Traveling with Invisalign is totally doable—but it does require a bit of planning. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, aligner care needs to continue as usual in order to keep your progress going. Invisalign trays perform best when you wear them 20 to 22 hours per day. Not wearing them, or putting changes off, will delay your progress. To ensure you stay on track, planning and being diligent about your oral routine are necessary.
Most Invisalign patients wonder how they can maintain their schedule without any interruption when on the road. The following is a straightforward guide with easy-to-follow steps to enable you to stay on track with your Invisalign treatment while travelling stress-free.
Prepare Before You Travel
Preparation is key. Before embarking on your travel, discuss with your Invisalign provider and inform them of your trip.
What to Pack for Your Aligner Routine
Create a travel-efficient dental kit:
- Your current aligner set
- Your new set of aligners (if you’re changing in the course of the trip)
- Invisalign case to place aligners during meals or when drinking
- Travel toothbrush, floss, and transparent aligner clean crystals
- Additional aligner chewies to ensure a close fit
Keeping aligners clean and in storage avoids damage or bacterial growth away from home.
Stay on Schedule
Whether you’re traveling to a new time zone or eating out more than normal, consistency is essential. Always try to wear your aligners for a minimum of 20 hours a day. Take them out only for meals and brush them after every use.
Missed a cleaning session? Rinse them right away with water and clean as soon as you can. Follow your regular switching schedule unless instructed otherwise by your provider.
Set Travel-Friendly Reminders
Travel might make you forget your Invisalign care regimen. Place reminders on your phone for:
- Putting in your aligners after you eat
- Changing to the next tray set
- Cleaning your aligners before bed
These little reminders will avoid delays and keep your Invisalign treatment on track during travel.
Know What to Do if Problems Arise
If you break or lose an aligner, inform your Invisalign dentist in Carthage immediately. They can advise you on wearing your old tray or proceeding to the next one. Do not skip aligners without consulting your dentist, as it may affect your bite and alignment.
Invisalign Tips for International Travel
- Pack your trays and dental kit in your carry-on, not checked baggage
- Bring a hard copy of your aligner schedule
- Have your Invisalign doctor’s contact information readily available
- Use bottled or filtered water to rinse your aligners while traveling overseas
Keep Your Progress Steady, Even on the Go
A little preparation can go a long way. With good care and consistency, your vacation doesn’t have to disrupt your smile plan. Be committed to wearing and cleaning your aligners as directed. This will keep your Invisalign treatment on schedule while traveling and prevent the necessity of timeline adjustments in the future.
