Should I Still Go on My Flight After a Tooth Extraction?

You’ve been looking forward to your vacation for months. And then it happens – there’s a shooting pain in your tooth. You see your emergency dentist, and they extract the troublesome tooth successfully. But now you have a new problem: your flight boards in the next 24 – 48 hours, and your dentist just informed you about your two-week recovery time.

Cabin pressure and high altitudes tend to aggravate sinuses and headaches, so you’re right to wonder what will happen to your newly extracted tooth once you get up in the air. There are ways to manage what will probably be an uncomfortable ride, but keep reading to find out why it might be better to cancel or delay your plans.

Why It’s Dangerous to Fly After an Extraction

The main risk in flying after an extraction is developing dry socket. In the case of a tooth extraction, you want your blood to clot. When the blood clot at your extraction site dislodges, it’s called a dry socket. This means the sensitive, healing tissues are exposed, which releases the kind of pain that Ibuprofen and Tylenol can’t fully alleviate.

Once you take off the runway, the sudden change in altitude and cabin pressure could dislodge your blood clot. The dry airplane air will only add to this risk and further increase your odds of developing complications.

I Have to Fly – What Can I Do About the Pain?

If you absolutely must fly out of town in the next two days, make sure you’re prepared and able to make yourself as comfortable as possible.

• Bring pain relievers. Fill and pick up any prescribed pain medication. In the absence of prescriptions, take over-the-counter pain relievers. Something will be better than nothing.
• Grab plenty of gauze. You’ll need to be able to change your bandage and address any increased bleeding.
• Get room temperature water from an airport drinking fountain or bathroom. Hot or cold drinks are likely to be too uncomfortable to enjoy.
• Pack a cold compress. This will support your pain relievers and can reduce your discomfort and swelling.
• Save your emergency dentist’s contact information. They might not be able to reach you in the air, but they can tell you what to do if the pain becomes severe.
• Stick to soft foods. Refuse the on-flight crunchy munchies! Save yourself from a world of hurt and buy yogurt or soup from airport food vendors.
• Pack your luggage strategically. Secure your medical essentials in your carry-on. They’re not going to be helpful if they’re out of reach!
• Bring your comfort items. Keeping your stress levels low and being as cozy as possible will help you rest and heal during your flight. Headphones, pillows, and blankets are going to be just as important as your medical equipment!

Your post-extraction flight is probably not going to be your favorite. However, checking off these items might prevent it from being the worst.

Whatever you decide to do, listen to your dentist’s care instructions. Following them is the best way to ensure a full recovery. If you can, tell them about your situation and ask for more recommendations on how to fly after your extraction. They are going to be your best resource for tips and tricks.

About our Practice

Our dental team at Dental Excellence Melbourne is a top-notch trio with a breadth of experience. They’re pros at managing symptoms, and will make sure patients are well-informed about their after-care needs. If you have questions or concerns about your recent tooth extraction, call our office at 321-255-0199 or visit our website.