What do you need to know about flying after a tooth extraction?
If you’re planning on flying after having simple extractions or your wisdom teeth pulled, it’s important to be aware of what to expect before you get on an airplane.
The best-case scenario is that the entire trip will go off without a hitch, but there are some things you can do to prevent any last-minute surprises when flying after tooth removal. Here’s everything you need to know about flying after a dental extraction and planning your big trip.
Can I Fly After a Dental Extraction?
“Should I be flying after dental extraction?”
It’s safe to fly on an airplane after most dental work, but it may not be the best idea if you’ve just had a tooth pulled. You’ll need to wait at least 24-48 hours at a minimum before your flight and consult with your doctor first.
Some people may need to wait at least a few days before flying, depending on the type of tooth removal and the number of teeth being extracted.
There are many risks associated with flying right after a dental extraction, such as the pressure in the airplane and how it will impact healing and blood clots.
Reasons to be Concerned About Flying After a Tooth Removal
One of the most important things to be aware of when flying after a tooth extraction is that it could lead to an increased risk of developing a dry socket.
Dry sockets occur when the blood clot inside of your extraction site becomes dislodged, exposing the underlying bone tissues.
Unfortunately, dry sockets are also extremely painful. Flying within the first 1 or 2 days of a dental extraction could create unnecessary pressure on the area, leading to the clot being dislodged.
Not only are dry sockets very uncomfortable, but they also take a much longer time to heal.
When Is It Safe To Fly Again After Having a Tooth Pulled?
It’s usually safe to fly at least 48 hours after having a tooth pulled.
However, the post-op instructions from your dentist and oral surgeon should be followed to make sure you are as healthy as possible before flying.
It’s always a good idea to check with your doctor first if you have any questions or concerns before traveling after a tooth extraction.
Major oral surgeries that involve multiple dental extractions or wisdom tooth removal may require a little extra time to rest before making a major trip.
But in the majority of extraction cases, dentists will clear their patients for airline travel after 48 hours.
All of that being said, it’s fairly common for surgical extractions, such as wisdom tooth removal, to have discomfort levels peak around day three and then subside again.
If you are flying on the third day after a wisdom teeth extraction, know that you will likely be experiencing some (manageable) pain on the date of your trip.
How to Prepare For a Flight After Oral Surgery
In some cases, a person may need to fly right after oral surgery, especially if they’ve traveled away from home for their treatment.
Flying after tooth removal is a bit different than flying after any other type of dental procedure, and there are some things you need to know before you take off.
The first thing to consider is whether or not you will be sedated when your tooth is pulled. If so, keep in mind that sedative medications will cause some drowsiness in the hours after your procedure.
Most people feel back to normal by the end of the day or the next. If you have any nausea or discomfort, you’ll need at least a day to rest before feeling like going anywhere.
We encourage patients to travel with their medication still in the original bottles and extra sterile gauze should a blood clot come loose, and pressure needs to be applied (although this is rare.)
Additionally, keep the phone number of your dentist with you should you need to contact someone at the airport or after landing.
Traveling with a friend or family member is helpful should complications arise. Moreso for the peace of mind and reassurance on how to handle any bleeding if it might occur.
As long as you wait at least two days to fly after your tooth extraction, you’ll be less likely to experience any unwanted side effects.
CONCLUSION
In most cases, it’s safe for you to fly on an airplane after a dental extraction, but you should talk with your dentist or oral surgeon ahead of the procedure.
Flights can change the pressure in the atmosphere around you, which may cause discomfort or problems like a dry socket.
It’s best to wait at least a day or two before traveling by plane.
If you have any concerns about flying after tooth extraction, speak with your dentist or oral surgeon before scheduling your surgical procedure.
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