Keeping Up With Invisalign While Travelling
Embarking on your Invisalign journey is an exciting step toward achieving the smile you’ve always dreamed of. But what happens when wanderlust calls or business trips beckon? As your trusted dental team at Gentle Family Dentistry, we understand life doesn’t pause for orthodontic treatment.
That’s why our Bakersfield Invisalign dentist, Dr. Jonathan Garger, has compiled this comprehensive guide to help you maintain your Invisalign progress while traveling, ensuring your adventure doesn’t interfere with your path to a perfect smile. Learn more by reading the guide below or by calling our Kern County dental practice at 661-664-9900.
Planning Ahead: Pre-Travel Preparation
Schedule a Check-up
Before any extended travel, it’s wise to schedule a dental checkup with our office. During this visit, Dr. Garger can:
- Assess your progress
- Provide additional aligners if needed
- Address any concerns you might have
- Make adjustments to your treatment plan if necessary
Pack Your Invisalign Essentials
Create a dedicated travel kit for your Invisalign supplies. Essential items include:
- All necessary aligner sets for your trip (plus the previous set as backup)
- Your Invisalign case (consider packing a spare)
- Travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste
- Dental floss or interdental brushes
- Small bottle of alcohol-free mouthwash
- Orthodontic wax (in case of any irritation)
- Aligner removal tool if you use one
- Cleaning crystals or tablets
- Travel-sized hand sanitizer
Maintaining Your Wear Schedule While Traveling
Time Zone Changes
When crossing time zones, maintaining your 20-22 hour daily wear time remains crucial. Don’t let jet lag disrupt your routine. Set reminders on your phone that adjust to your new time zone, helping you stay on track with wear times and aligner changes.
Dining Out and Social Events
Traveling often involves dining out and social gatherings. Here are some tips to manage your Invisalign treatment during these occasions:
Plan Ahead
- Research restaurants in advance
- Consider scheduling meals closer together to maximize aligner wear time
- Keep your Invisalign case and cleaning supplies handy
Quick Cleanup Solutions
- If you can’t brush immediately after eating, at minimum rinse your mouth and aligners with water.
- Keep disposable tooth wipes or mouth rinse handy for times when full brushing isn’t possible.
- Consider carrying a collapsible travel cup for easier rinsing in public restrooms.
Airport and Flight Tips
Air travel presents unique challenges for Invisalign wearers. Here’s how to navigate them:
- Pack Smart
- Keep your current aligners and essential cleaning supplies in your carry-on
- Store backup aligners in both carry-on and checked luggage
- Pack travel-sized dental hygiene products that comply with TSA regulations
- In-Flight Care
- Stay hydrated, but remember to remove aligners before drinking anything besides water
- Keep your case and cleaning supplies easily accessible
- Consider setting a reminder to put your aligners back in after in-flight meals
Maintaining Hygiene on the Road
Clean Water Considerations
- When traveling to destinations where tap water safety is uncertain:
- Use bottled water for cleaning your aligners and dental hygiene
- Pack alcohol-free mouthwash tablets that can be mixed with bottled water
- Consider bringing portable water purification tools
Alternative Cleaning Methods
Sometimes traditional cleaning methods aren’t practical while traveling. Here are some alternatives:
- Quick Cleaning Solutions
- Denture cleaning tablets (cut in half for Invisalign trays)
- Portable UV sanitizers designed for clear aligners
- Antimicrobial mouth rinse for temporary cleaning
- Emergency Solutions
- Clear, antibacterial soap and bottled water
- Retainer cleaning wipes
- Hydrogen peroxide solution (properly diluted)
Managing Common Travel Challenges
Lost or Damaged Aligners
If you lose or damage an aligner while traveling:
- Don’t panic! This is why we recommend bringing backup sets
- If you have your next set, consider moving forward (consult with our office first if possible)
- If you have your previous set, use that until you can get a replacement
- Contact Gentle Family Dentistry for guidance – we’re here to help, even when you’re away
Language Barriers
When traveling internationally:
- Learn basic dental-related phrases in the local language
- Keep a card with your Invisalign treatment details in multiple languages
- Save our office contact information for emergencies
- Research English-speaking dental offices at your destination, just in case
Special Considerations for Different Types of Travel
Beach Vacations
- Keep aligners out of direct sunlight to prevent warping
- Always use your case – don’t wrap aligners in napkins or tissue
- Rinse aligners and mouth after swimming in pools or ocean
- Apply lip balm with SPF to prevent sunburned lips
Camping or Adventure Travel
- Pack multiple cleaning options that don’t require electricity
- Consider bringing a small mirror for aligner insertion/removal
- Keep aligners away from heat sources
- Store cleaning supplies in waterproof containers
Business Travel
- Schedule meetings and presentations around your wear schedule when possible
- Keep discrete cleaning supplies in your briefcase or laptop bag
- Consider informing close colleagues about your treatment to avoid awkward situations
- Plan ahead for business dinners and networking events
Long-Term Travel Tips
For extended trips or studying abroad:
- Discuss your travel plans with Dr. Garger well in advance
- Consider having multiple sets of aligners shipped to your destination
- Research dental professionals at your destination for emergencies
- Keep digital copies of your treatment plan and prescription
Ready to Travel? Your Invisalign Journey Continues!
At Gentle Family Dentistry, we believe choosing Invisalign shouldn’t limit your ability to travel and explore. With proper planning and these tips in mind, you can maintain your treatment progress while enjoying your adventures. Remember, our Bakersfield office is just a phone call away if you need guidance or support during your travels.
Don’t let travel anxiety impact your Invisalign journey. If you have any questions about traveling with Invisalign or are considering starting your Invisalign journey, contact Gentle Family Dentistry in Bakersfield, CA by dialing 661-664-9900. Dr. Garger and our experienced team are here to support you every step of the way, whether you’re at home or abroad.
*Remember: Your smile journey doesn’t take a vacation, but with proper planning and care, you can ensure your treatment stays on track no matter where your adventures take you!*