Traveling with Braces or Aligners: What to Pack & How to Stay on Track
Vacation season is here, and whether you’re heading to the beach, mountains, or abroad, it’s important to keep your orthodontic treatment on track. At Beecroft Orthodontics, we want our patients to enjoy their time away without worrying about braces or aligners. Here’s your guide to traveling confidently—with a smile!
What to Pack in Your Braces or Aligner Travel Kit
Before you head out, pack a small orthodontic travel kit to make life easier on the go. Here’s what to include:
If You Have Braces:
Orthodontic wax (for poking wires or irritation)
Travel-size toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
Floss, floss threaders, or Platypus Orthodontic Flossers
Interdental brushes or a proxy brush
A small mirror
Pain relief (Tylenol or ibuprofen in case of soreness)
Mouth rinse or travel-size mouthwash
Compact orthodontic-friendly snacks (avoid hard, sticky foods)
If You Have Invisalign or Clear Aligners:
Your Invisalign case
Extra aligner trays (if switching mid-trip)
Travel toothbrush and toothpaste
Floss
Bottled water (to rinse aligners if brushing isn’t possible)
Small towel or cloth to place your aligners on if needed
💡 Tip: Keep your kit in your carry-on or handbag so you’re never caught without it—especially during long flights or road trips.
How to Keep Your Treatment on Track While on Vacation
Even though you’re on vacation, your teeth aren’t! Here’s how to make sure your treatment stays on schedule:
1. Stick to Your Routine
Continue brushing and flossing as usual, even when your days get busy. Clean your aligners or brackets after meals and snacks.
2. Wear Your Aligners
Invisalign patients should wear their trays for 20–22 hours per day, even on vacation. Take them out only to eat or drink anything other than water.
3. Avoid Risky Foods
Stay away from crunchy chips, sticky candies, or anything that could damage brackets. For aligners, make sure to remove them before eating—and brush before putting them back in.
4. Don’t Skip Appointments
If your vacation overlaps with a scheduled visit, be sure to reschedule in advance. For long trips, ask if your orthodontist can provide your next aligner tray set early.
TSA Tips for Flying with Orthodontic Supplies
Worried about going through airport security? Don’t be—TSA allows all orthodontic items in your carry-on bag. Here’s what you need to know:
Clear aligners, retainers, and cases are perfectly fine to travel with in hand luggage.
Orthodontic wax, floss, toothbrushes, and proxy brushes won’t cause any issues at security.
Gels, rinses, or mouthwashes must follow the 3.4 oz liquid rule and fit in your quart-size liquid bag.
Aligner chewies, elastics, and other small tools can be packed with your toiletries or kept in your orthodontic kit.
Keep everything in a clear pouch or organizer for easy access at TSA checkpoints.
💡 Pro Tip: If you're bringing multiple sets of Invisalign trays, keep them labeled and in their original packaging if possible.
Smile Confidently—Anywhere You Go
Whether you’re hopping on a plane, hitting the road, or soaking up the sun, your braces or aligners don’t have to get in the way of your fun. With the right prep and a little consistency, you’ll keep your treatment on track—no matter where the summer takes you.
Have questions or need extra supplies before your trip? Contact us at Beecroft Orthodontics or stop by your local office—we're happy to help get you vacation-ready!
11113 Leavells Rd Fredericksburg, VA 22407
540-898-2200
office@beecroftortho.com