Wearing Invisalign is a little bit like having a toddler. You need to be prepared for every possible thing to happen, and it’s always a good idea to overpack so you’re never caught without the supplies you need. When you’re traveling, the responsibilities increase just a little, but they’re not more complicated than usual. If you keep the following travel tips in mind, whether your trip is short or long, international or local, you’ll be covered.
1. Take Along Extra Aligners
You may have just popped in a new set of trays yesterday, but it’s a good idea to bring along the most recent trays you finished as well as the next set of trays. Even if you’re not going to be away for more than a few days, you want backup in case something happens to the aligners you’re currently wearing.
2. Rely on Your Case
You take your phone everywhere you go. Your Invisalign case should be ever present too. Whenever you eat a meal or snack, your trays should go in their case. Anytime the aligners are not in your mouth, store them safely so there is no chance of throwing them away or losing them during a meal.
3. Know Where Your Trays Are at All Times
Those extra aligners and Invisalign supplies you pack should be on your person or at least not far from your sight. If your travels have you checking a bag, make sure your Invisalign is in your carry-on so there is no chance you and your bags won’t arrive at the same destination.
4. Maintain Your Routine
Invisalign trays need daily soaking and regular cleaning. Make sure you have your regular toothbrush and toothpaste to clean your teeth and trays in the morning and at night. Keep your small Invisalign travel kit with you too with mini toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, and mouthwash available so your routine never fails.
5. Be Consistent and Wear Your Trays
Traveling can be chaotic, especially with time changes and different places to lay your head every night. The success of Invisalign and Invisalign Teen relies on consistency, so it’s essential to stick to the plan and wear your trays for 20 to 22 hours a day, clean them properly, and store them safely when they’re not on your teeth.
You’re on vacation from the day-to-day, but you can’t be on vacation from Invisalign if you want your treatment to continue successfully. Stopping your treatment because you’re traveling will derail any progress you’ve already made. Your teeth are moving gently and consistently every day – and this must continue even during vacation.
6. Discuss Your Travel Plans with Your Invisalign Provider
If your travels are taking you away for a significant length of time, let your Arlington Invisalign provider know so you can make a game plan. It may be a good idea to have a checkup before you take off, and you may need to collect more trays. Otherwise, it’s smart to have a conversation about what to do if something happens with your trays or teeth while you’re away. Contact Dr. Alana Macalik to schedule an appointment.