Whether you’re heading off for a weekend getaway, a business trip, or an overseas adventure, Invisalign doesn’t have to interfere with your travel plans. In fact, one of the best things about Invisalign is that it’s designed to be flexible and convenient, perfect for people on the go. Still, traveling with Invisalign requires a little extra planning to keep your treatment on schedule and your aligners clean and safe. Here are some practical tips to help you stay consistent and stress-free while traveling with Invisalign.
Pack a Travel-Friendly Invisalign Kit
Before you hit the road, create a small kit with everything you need to take care of your aligners. Your kit should include:
- Your Invisalign case (never wrap aligners in a napkin—they can easily get thrown away!).
- Travel-size toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Floss or floss picks.
- Mouthwash (optional).
- Aligner cleaning crystals or tablets.
- Extra aligner trays if you’re due for a switch during your trip.
Having these essentials on hand will make it much easier to stick to your routine, even in airports or hotel rooms.
Stick to the 22-Hour Rule
Travel can throw off your schedule, but it’s important to maintain the recommended 20 to 22 hours of daily wear. That means removing your aligners only for meals, snacks, and brushing. If you’re snacking more than usual while sightseeing or on the road, try to plan meals in advance and reduce in-between snacks to minimize aligner removal.
Set alarms or reminders on your phone if you need help keeping track of wear time.
Clean Aligners Even When It’s Inconvenient
It might be tempting to skip brushing or rinsing your aligners when you’re in a rush, but that can lead to odor, bacteria buildup, or even cavities. Always rinse your aligners before putting them back in, and brush your teeth after every meal, even if it means carrying a toothbrush into a public restroom.
If brushing isn’t possible right away, at least rinse your mouth and aligners with water until you can clean them properly.
Keep Aligners with You While Flying
When flying, keep your aligners and supplies in your carry-on bag, not in checked luggage. Luggage can get delayed or lost, and you don’t want to be without your aligners for an extended period. It’s also smart to bring your previous set of aligners just in case something happens to your current ones; you’ll have a backup until you can get a replacement.
Communicate with Your Dentist or Orthodontist
If you’ll be traveling for an extended period, let your provider know. They can give you additional aligners in advance, provide special instructions, or help you create a game plan for staying on track during your trip.
Traveling with Invisalign takes a little preparation, but it’s completely manageable, and it shouldn’t stop you from enjoying your trip. With the right tools and mindset, you can stay on track with your treatment and enjoy your journey with confidence. So pack smart, stay consistent, and don’t forget to smile!
About the Practice
At Wolfe Dental Hillsboro, we’ve got all your Invisalign needs covered, whether you need travel advice or you’re interested in taking the first steps to straighten out your smile. Our effective and trusted dental team can give you a completely customized treatment plan. Plus, we accept dental insurance to try and ease the financial burden on you. Ready to start your journey together today? Schedule an appointment through our website or call us at (503) 844-6550.