Invisalign Can Be Incredibly Convenient; Here’s How to Travel during Treatment

Invisalign has allowed many patients to straighten out their misaligned teeth using removable and virtually invisible clear aligners that require no dietary restrictions. While this orthodontic method can be a convenient and more comfortable alternative to traditional braces, the patient will still need to keep up with a detailed set of treatment instructions to keep their realignment on track. Here’s a brief overview of how you can comply with your Invisalign treatment while traveling.

How Does Invisalign Work?

The Invisalign process begins with a dentist using a specialized device to scan the patient’s teeth and create a detailed three-dimensional map of their mouth. This data will be used to craft a sequence of personalized clear aligners designed to fit snugly over the patient’s teeth and exert the constant pressure needed to shift them into healthier positions. The patient will need to wear their aligners for at least twenty hours daily and switch to a new set every two weeks or so. Each set will pick the treatment up where the last left off, and the process usually takes six to sixteen months to complete.

How Can I Comply with My Invisalign Treatment While Traveling?

Neglecting to wear your aligners sufficiently each day will lead to frustrating treatment delays that can be costly, and forgoing proper dental hygiene during treatment will set you up for oral infections and unsightly dental stains. To prevent these issues, keep the following tips in mind while traveling:

• Pack an Invisalign travel kit that includes essential materials such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, travel-sized mouthwash, over-the-counter pain medication, and any new aligners you may need to switch to during your trip.
• Bring a small, safe container that is easy to clean so you can properly store your aligners when not wearing them. Neglecting to store your appliances in a safe place during meals can make it easy for them to be damaged or lost.
• Remember to remove your aligners when eating or drinking anything but water and to thoroughly clean your teeth and appliances before wearing them again.
• Look up and note the phone number and address of an emergency orthodontist near your destination in case a crisis arises.

Don’t let your Invisalign treatment drift off track while you are away on vacation or business. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best way to make sure your realignment progresses as intended.

About the Author

Dr. Neelima Ravi earned her dental degree at the Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine and has earned her Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry. She has also completed extensive postgraduate coursework through Spear Education to keep her skills up to date. Her office in Hampton offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as Invisalign. To learn more about keeping your Invisalign treatment on track, contact her office online or dial (603) 926-1551.