The typical steps in the process are:

  1. Consultation: The first step to straightening teeth at home is to determine if you’re a candidate for invisible braces. Many invisible braces companies start the process with an online questionnaire that asks about the severity of crowding, spacing and bite issues and whether or not you’ve had previous dental work.
  2. Fitting: Some companies require an office visit and X-rays to create dental impressions, but many of the best invisible braces companies provide at-home impression kits so you can do this at home and mail your impressions to the company.
  3. Evaluation: Dental impressions are usually scanned and 3D-printed. An orthodontist then evaluates the impression of your mouth and creates a treatment plan for you to review. If you like what you see, a series of clear aligners (called trays) are mailed to you in a few weeks.
  4. Orthodontic treatment: You wear each clear aligner for approximately two weeks before moving on to the next tray in the series. Clear aligners typically must be worn around 22 hours each day, so you need to keep the tray in your mouth as much as possible. Most invisible braces treatments take between six and 18 months, but you could start seeing improvements to a misaligned tooth within a month. You can clean the aligners with a little water and soap or peroxide.
  5. Aftercare: Once your alignment treatment is complete, the company sends you a post-care retainer to ensure your teeth don’t shift back to how they were before. Removable retainers are available for nighttime wear, or you might opt for a permanent retainer, which is a small strip of metal fastened to the back surface of your teeth.

FAQ

What do retainers do?

Retainers are used to make and maintain orthodontic corrections to achieve straighter teeth. Clear alignment treatments use retainers to slowly straighten and align teeth through gradual force over time.

A retainer for teeth straightening is designed to be slightly smaller than your teeth placement to slowly and safely close gaps. Because of this, customers receive multiple clear aligners that are switched out over time to continue to push their teeth together once they reach their desired position in one retainer.

Can you straighten your teeth without braces?

Yes, you can straighten your teeth without traditional braces. You can fix crooked and gapped teeth at home by using clear retainers that gradually realign your teeth. Clear aligners use custom-made molds and gentle force to shape your teeth into alignment. These aligners are typically fitted and created by dentists or orthodontists, so the same level of care and support is provided with this smile solution as with traditional braces.

What type of braces works the fastest?

Invisible braces generally work faster than traditional wire braces. Clear retainers can solve a host of dental issues, including overcrowding, overbites, underbites and gaps between teeth, in as few as six months. The average treatment time for clear retainers is between six and 18 months, though more severe issues might require a longer treatment plan.

Traditional braces are specifically designed to target problem issues in the most effective ways, meaning they may be faster than clear teeth aligners for correcting severe problems. But for the most part, invisible braces offer faster solutions — sometimes in half the time — at a more affordable price.

Can you get teeth aligners over the counter?

Yes, you can buy teeth aligners over the counter. Some companies sell cheap teeth-straightening aligners that are not custom-designed to fit each customer’s smile. Other companies sell dental impression kits that customers complete and return for custom-made trays. Getting a retainer for teeth straightening doesn’t require an in-person office visit or consultation with a dentist or orthodontist, although some clear aligners are sold directly by orthodontists.

Do invisible braces hurt?

Invisible braces can be uncomfortable. However, invisible braces typically cause less discomfort than traditional metal and wire braces. Many customers say it’s not exactly pain that they feel with invisible braces — it’s more like discomfort or pressure.

With invisible teeth aligners, the most common pain points are where the trays brush up against your gums for a few days after switching to a new retainer. As your teeth and gums get used to the retainer, the pain fades and may even become nonexistent until a new tray is required.

What are the benefits of clear aligners?

The most important benefit of clear aligners is the orthodontic correction of mild to moderate dental issues, including crooked teeth, crowded teeth, gapped teeth, overjets, overbite and underbite. Clear aligners are less expensive than popular alternatives like metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces and veneers. They are also more comfortable and discreet.

Because they can be removed, there isn’t the unsightly issue of getting food stuck in clear aligners. They can also be removed for special occasions like pictures. Invisible braces require fewer or no visits to a dentist’s office.

On the other hand, invisible braces aren’t ideal for correcting severe alignment issues like crossbites and malocclusions. People must be diligent for clear retainers to work, and wearers must clean them each day to prevent dental problems like gum disease.

Can anyone get invisible braces?

The short answer is no. Invisible braces can treat many of the common issues around teeth alignment such as crowding or crookedness. You can talk to your dentist about your suitability. However, many companies offer clear aligners without requiring you to visit a dentist’s office. If the dentist determines you require extensive dental correction, then invisible may not be an option.

