Vacation-Ready with Invisalign: How to Stick to Your Treatment Plan While Exploring

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By Gallagher Family Dentistry of Metairie

Planning and going on vacation is always interesting. After all, who doesn’t like to go and visit new places? 

But if you are on your Invisalign journey, you may wonder how to stay on track with your aligners. 

Invisalign offers flexibility and convenience, making it the perfect choice for traveling. Are you thinking how to do it?

Worry not. In this blog, you will get a detailed account of the strategies on how to maintain your Invisalign while you are traveling and exploring.

Plan Ahead for Smooth Travel

Planning ahead will ensure you do not miss anything at the last moment. Talk with your dentist about your vacation and understand what you need to carry to stay on track.

  • Pack an extra set of aligners with you. If you lose your current one or it gets damaged, you will have another to continue your journey without any worry.
  • Remember to use a hard case to store your aligners safely. Do not leave your aligners in an open space or above a table or something. This can make them more prone to bacteria and germs. 
  • If you are flying to your destination, keep your Invisalign supplies in your carry-on bag. This way, you will get easy access to them, and you will not need to worry about losing them.

Stay Hydrated and Avoid Staining Foods

Vacations mean trying new cuisines and indulging in local delicacies. While doing so, do not forget to drink water. 

  • Staying hydrated keeps your mouth fresh and also helps prevent aligners from developing bad odor.
  • When you eat food or drink any beverage like tea or coffee, always remove your clear aligners Metairie LA. This practice will help in protecting your aligners from stains.
  • Foods with high sugar can lead to plaque buildup or discoloration of your aligners. So, stay away from such food items.

Prioritize Oral Hygiene

It is very common to be on irregular schedules while you are on vacation. But this is not good for your Invisalign journey.

  • Always brush after eating a meal. This way, you can ensure no food particles get stuck in your aligners.
  • You can also use an interdental brush to clean areas that are hard to reach with a normal brush.
  • Regular flossing removes debris and plaque from your mouth. This ensures your aligners remain clean throughout your journey.
     

Maintain a Consistent Routine

If you want your Invisalign treatment to be successful, you will have to be consistent in your care. 

  • No matter where you are, wear your aligners for 20-22 hours daily. This is necessary for your aligners to do their job.
  • You need to reinsert your aligners after having meals or snacks. If you tend to forget, use alarms on your phone.
  • Prioritize your aligners routine, and you will achieve the desired outcome while enjoying a vacation.

Know How to Handle Unexpected Issues

Even with your best preparation, anything can happen in your journey. The future is not in your hands. So, be ready with a backup plan in case of any emergency.  

  • Talk with your orthodontist and keep their contact information close to you while traveling. If anything happens, you will need to consult them as soon as possible.
  • If you lose your aligners, wear the extra ones.
  • Keep your treatment plan written or printed on paper and carry it with you everywhere. This will help you to stay on track.

Vacations are meant for relaxation and exploring new things, and Invisalign does not have to slow you down. Plan ahead, maintain a routine, and prioritize your oral care, and you are good to go with your aligners.  

Contact us today for professional guidance.

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