Before You Google ‘Invisalign Treatment Near Me’ — Read This First

You’re not alone if you long for a straighter smile but dislike the thought of traditional metal braces. Every month, thousands of people type ‘Invisalign treatment near me’ into search bars, hoping to find a dentist near them that can make their dreams come true.

More than 21.1 million smiles have been straightened worldwide with Invisalign clear aligner technology, but before you embark on your journey, here’s a quick guide on what’s involved, what to expect, and how to get the best out of your treatment.

At Chesterfield Dentistry, we’ve helped countless patients enjoy the benefits of Invisalign, and we’re here to share insider tips so you can feel confident before you commit.

First, let’s cut to the basics ….

What exactly is Invisalign?

Invisalign is an orthodontic system that uses a series of customized clear, removable aligners to gradually move your teeth into their ideal position. Unlike metal braces, no wires or brackets are involved, just smooth BPA-free plastic aligners (trays) which are barely visible when worn. Even better, you get to enjoy a sneak preview of how your new smile will look.

So, what do you need to know before starting Invisalign?

7 Things to Know Before Starting Invisalign

1. Treatment times differ:

Although treatment with Invisalign takes on average 12-18 months for adults, this is just a guideline. Minor cases can sometimes be completed in as little as six months or sooner, whereas more complex cases can take 2 years or longer. Our dentist will tailor a plan according to your dental needs and smile goals.

2. Trays are removed to eat or drink:

Because Invisalign aligners are removable, you won’t have to give up your favorite foods like you might with traditional braces. However, you must remove them before eating or drinking anything other than water to prevent staining or damage.

3. Commitment is crucial:

To achieve the desired results, your aligners should be worn for a minimum of 20-22 hours a day (Yes, even while you’re sleeping). Taking them out too often and not putting them back in when you should, often slows progress, and in some cases, the teeth may shift back. We recommend using a tracking app or setting a timer on your phone to prevent you from forgetting to place your trays back in your mouth.

4. The first couple of days can be testing:

Because each aligner is designed to perform a certain tooth movement, trays are changed every 1-2 weeks, or as prescribed by your dentist. New trays can feel uncomfortably tight for the first couple of days of wearing them whilst they adjust to the new fit. This is a good sign as it shows your treatment is working. A top tip is to switch your aligners when you’re ready for bed. This way, you sleep through the initial discomfort.

5. Check-ins are part of the process:

While Invisalign requires fewer dental visits than metal braces, regular check-ins are required every 6 to 8 weeks to monitor your progress and enable your dentist to make any necessary adjustments.

6. Oral hygiene is even more important:

Brushing after every meal and flossing daily is essential to prevent food particles from becoming trapped beneath the trays, raising the risk of infection, bad breath and cavities.

7. Costs can vary:

The national average cost for Invisalign is between $3,000 and $5,000. However, factors such as the complexity and duration of your treatment, and even the clinic’s location, can influence the price. Fortunately, many dental insurance plans now cover some of the cost, and most dentists offer flexible payment plans.

These are the 7 things you need to know before starting Invisalign treatment, but what about a few of the things you thought you knew?

Busting Invisalign Myths

“Invisalign only works for minor cases.”

That’s not true. Modern Invisalign technology allows dentists to correct spacing, overbites, underbites and more, without a metal wire in sight. The key is precision planning by experienced dentists like us.

“I can remove my aligners whenever I want”

While technically, yes, you can, not wearing them for the allotted time may slow progress and could incur additional aligners, longer treatment time, and more cost. Think of them as ‘clear braces’ you need to wear most of the day.

“Invisalign and mail-order aligners are the same”

It’s true that clear aligners ordered online look very similar to Invisalign, but they’re nowhere near as capable. Inaccurate impressions you have to take yourself, coupled with the lack of a specialist orthodontist to plan and supervise your treatment, can leave you feeling dissatisfied with the results and a bitter taste in your mouth.

Choosing the Right Invisalign Provider

Typing “Invisalign treatment near me” into Google will bring up plenty of options, but not all providers offer the same level of expertise. Here’s what to look for:

• Invisalign-trained dentists who have completed official certification.
• A proven track record with before-and-after cases.
• Access to advanced digital scanning (such as the iTero scanner) for precise fit and faster aligner production.
• Convenient location and appointment times for your schedule.

At Chesterfield Dentistry, we combine cutting-edge technology with compassionate care. We’ll walk you through the entire process, answer your questions, and ensure your aligners are comfortable and effective every step of the way.

The Benefits You Can Expect

• Discreet treatment - most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them.
• No food restrictions - simply remove aligners before eating.
• Easier oral hygiene - brush and floss as usual.
• Predictable results - thanks to advanced digital treatment planning.

What’s more, a 2025 study in the Journal of Pharmacy and Bioallied Sciences found that Invisalign patients reported higher satisfaction with the comfort and appearance of treatment compared to traditional braces.

Final Thoughts

Beginning Invisalign is an exciting step toward achieving the smile you’ve always wanted, but success depends on knowing what to expect and choosing the right provider.

Before you search for “Invisalign treatment near me” and make a quick decision, take the time to find a trusted local dentist who can guide you every step of the way.

If you’re in Chesterfield, MO, or the surrounding area, our friendly team at Chesterfield Dentistry is here to help. Book your free Invisalign consultation today and take the first step toward your new smile