In this article
Clear aligners do not have to stop you travelling. They do need a little planning, because the aligners only work if you keep wearing them and moving through your trays on schedule.
Here is what to sort out before you leave and what to do while you are away.
Before You Go
For a short holiday, you mostly need to pack well. For a trip of several weeks or longer, tell your dental team before you leave. They can tell you where you are in your tray schedule, how your remote check-ins will work while you are away, and whether to take your ScanBox with you.
Do not plan on pausing treatment or skipping ahead on trays to fit a trip. Both can leave your teeth behind where the plan expects them to be. Our guide to skipping aligner trays explains why.
What to Pack
Your aligner case, every time. Aligners wrapped in a napkin or tissue are the ones that get thrown out. Keep the case in your bag, not in a pocket you might forget.
Your current tray and the next one or two. Ask your team how many sets to bring, and keep the previous set as a backup in case you lose or break one.
A travel toothbrush and toothpaste. You need to brush before putting aligners back in after eating, wherever you are.
A water bottle. Water is the only thing you should drink with aligners in.
Keep all of it in your carry-on rather than checked luggage, so it stays with you.
Flights, Meals and Daily Routine
Aligners are made to be worn for most of the day, so the aim is to keep your usual routine in a different place. Take them out to eat and drink anything other than water, store them in the case, and brush before you put them back. Our guide on what you can eat and drink with clear aligners is worth a quick read before a trip with lots of restaurant meals.
On a long flight, you can keep your aligners in while you sleep or sit, taking them out only to eat. A time zone change does not change your tray schedule, so keep changing trays on the same cycle as usual.
If Something Goes Wrong Abroad
If you lose or break an aligner while away, put your backup set in and contact the Jawology team as soon as you can. Getting replacement trays to you overseas can take time, so the earlier you tell them, the better. Our article on what happens if you lose or break an aligner covers the steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take clear aligners in my carry-on bag?
Yes, and that is the best place for them. Keeping your case in carry-on means it stays with you if checked luggage is delayed.
Do I need to take my aligners out at airport security?
They are plastic, so you usually do not need to remove them. Keep your case handy in case you are asked.
How many sets of aligners should I bring?
Your current set, the next one or two, and your previous set as a backup is a sensible starting point. Check with your dental team for your specific plan.
What if I'm travelling for several months?
Talk to your dental team well before you leave. They can advise on whether your remote check-ins can continue and what to arrange so that your treatment stays on track.
Find Out If You're a Good Candidate
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