However, invisible braces may be a good idea if:

  • A few of your teeth are visibly crooked or crowding in a certain area.
  • You have difficulty flossing in certain areas.
  • You end up biting your tongue by accident occasionally.
  • Your mouth doesn’t close properly because of your teeth.
  • You experience fatigue or stress after or while chewing.
What are invisible braces made of?

Invisible braces are made of acrylic, which is a type of plastic. This plastic is molded and fitted to the shape of your teeth and designed to move your teeth into the proper position.

What are the different types of invisible braces?

There are three types of invisible braces:

  • Ceramic braces use brackets and wires to straighten teeth, much like traditional braces. The brackets in ceramic braces, however, are clear, which makes them much less visible than traditional braces. These could take as little as six months for quick effects.
  • Clear aligners are removable trays made of plastic or ceramic material that fit over the teeth. The trays put low-force pressure on the teeth and move them over time. These take six to 18 months, on average.
  • Lingual braces use a bracket-and-wire system to align teeth and repair bite issues, just like traditional braces. The difference, however, is that lingual braces are placed behind the teeth rather than on the front, making them virtually invisible because of their low profile.
Are invisible braces worth it?

Invisible braces can be worth it if you're diligent about sticking to the treatment, including wearing the retainers as directed. If you're self-conscious about your smile or the way your teeth look, invisible braces can make you feel more confident and boost your self-esteem. Invisible braces can be a good path to take if you're looking for something to help straighten your teeth discreetly.

Not sure how to choose?

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    Compare top invisible braces companies

    Showing 9 of 9

    Clear aligners reviews

    Byte

    Byte uses proprietary Smile Science to move customers’ teeth in a way that aligns with facial features and symmetry. Customers also get free BrightByte teeth whitening.

    Read 4696 Reviews
    Candid

    Candid employs orthodontists who are experts on clear aligner treatments and trained in remote care. Treatments come with personalized care and 24/7 customer service to answer any questions.

    Read 525 Reviews
    Invisalign

    Invisalign uses advanced technologies to correct gaps and crowding. Its alignment retainers are comfortable throughout the treatment duration.

    Read 83 Reviews
    SnapCorrect

    SnapCorrect prioritizes effectiveness and efficiency. Its team provides one of the clearest aligners available on the market, plus free dental foam and gel home whitening kit.

    • Invisible braces cost: Pay a one-time cost or $1,749 or opt into $80 monthly payments over two years. Financing has a 10% APR.
    • Treatment duration: Most customers see results in three to 18 months.
    • Aligner specifications: The company designs multiple invisible aligners to straighten teeth over time. SnapCorrect does not use 3D printers, which allows its aligners to fit more snugly and comfortably to the teeth.
    • Fitting options: The SnapCorrect impression kit comes with everything you need to get started.
    • No-risk guarantee: Customers can try SnapCorrect for free with its no-risk guarantee.
    SureSmile

    SureSmile offers customized treatment plans created using advanced orthodontic technologies. Using the help and expertise of SureSmile doctors, the company provides customized solutions tailored to your specific smile and desired results.

    • Invisible braces cost: Costs vary by treatment plan.
    • Treatment duration: The length of treatment plans vary by customer.
    • Aligner specifications: SureSmile’s aligners are made from high-grade materials and designed with advanced software and anatomically correct movements. Each customer receives multiple invisible aligners to gradually correct their teeth over time.
    • Fitting options: Customers must meet with a SureSmile doctor for evaluation and impressions.
    SmileDirectClub

    Smile Direct Club offers clear daytime aligners and clear nighttime aligners. Each customer is assigned a licensed orthodontist or dentist to track their progress every 90 days.

    Read 2419 Reviews
    ClearCorrect

    ClearCorrect aligners reposition and correct teeth using continuous gentle force. ClearCorrect was founded by doctors who emphasize safety, reliability and effectiveness.

    Read Review
    NewSmile

    NewSmile offers all-day and nighttime-only teeth aligners. Use the impression kit at home, and the company provides a 3D preview of your treatment results.

    • Invisible braces cost: Pricing starts at $1,195. Financing with 100% approval is available, with monthly payment options starting at $84 a month for 12 months. Payment plans require a $295 down payment.
    • Treatment duration: Average treatment is four to six months. For night-only braces, it takes eight to 10 months.
    • Aligner specifications: Aligners are made from BPA- and latex-free plastic. All-day aligners must be worn 22 hours per day; night-only aligners require 10 consecutive hours of wear per day.
    • Fitting options: Initial impressions must be made at home using trays and putty. You can book a video call with an impression specialist for assistance.

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