Do you travel for work? Maybe you have a vacation planned in the coming weeks or months. Either way, finding out you need to have a tooth extracted can hinder your plans. After all, dentists generally recommend not flying after a tooth extraction. To learn why and six tips for a successful recovery, read on!
Why You Shouldn’t Fly Immediately After a Tooth Extraction
You’ve probably heard that flying after a tooth extraction isn’t a good idea, but why is that? In short, the significant changes in altitude and air pressure can cause complications, like extreme discomfort or a dry socket. Therefore, patients are encouraged to wait 48 hours before getting on a plane. Using those first two days to simply rest, stay hydrated, and recover is absolutely essential.
6 Tips for a Successful Recovery While Traveling
If you must travel, then there are a few tips that can help you along the way. For example:
- Fill any necessary prescriptions before your trip (pack them in your carry-on, not your luggage).
- Bring a cold compress to help alleviate any soreness.
- Keep a room-temperature bottle of water on-hand at all times.
- Pack clean gauze in your carry-on in case you need to change it out.
- Avoid sticky, hard, acidic, and sugary foods.
- Try to rest as much as possible on the plane.
Why You Shouldn’t Postpone Getting a Tooth Extraction
If you have an important trip on the calendar, then you may initially consider just postponing your tooth extraction until afterward. However, there are a few reasons you shouldn’t do this. To start, neglecting treatment can significantly increase your chances of experiencing a dental emergency while away, which can be both extremely stressful and painful. Secondly, waiting can allow the root of the problem to progress, especially if it’s an infection or decay. So, scheduling your tooth extraction when your dentist first recommends it is the best option.
Changing your travel plans because of a tooth extraction can be annoying. But it’s ultimately necessary. If you have a question about tooth extraction aftercare best practices, then read on!
About the Practice
For our team at Super Dental of Fitchburg, our goal first and foremost is always to help you achieve optimal oral health. If that includes a tooth extraction, then you can have peace of mind knowing that we use putty-free impressions, have two highly-skilled dentists, and happily accept dental insurance. As a result, the entire experience will be as positive and stress-free as possible. If you have a question about tooth extraction aftercare or you’d like to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (978) 342-8500.