Are you off on your holidays soon and have an Invisalign? Smiles and More Dentistry are here to help. Whether you’re heading abroad or taking a staycation in the UK, like exploring the attractions near Warrington, this guide will ensure you stay on top of your treatment during your travels.
Pack a Dedicated Invisalign Travel Kit
A well-stocked Invisalign travel kit is essential for convenience and peace of mind. Include the following items in your kit:
- A sturdy aligner case: Keep your aligners safe when you remove them to eat or drink.
- Travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste: You’ll need these handy for cleaning your teeth and aligners on the go.
- Floss or interdental brushes: Oral hygiene doesn’t take a holiday–interdental cleaning is crucial for keeping debris out from between your teeth and aligners.
- Cleaning crystals or alternative solutions: These keep your aligners fresh and odour-free, crucial if you’re away for several days.
- Pain relief (if needed): If your aligners feel slightly tight after transitioning to a new set, ibuprofen or paracetamol can help ease discomfort.
Storing all these items in one bag makes it easier to maintain your routine and ensures you can freshen up wherever your holiday takes you.
Maintain Your Schedule While Away
One of the key benefits of Invisalign is its flexibility; however, adhering to your wearing schedule remains vital, especially during travel. This means wearing your aligners for 20–22 hours per day and only removing them to eat, drink, or clean your teeth.
Set reminders on your phone if your itinerary is packed or you’re prone to distraction. Small reminders can prompt you to reinsert your aligners after meals or snacks.
Rinse and Clean on the Go
When you’re out and about, cleaning your aligners might not always be straightforward. At the very least, rinse your aligners with lukewarm water before putting them back in after meals. This will remove plaque and food particles until you can give them a proper deep clean.
For longer outings, carry a foldable travel toothbrush and toothpaste in your travel kit. If water is unavailable, aligner-friendly cleaning towelettes may be the next-best option.
Be Prepared for the Unexpected
Holidays can come with pleasant surprises, but being unprepared for the unexpected is less enjoyable. Always carry your previous set of aligners as backup during your travels. If you lose or damage your current set, the previous aligners will help keep your teeth in position until you can contact us for advice.
Additionally, be sure to contact your dentist ahead of travel if you anticipate needing a new set of aligners while you are away. For our Invisalign patients in Warrington, we are always happy to help with advanced planning to keep your treatment on track.
Eat and Drink Wisely
Travel often leads to indulgent meals and occasional treats. While you can eat freely once you’ve removed your aligners, it’s essential to clean your teeth thoroughly before reinserting them to avoid residue from food or sugary drinks causing decay.
Take care with hot drinks like tea and coffee, especially if you’re on the move and don’t have your Invisalign case ready. Hot drinks can warp Invisalign aligners, so avoid sipping with them still in.
Stick to Your Oral Care Routine
Consistency is key to success with Invisalign, and that includes maintaining your oral hygiene routine. While you might be tempted to skip brushing or flossing due to a packed schedule, maintaining good habits will prevent issues like plaque build-up or bad breath.
Even if activities run late, take five minutes to clean your teeth and aligners before bed. It ensures your treatment stays on track and helps avoid unwanted visits to the dentist after your holiday.
Relax and Enjoy Your Travels
Finally, don’t stress too much! Invisalign is designed for people with busy lives, and with a little preparation, you can easily manage treatment while enjoying your well-deserved holiday. The aligners are discreet and portable, making them a convenient choice for travel. If you’re heading to Warrington or abroad, rest assured, you can take your Invisalign routine with you.
If you have questions or need advice before your next trip, reach out to us at Smiles and More Dentistry. Call us on 0151 420 7511 or email reception@samdentistry.co.uk. Safe travels and happy smiling!
