Byte Me

About Byte Me

Byte is a teledentistry company specializing in direct-to-consumer, doctor-directed clear aligners for cosmetic teeth straightening. Founded in 2017 by serial entrepreneurs Scott Cohen and Blake Johnson, the company launched its first products in early 2019. The business was established with a focus on making orthodontic care more accessible and affordable, foregoing venture capital to maintain a disciplined approach toward profitability and customer experience. This strategy proved successful, leading to rapid growth, which was further accelerated by the increased demand for at-home services during the COVID-19 pandemic. The company's business model is centered on a direct-to-consumer system that provides treatment for mild to moderate orthodontic needs. Customers begin by using an at-home impression kit, which is reviewed by a nationwide network of licensed dentists and orthodontists who then prescribe a custom treatment plan. The aligners are then mailed directly to the customer. A key feature of Byte's offering is the HyperByte® device, an FDA-cleared tool that uses high-frequency vibrations to potentially reduce treatment time and discomfort. The company also includes its 'BrightByte' teeth whitener with the aligner treatment. In a significant milestone, Byte was acquired by dental supply giant Dentsply Sirona for $1.04 billion in an all-cash deal that closed on December 31, 2020. The acquisition was intended to add scale to Dentsply Sirona's SureSmile® clear aligner business and combine Byte's direct-to-consumer platform with Dentsply's global reach and R&D capabilities. Following the acquisition, Byte's management team, including CEO Neeraj Gunsagar, continued to operate the business. However, as of late 2024, reports indicated that Byte had paused the processing of new orders and removed its social media presence, raising concerns among customers and signaling potential operational reviews.