8 Travel Tips for Invisalign Wearers

Whether you are a careful planner or spontaneous traveler, if you’re headed out of town, it’s important to make sure you’re prepared to manage your Invisalign every day. The success of this orthodontic alternative relies on consistency and, even if you’re on vacation or a business trip, your adherence to your Invisalign plan is essential.

Here are some important tips to follow, no matter where your travels take you.

1. Take Along Extra Aligners

Even if you’ve just started a new set of trays, it’s a good idea to bring along your previous set of trays and your next set. You may only be planning to be away for the weekend, but having backup trays at the ready should something happen to the ones you’re wearing, or should you end up staying longer than anticipated, keeps your smile makeover on track.

2. Keep Your Trays Close

Make sure you pack all your Invisalign supplies – especially extra trays – in your carry-on luggage if you’re flying. Bags get lost and delayed all the time. You don’t want to be caught without your necessary supplies.

3. Don’t Forget Your Case

Because you’ll be out of your normal routine no matter where you’re traveling or what you’re doing, there is always the danger of misplacing your trays during mealtime. Make sure you have your case with you at all times so your trays are always in there if they’re no in your mouth.

4. Always Have Bottled Water Handy

Brushing throughout the day while traveling isn’t always convenient or possible. At the very least, have a bottle of water at the ready so you can swish it around in your mouth to remove food particles before reinserting your trays.

5. Invest in a Travel Brush

If it is possible to brush after every meal, make it happen by keeping a travel toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouthwash in a mini cleaning kit in your bag or pocket. You’ll be happy to have these tools available, especially if you’ve gotten used to brushing and flossing after every meal and before Invisalign goes back in your mouth.

6. Maintain Your Cleaning Routine

Even if your days are busy with adventures or work obligations, keep up with your regular dental care routine in the morning and at night. Don’t forget to pack your cleaning products for your trays as well as a small reusable cup for daily soaking.

7. Wear Your Trays

A vacation from your daily life is not a vacation from Invisalign. It is essential to keep your treatment on track, even if you’re going away for a few days, a week, or more. Be sure to continue to wear your aligners 20 to 22 hours a day and follow all the same rules of wearing Invisalign that you follow when you’re home so any progress you’ve made is not lost.

8. Tell Your Dentist You’re Traveling

If you’ll be traveling for any length of time, let your Haymarket Invisalign provider at LifeTime Smiles know about it. You don’t have to come in for an appointment if you’re not due, but it’s a good idea to check in with a simple phone call. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have about dealing with Invisalign while you’re away and offer troubleshooting tips should you need them.