Do you have an upcoming trip? Whether you are taking off to visit family or enjoy a relaxing vacation “away from it all,” you are no doubt excited about the days ahead. But if you are an Invisalign patient, you may have to put a bit of extra thought and planning into how you will stay on track with your treatment while you are traveling. This blog post contains helpful tips.
Bring All the Aligners You Will Need
Before you leave for your trip, pack both your current set of aligners and at least one additional set if you are due for a change while you are away. Some people even bring a set of previous aligners in case something happens to a current one. Carry your aligners in their protective case to keep them clean and safe from damage. It is a good idea to store your spare aligners in your personal bag, just so you still have them if you misplace your main carry-on.
Plan Your Meals and Snacks
Try to set specific meal and snack times so you do not have to take your aligners out more often than necessary. And try to choose nutritious, filling foods that will sustain you for several hours at a time. Focus on snacks and meals that are not sticky or overly hard, which could make cleaning your teeth more challenging and possibly compromise your aligners.
Making smart eating and drinking decisions during your vacation might mean that you have to forgo drinks by the pool or frequent trips to the buffet, but your oral health will thank you for your diligence!
Do Not Forget Your Oral Hygiene Supplies
Pack a travel-sized toothbrush, dental floss, aligner cleaning crystals, and a small bottle of mouthwash. These essentials will help you keep your teeth and aligners clean wherever your journey takes you.
Find Out if the Tap Water Is Safe
Research whether the local tap water at your destination is safe to drink and use for cleaning. If you are unsure, choose bottled or filtered water for rinsing your aligners and brushing your teeth. This will help you avoid potential stomach issues and keep your aligners free from harmful bacteria.
Prepare for an Emergency
Accidents can happen, so it is helpful to know what to do if your aligners are lost or damaged while traveling. Keep your orthodontist’s and dentist’s contact information handy. It would even be smart to undergo a basic oral health checkup before your trip. Having a plan gives you peace of mind and keeps your treatment moving forward, even if you encounter the unexpected.
With a little preparation, you can enjoy your travels without worrying about how they will affect your Invisalign treatment.
Meet the Practice
At Family Dental Practice of Bloomfield, our team is proud to offer a comprehensive range of services for our community, including Invisalign clear aligners. If you have questions about this treatment and how it might affect your routine, we would be happy to speak with you. Contact our friendly staff at 860-263-0441.