Traveling is exciting, but keeping up with your orthodontic routine while you’re away from home can take a little planning. Fortunately, SureSmile clear aligners are designed to fit into busy lifestyles. Because the trays are removable, you can still enjoy meals, explore new destinations, and maintain your usual oral hygiene routine while working toward a straighter smile.
Whether you’re taking a weekend road trip or heading overseas for several weeks, a few simple strategies can help you stay on track.
Pack a SureSmile Travel Kit
Before leaving home, put together a small dental kit with everything you need to care for your teeth and aligners. Include a toothbrush, floss, your aligner case, and anything else you normally use as part of your oral hygiene routine.
It’s also a good idea to bring your upcoming aligners with you if your treatment schedule requires you to switch trays while traveling. Keep them somewhere secure and easy to access rather than buried at the bottom of your suitcase.
And don’t forget your current aligners! When you’re traveling, your case gives you a safe place to store them whenever you need to take them out.
Keep Your Aligners in as Directed
A vacation can make routines feel a little more flexible, but your orthodontic treatment still needs consistency. SureSmile aligners are generally worn for about 20 to 22 hours per day, according to the treatment information provided by the practice.
Travel days can make that goal trickier. Between airport meals, long drives, sightseeing, and unexpected stops for snacks, it’s easy to lose track of how long your aligners have been out. Try setting a reminder on your phone if you tend to get distracted.
The key is to follow the wear schedule provided specifically for your treatment. If you’re unsure how to handle an unusual travel situation, ask your dental team before your trip.
Remove Aligners Before Eating or Drinking
One of the conveniences of SureSmile is that the aligners are removable, so you don’t have to give up your favorite vacation foods. However, you should remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything besides water.
If you’re spending the day sightseeing, consider planning meals rather than constantly grazing. After eating, brush your teeth when possible before putting your aligners back in. When brushing isn’t immediately practical, rinse your mouth and aligners with clean water until you can properly clean your teeth.
Protect Your Aligners on the Go
Aligners are easy to misplace when you’re constantly moving from one location to another. Avoid wrapping them in a napkin while eating, since they can accidentally end up in the trash. Instead, put them in their case every time you remove them.
If an aligner becomes damaged or you lose one while traveling, contact your dental team for instructions. Depending on the situation, you may be advised to use a previous or subsequent set of aligners while a replacement is arranged.
Plan Ahead Before You Leave
If you have a longer trip coming up, consider checking in with your dentist beforehand. This can give you an opportunity to make sure you have the aligners and supplies you’ll need and ask questions about managing your treatment while away.
With a little preparation, your SureSmile routine doesn’t have to keep you grounded.
About the Practice
Oris Dental Studio provides modern dental care in Austin, TX, including preventive, cosmetic, restorative, emergency, and orthodontic services such as SureSmile clear aligners. Dr. Evan Pedersen earned his DMD from Harvard School of Dental Medicine and has practiced in private dentistry since 2013.
Call us at (512) 777-0866 or schedule your appointment online