You can’t always plan when you’ll need to have a tooth extracted. In many cases, this treatment is recommended as a solution to a painful or cracked tooth, making it impossible to plan the rest of your life around it. So, if you’re in the midst of having a tooth unexpectedly extracted and just remembered that you need to catch a flight in a few days for an upcoming vacation or work trip, remember that there’s no need to panic just yet! Read on to learn how flying following your procedure can impact your health and how long you’ll need to wait until it’s safe to travel on an airplane again.
The Dangers of Flying After a Tooth Extraction
The following 24 to 48 hours after you have a tooth extracted should be dedicated to resting, being sure that you don’t overexert yourself packing or preparing for your trip and allowing your mouth to heal. This is the case whether you receive a more invasive surgical tooth extraction or simply have your tooth gently removed from your mouth without any type of surgical intervention.
It’s recommended to wait at least 48 hours following your procedure before flying because the changes of altitude and pressure can create intense discomfort and even put you at risk of developing dry socket. When the blood clot that’s in your socket becomes dislodged due to pressure from the flight, it could compromise your healing process by exposing the bone beneath the clot, putting you at risk for not only dry socket, but also infection.
Tips for a Safe Recovery & Comfortable Flight
The blood clot protecting your vulnerable soft and hard tissues below the socket is crucial for your recovery. Without it, you’ll likely experience dry socket, intense pain, and other problems along your healing journey. Here are some additional travel tips for a successful and problem-free recovery besides waiting for 48 hours to fly:
- Keep clean gauze on you during your flight in case your extraction site begins to bleed.
- Be sure to eat soft foods that don’t get stuck in your socket.
- Rest on your flight as much as possible.
- Bring a cold compress to help relieve any discomfort or swelling.
- Call your dentist if you notice any out-of-the-ordinary symptoms or discomfort.
- Bring a dentist-approved, over-the-counter pain medication with you on the flight.
- Pack appropriate dental hygiene products with you to regularly clean your mouth and teeth.
So long as you take proper care of your extraction site and follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions closely, you’ll be able to enjoy your trip, all while protecting your smile from unexpected complications.
About the Practice
At HJ Dental, our team is comprised of three experienced dentists and a board-certified anesthesiologist. We understand that dental emergencies can happen at the worst and most unexpected moments, which is why we provide same-day and weekend urgent appointments, and to help with discomfort, dental sedation. To schedule an appointment or for any questions, visit our website or call 214-521-3148.