4 Tips for Staying on Track with Invisalign When Traveling

Traveling! It’s a great opportunity to relax, explore new places, expand your horizons, and spend time with friends and family. But if you’re undergoing Invisalign treatment, it’s important not to let your vacation disrupt your progress. Your clear aligners need to be worn consistently, even when you’re away from home. With some preparation, you can enjoy your trip while keeping your Invisalign treatment on schedule.

Here are 4 tips to help!

1. Bring the Essentials

Before you leave, make yourself a little Invisalign travel kit. Include your current aligners, the next set if you’re scheduled to switch during your trip, a protective case, a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss.

Consider packing extra supplies in case your luggage is delayed or something gets misplaced. Never wrap your aligners in a napkin while eating, as they can easily be thrown away accidentally. Always keep them in their case when they’re not in your mouth.

2. Don’t Sway from Your Wear Schedule

Travel can make it easy to lose track of time, but your aligners still need to be worn for about 20 to 22 hours per day.

Remove your aligners when eating or drinking beverages other than water and put them back in as soon as you’re finished. If you’re traveling across time zones, use reminders on your phone to help you stay consistent with your normal routine.

Bear in mind that repeatedly leaving your aligners out for extended periods could set your treatment progress back.

3. Be Prepared for Meals on the Go

Airports, road trips, sightseeing, and restaurant meals can throw a wrench in your usual oral hygiene routine. This is where your travel kit will come in handy.

Remember to take out your aligners before eating and brush and floss your teeth before putting them back in whenever possible. If you can’t brush immediately, rinse your mouth with water to at least remove food debris until you can clean your teeth properly.

4. Know What to Do If Something Goes Wrong

Lost or damaged aligners can be especially stressful when you’re away from home. Keep your dentist’ss contact information readily available in case you need advice.

If you lose an aligner, don’t automatically skip ahead to the next one. Your provider can tell you whether to use a previous aligner, move to the next tray, or take another step based on your treatment plan.

If you’re traveling internationally, it may be a good idea before leaving to call your dentist and get advice in the event an emergency happens so you’ll know how to respond should an unfortunate accident occur.

Invisalign doesn’t have to interfere with your travel plans. With a little preparation, you can maintain your wear schedule, care for your teeth, and keep your treatment moving forward.

About the Practice

Drew Beaty DDS in Federal Way, WA is your one-stop shop for all things Invisalign! Dr. Drew Beaty and Dr. Brandon Walker are preferred Invisalign providers and offer convenient morning, evening, and lunchtime appointments so you can fit us into your busy schedule. If you’re ready for a straighter, healthier smile, call us at (253) 839-6544 to set up an appointment or schedule online.