With summer vacation coming, you might find yourself planning a trip and wondering how to navigate travel for the first time with Invisalign. Invisalign is an incredibly popular tooth straightening option, so lots of patients are asking the same question.

How to Prepare for Your Trip

Preparation is key when it comes to traveling with Invisalign. By planning ahead, you can enjoy your trip and still ensure that your Invisalign treatment doesn’t miss a beat.

First, make sure you are up to date with your orthodontist visits before you leave. We will check your progress and make sure you’re on track. Plus, we can provide any additional aligners you’ll need for your trip.

Next, you should think about packing. Don’t forget your Invisalign case, cleaning supplies, and a travel toothbrush. Consider how long you will be away, and think about whether you will need to move on to your next set while you are gone. Make sure you pack all of the aligners you will need. Packaging your next or previous set may also be a good idea so you have a backup in case your current aligner tray goes missing.

While You Travel

Now that you have double-checked you are packed and ready to go, what do you need to know while you are away?

Keeping Your Invisalign Clean on the Go

Maintaining good oral hygiene is absolutely vital while traveling with Invisalign. You don’t want to slack even though you are on vacation. Brush your teeth and clean your aligners on the same schedule you normally would while at home.

Time zone changes and jet lag can truly affect your normal routine, especially when you should make sure to wear your Invisalign aligners for 22 hours a day. Try to adjust your aligner schedule to your new time zone as soon as possible. This will help you keep track of when to change your aligners. Remember, consistency is key when it comes to Invisalign treatment.

Ensure the Water is Safe

Speaking of cleaning your aligners, you should already have a habit of rinsing your aligners every time you eat. This prevents the buildup of bacteria or food particles. So it is also a good idea to always carry a water bottle with you. This will not only keep you hydrated but will also help you rinse your mouth and aligners when needed.

But be wary of unsafe tap water if you are traveling to an area that may have water safety issues. If water is not safe to drink, you should not brush your teeth, rinse out your mouth, or clean your aligners with it. Choose bottled water instead to be safe.

Eating and Drinking with Invisalign While Traveling

Eating and drinking while wearing Invisalign can be a bit tricky, but not if you know what you’re doing. The golden rule is to take your aligners out when eating or drinking anything other than water. And always store your aligners in their case when they’re not in your mouth to avoid losing them.

Getting a bright, noticeable case can help. Since you may be eating out a lot, avoid putting your aligners and case down on a table or food tray where they may inadvertently get thrown away. Your pocket or bag is the better option.

What to Do in Case of an Aligner Emergency

What if you lose or break your aligners while traveling? First, don’t panic. Do your best to re-trace your steps as you would at home. If you can’t find them, don’t worry.

If you’ve followed our advice and packed extra aligners, you’re already one step ahead. Simply move on to your next aligner or your previous set until you can consult with our office.

Enjoy the Journey!

Traveling with Invisalign for the first time may seem daunting, but as you can see, it’s not as hard as it sounds. With a little bit of planning, you can vacation with ease and not get off course.

If you haven’t started yet, are you ready to embark on a new adventure with Invisalign? Contact our office to learn more about whether Invisalign is right for you.