Byte Shut Down: The Best Byte Alternatives for Retainers in 2026

Byte built a loyal customer base with its at-home aligner system and easy retainer replacements. Then it stopped. If you are a former Byte customer trying to figure out what to do next, you are not alone, and the path forward is straightforward.

What Happened to Byte

Byte was acquired by Dentsply Sirona in 2021 and wound down its direct-to-consumer operations in 2023. Customer service became inconsistent, retainer replacements were delayed or unavailable, and many users were left without a clear replacement option. The company's customer support line has been unreliable, and the at-home impression process that made Byte popular is no longer available through them.

If you still have your Byte retainer and it fits well, keep wearing it. But if it needs replacing, cracked, or lost, you need a new provider. Your old Byte impressions cannot be transferred, so you will need to take a new set.

What Byte Customers Need Now

Most former Byte customers are looking for one of two things: a replacement retainer to maintain their alignment results, or a new set of clear retainers because their old ones no longer fit. Both needs are straightforward to meet with a DTC provider that is still operating.

The process is the same as what Byte originally offered: an at-home impression kit, mailed to a dental lab, and a custom-fit retainer shipped back to you. Remi does exactly this, starting at $99, with free replacements included in every order.

Byte vs. Remi vs. the Dentist

Here is a direct comparison of your three main options for retainer replacement in 2026:

Going to a dentist is always a reliable option, but the cost is significantly higher and you need an in-person appointment. Remi offers the same custom-fit process Byte was built on, at a lower price, and is still operating.

How to Get a Remi Replacement Retainer After Byte

The process takes about two weeks from start to finish:

1. Order a custom clear retainer from Remi. Your impression kit ships immediately.
2. Take your impressions at home. The kit includes everything you need and step-by-step instructions.
3. Mail your impressions back in the prepaid return envelope.
4. Your retainers are fabricated in a certified US dental lab and shipped directly to you.

Every order includes free replacements, so if a retainer cracks or gets lost down the line, you are covered. This is the part Byte never offered.

If you also grind your teeth at night and were using a Byte device for that purpose, Remi makes custom night guards using the same at-home impression process, starting at $189.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still get retainers from Byte?

No. Byte wound down its direct-to-consumer operations and is no longer reliably fulfilling retainer replacement orders. Former customers need to find a new provider.

What is the best Byte alternative for retainers?

Remi is the closest like-for-like replacement: at-home impressions, custom-fit clear retainers, certified lab fabrication, and fast shipping. Retainers start at $99 with free replacements included.

Will my Byte impressions work with another company?

No. Each provider requires their own impression kit and process. You will need to take a new set of impressions, which takes about 10 minutes at home.

How long does it take to get a Remi retainer?

About two weeks from the day you submit your impressions. The impression kit ships to you immediately after ordering.

Does Remi offer free retainer replacements?

Yes. Free replacements are included with every Remi retainer order. If your retainer cracks, warps, or gets lost, you can request a replacement without paying again.