What happens if I lose one of my aligners while traveling?

Losing an orthodontic aligner while you’re on the road is stressful. However, it’s also quite common and usually manageable. If you’re undergoing Invisalign® treatment, the key is to avoid letting your teeth shift too far out of position. These Invisalign emergency travel tips can help you stay on track until you can reach your dentist and secure a replacement aligner.

What to Do Right Away

If you lose an aligner while traveling, don’t panic. The best course of action depends on where you are in your aligner sequence:

  • If you still have your previous aligner set, use that to hold your teeth in place. 
  • If you’re near the end of your current set, your dentist may advise moving to the next set early.

Regardless, it’s vital to avoid going without any aligner for an extended period.

When to Call Your Dentist

You should contact your dental office as soon as possible after discovering your aligner is gone. Based on your specific case and where you are in your treatment, they can recommend appropriate next steps until a replacement tray is ordered or it’s time to move on to your next set of aligners. 

We recommend that all our Invisalign patients pack both their current and previous aligners when traveling. Keeping your trays in a protective case can also reduce the risk of loss.

Effective Invisalign Support in Huntsville, AL

If you’re in Huntsville and want to learn more about travel planning during clear aligner orthodontic treatment, contact Dr. Doug Booth and our friendly and supportive team to schedule a consultation.