Invisalign, a winning alternative to traditional braces for those with active lifestyles, has revolutionized orthodontic treatment. With greater flexibility and discretion, Invisalign aligners are especially popular among those who frequently travel. However, maintaining your treatment while on the move can present unique challenges. We won’t let that stop your plans, though! Today, we are walking you through essential Invisalign travel tips to help you stay on track with your orthodontic treatment as you traverse the world.
The Challenges of Maintaining Invisalign While Traveling
Traveling to new places is wild and exciting, a chance to break from life’s normality. Unfortunately, one aspect you can’t pause or leave behind on your travels is your Invisalign orthodontic treatment – doing so would set you back on your journey. Luckily, traveling with Invisalign is easier than other treatments, but it doesn’t come without challenges. Awareness of these is the first step towards ensuring your treatment remains effective, even on the go. Therefore, we have gathered the most common concerns for you here, likely some you have already thought of:
Adjusting to New Environments: One of the key hurdles is adapting to different living conditions and schedules. Whether dealing with jet lag or a packed itinerary, finding the time and space for your Invisalign routine can be tricky.
Access to Dental Hygiene Facilities: In some travel destinations, especially remote areas or places with different health standards, accessing suitable facilities for dental hygiene can be a concern. This is particularly crucial for Invisalign users, who need to maintain a high level of oral cleanliness.
Safe Water Sources: For travelers in areas where tap water isn’t safe to drink, even simple tasks like brushing teeth or rinsing aligners become complicated. Ensuring access to safe water is essential for Invisalign care.
Keeping Track of Aligners: Amidst the excitement of travel, it’s easy to misplace small items like Invisalign aligners. Losing an aligner can disrupt your treatment schedule and may require urgent replacement.
Recognizing these challenges is crucial, but fear not! With the right Invisalign travel tips, you can navigate these issues effectively. By preparing and planning, you can enjoy your travels without compromising your orthodontic treatment.
Invisalign Travel Tips to Make Your Journey Easy
While exploring new places is exciting, maintaining a consistent orthodontic routine can be difficult amidst the hustle and bustle. It may take a little extra planning, but incorporating these Invisalign travel tips into your itinerary will help ensure your orthodontic treatment continues smoothly, no matter where you go.
#1: Stick to a Routine
Consistency is critical when doing an Invisalign orthodontic treatment. You must wear your aligners the recommended 20-22 hours daily, even when traveling. We recommend setting reminders on your phone to ensure you don’t forget to wear them at the correct times.
#2: Pack Smart
Always carry your current aligners and the next set of aligners on you during transportation – they should always be in your carry-on bag in their designated case when not in use to avoid loss or damage. You don’t want to lose them if your bag takes an unexpected detour without you.
#3: Clean and Store
Maintaining the cleanliness of your aligners is crucial. Rinse them every time you remove them, and brush them gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. During transport, we recommend having a care kit on you. Don’t forget to give your mouth a cleaning, too, even if it is just a rinse – especially if you are eating sugary or staining foods.
For a more comprehensive guide, refer to our in-depth blog post on how to clean and care for your aligners.
#4: Prepare for Time Zone Changes & Long Flights
During long flights or when changing time zones, plan your meals and aligner removal times accordingly. If you need to sleep with your aligners in during a flight, ensure they are clean and that you’ve brushed your teeth beforehand.
#5: Be Cautious with Tap Water
In areas where tap water isn’t safe, use bottled water for brushing your teeth and rinsing your aligners. Even if tap water is safe, avoid using public restroom water. This prevents exposure to harmful bacteria that could affect your oral health. If you do not have access to bottled water, boil your water.
#6: Let Your Orthodontist Know
Before heading off, inform your orthodontist about your travel plans. They can provide specific orthodontic treatment advice tailored to your itinerary and might adjust your treatment plan if necessary.
Following these Invisalign travel tips allows you to manage your orthodontic treatment effectively while enjoying your travels. Remember, with some foresight and planning, you can ensure your journey is as smooth as your path to a perfect smile!
Create a Travel-Ready Invisalign Care Kit
When you travel, your bag will be full of all sorts of kits, from tech to entertainment to snacks. We suggest adding just one more small one – a well-thought-out Invisalign care kit. This kit will ensure you can maintain your routine without hassle, no matter where you are. Here’s what your travel-ready Invisalign kit should include:
- Compact Hygiene: Choose a small, travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash. This makes brushing your teeth after meals easier, which is crucial before reinserting your aligners.
- Invisalign Cleaning Crystals or Soap: Pack a small container of Invisalign cleaning crystals or a clear, scent-free soap for daily cleaning of your aligners.
- Extra Aligners: If your orthodontic treatment schedule includes switching to a new set of aligners during your trip, bring them along.
- Aligner Case: Always have your aligner case handy to safely store your aligners when you’re not wearing them. This helps prevent loss or damage.
- Bottled Water: If you’re traveling to a place with questionable water quality, bring bottled water for brushing your teeth and cleaning your aligners.
- Emergency Contact Information: Have your orthodontist’s contact information in case you encounter any issues with your Invisalign treatment while away.
This care kit, combined with our Invisalign travel tips, will help you manage your Invisalign treatment effectively, even when you’re miles away from home. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring the continuity and success of your Invisalign journey.
Embark on Your Adventure with Confidence
At Creekside Dental, we understand the unique challenges of traveling while on Invisalign treatment. Our team of experienced Kennewick dentists is always ready to provide you with personalized advice and support tailored to your lifestyle and travel needs. Whether you’re planning a vacation, a business trip, or studying abroad, we’re here to ensure your orthodontic treatment journey is smooth and stress-free.
Ready to travel but worried about your Invisalign treatment? Contact Creekside Dental today for expert advice and personalized care plans. Let us help you keep your orthodontic treatment on track while you explore the world. Schedule your appointment now and embark on your travels with a smile!