Air travel can already be chaotic, with long lines at security, dry cabin air, and missed meals. Now, you have to add clear aligners to that chaos as well. And suddenly you’re wondering: Do you keep them in? Take them out? What if you lose them in flight? Flying with aligners isn’t complicated. With a bit of planning, you can travel successfully without unnecessary costs or stress. Sometimes a small mistake, like wrapping your trays in a napkin or skipping cleaning during your trip, can lead to costly problems. This guide will help you understand how to pack, what to avoid, and how to keep your alignment on track when flying so that you are comfortable on your trip.
Flying with aligners is completely safe. Cabin pressure changes don’t affect them. Airport scanners won’t damage them. And no, your aligners won’t suddenly feel tighter at 30,000 feet.
What does change is your routine.
Flights disrupt eating schedules, brushing habits, and hydration. Dry air can increase mouth dryness, making aligners feel slightly uncomfortable if you’re not drinking enough water. The key is preparation, not panic.
If you plan, aligners travel just as easily as you do.
This is where most people go wrong. Aligners don’t need a suitcase of supplies, but they do need the basics.
Always pack:
Never put aligners loose in a bag or pocket ever. Most lost aligners happen during travel, usually wrapped in tissues and thrown away by accident.
Think of your aligner case as your passport. If you forget it, things get messy fast.
Let’s talk about common mistakes people make when traveling with aligners.
Avoid:
Flying with aligners requires consistency. Following a few simple aligner tips can save you from a lot of stress.
Yes. Absolutely.
Aligners don’t set off metal detectors. You don’t need to remove them for TSA or airport security checks. No explanation required, no awkward moments.
In fact, keeping them in during security is recommended. The fewer times you remove your aligners while traveling, the lower the risk of losing them.
This is one of the easiest parts of flying with aligners, thankfully.
Short answer: only if you’re eating or drinking something other than water.
Long-haul flights often involve meals, snacks, and coffee. Each time you eat, remove your aligners, rinse your mouth, and store them properly in your aligner case for travelling. Brush as soon as you can.
If you’re sleeping on the plane, keep your aligners in. Flying isn’t a break from treatment. It’s just treatment with better views.
If you lose your aligners while traveling, remain calm but act quickly, contacting your orthodontist immediately for guidance on the next steps. Your orthodontist will advise whether to wear your previous aligner to maintain the teeth's position or move to the next one. If you cannot reach your provider promptly, wear the old aligner if tight or the new one if nearly finished.
Always prioritize contacting your orthodontist for a replacement or personalized advice to ensure your teeth do not shift unexpectedly.
Flying with aligners doesn’t need to be stressful. With a little planning and the right habits, your smile progress stays intact whether you’re flying for work, vacation, or life in general.
Pack smart, stay hydrated, and respect wear time. And never underestimate the importance of a proper aligner case for travelling.
Travel changes your location, not your commitment.
Q: Where do I keep my aligners on my flight? A: Always store them in a proper aligner case. Never place them in napkins, pockets, or seat trays.
Q: Can you wear aligners through airport security? A: Yes. Aligners are safe to wear through all airport security checks.
Q: How to travel with aligners safely? A: Pack cleaning essentials, keep a case with you, stay hydrated, and maintain your wear schedule.
Q: Should you remove aligners during a flight? A: Only when eating or drinking anything besides water.
Q: What happens if you lose aligners while traveling? A: Wear your previous set and contact your provider as soon as possible.
