What’s The Best Clear Aligner for You? Brands & Companies You Should Know

Clear aligners are a modern, discreet way to straighten teeth without the wires and brackets of traditional braces.
They’re made of smooth, transparent plastic that fits snugly over your teeth and gradually shifts them into place.
Today, clear aligners are more popular than ever because they’re:
- Nearly invisible
- Removable for eating and cleaning
- Often faster than traditional options
As demand grows, a wide variety of options have hit the market, including:
- In-office systems like Invisalign and Invisalign Teen
- Direct-to-consumer brands like Byte and AlignerCo
- Hybrid models like Candid
Choosing the best clear aligners starts with knowing the differences.
Understanding Clear Aligners
To get started, let’s break down how clear aligners work, who they help, and the types of treatment models available.
How Clear Aligners Work
Clear aligners apply gentle, controlled pressure to shift teeth over time. The treatment process involves wearing a series of custom-fit trays, with each new set moving teeth slightly closer to the final position.
- Worn 20–22 hours a day
- Switched out every 1–2 weeks
- Gradual, consistent progress
Read next: Understanding How Teeth Move With Clear Aligners
Who They’re For
Clear aligners are ideal for:
- Mild to moderate misalignment
- Crowding, spacing, or minor bite issues
- Post-braces relapse correction
Office-Based vs At-Home Treatment Models
Office-based treatments involve in-person care with a dentist or orthodontist. At-home models use remote monitoring and are only intended for simpler cases.
Choosing between the two depends on your case complexity and how much professional oversight you want. However, experts—including the ADA—warn that skipping professional oversight can lead to long-term dental issues.
Since many problems aren’t visible without X-rays or a full exam, it’s safest to get a check-up with your dentist or orthodontist before starting any clear aligner treatment.
What’s the Best Clear Aligner Brand For You?
Choosing the right clear aligner brand depends on your dental needs, case complexity, lifestyle, and budget. Here’s a deeper comparison of the top clear aligner companies to help you decide.
Best Overall: Invisalign
Invisalign is the most established clear aligner brand, trusted by dentists and orthodontists worldwide. It’s known for:
- Decades of experience and clinical research
- Proprietary SmartTrack® material for better comfort and control
- SmartForce® attachments to handle complex tooth movements
- In-office monitoring from certified providers
- Proven success with overbite, underbite, crossbite, and crowding
Invisalign’s biggest strength is its reliability and ability to treat even the most complex cases. Its high success rate is backed by years of clinical use and strong provider support.
However, it is one of the more expensive options on the market and requires consistent in-person visits to your local orthodontist.
Read next: Should I Get Invisalign? 3 Things That Make a Good Candidate
Best for Fast Treatment: Byte
Byte is a direct-to-consumer brand focused on speed and simplicity. It offers:
- Treatment in as little as 3–6 months
- Daily use of the HyperByte® device
- Fully remote care model
- Suited for mild to moderate alignment issues
Byte is perfect for patients looking for quick results and minimal disruption to daily life. The at-home process is convenient, and the HyperByte device may reduce discomfort.
Still, it’s not ideal for more complex alignment problems, because of the lack of dental/orthodontic oversight.
Most Affordable: AlignerCo
AlignerCo offers one of the lowest prices in the clear aligner market. It features:
- At-home treatment using mail-in impressions
- Flexible payment plans
- No in-office checkups
- Focused on cosmetic correction
AlignerCo is an appealing option for budget-conscious individuals with only mild dental misalignment. Its affordability and ease of use make it very accessible, but the trade-off is minimal professional oversight, which could lead to issues in more complicated cases.
Best Hybrid Model: Candid
Candid blends the convenience of at-home aligners with professional care. It includes:
- Hybrid model: in-office scans + remote monitoring
- Orthodontist-designed treatment plans
- App-based progress tracking
- Suitable for moderate cases
Candid stands out for providing strong clinical oversight while keeping much of the process remote. It’s ideal for patients who want professional input without committing to frequent office visits.
However, it costs more than basic DTC models and may not be available in all areas.
Best for Stain Resistance: Reveal
Reveal aligners are ultra-clear and designed to resist stains. They offer:
- Orthodontist-supervised treatment
- Attachments for better control
- Aesthetic-focused design
- Great transparency throughout wear
Reveal is a great pick for users who value clarity and discretion. It’s delivered through providers, ensuring better guidance and fit.
That said, Reveal isn’t as widely known as some of its competitors and pricing may vary based on location.

Find the Best Clear Aligner for You: Final Thoughts & Expert Help
Now that you’ve seen how the top clear aligner brands compare, it’s time to decide what fits your needs best. Clear aligners are a great, effective way to straighten teeth, but not every option works for every case.
Invisalign is still the most proven option for many treatments. Byte stands out for its speed, while AlignerCo appeals to those on a budget. Candid offers the best hybrid clear aligner model, and Reveal is great for its clarity and aesthetics.
To get the best results, start with a professional evaluation. Consult with a local orthodontist–if you’re in Longmont or Boulder, contact Dr. Ross of Longmont Braces at 303-772-0510 (one of Colorado’s most trusted experts in Invisalign and clear aligner treatment!)
FAQ
Are clear aligners safe?
Yes, clear aligners are safe when used under professional supervision. DIY treatment without dental oversight can lead to long-term oral health issues.
Do clear aligners really work?
Clear aligners are effective for treating mild to moderate misalignment. Brands like Invisalign have a strong track record with millions of successful cases.
Can I get aligners without seeing a dentist?
Some brands offer fully remote models, but most experts recommend at least one in-person evaluation to avoid complications.
How long does treatment take?
Most treatment plans last between 4 to 12 months, depending on case complexity and aligner brand.
What happens if I lose an aligner?
Contact your provider immediately. They may advise you to wear your previous tray or move on to the next one, depending on your progress.