If you’ve just had a tooth extraction and have a flight scheduled soon, you might be wondering whether it’s safe to fly. While traveling after dental surgery isn’t always dangerous, there are important considerations to keep in mind. Pressure changes, healing timelines, and potential complications all play a role in determining whether it’s a good idea to board a plane. Here’s what you need to know about flying after a tooth extraction and how to do it safely.
Can You Fly After a Tooth Extraction?
In most cases, it’s safe to fly 24 to 48 hours after a simple tooth extraction. However, for more complicated procedures, such as the removal of impacted wisdom teeth or surgical extractions, your dentist may recommend waiting 3 to 7 days before flying. That extra healing time can help reduce the risk of pain, bleeding, or complications caused by air travel.
Always check with your dentist or oral surgeon before your trip. They can assess how your extraction site is healing and give personalized advice.
Why Flying Can Be a Concern
Airplane cabins are pressurized, but not to sea-level conditions. The change in air pressure can affect your sinuses and create pressure imbalances in your head and jaw. If your extraction site hasn’t fully healed, this pressure shift might cause increased pain, swelling or bleeding, delayed healing, or dry socket.
If your extraction involved upper molars near the sinuses, pressure changes might be even more noticeable, since those teeth are close to the sinus cavities.
Tips for Flying Comfortably After an Extraction
If you must fly soon after a tooth extraction, the following tips can help you travel more comfortably and reduce the risk of complications:
- Time your flight: If possible, schedule your flight at least 48 hours after the extraction to give your body time to start the healing process.
- Stay hydrated: Airplane cabins are dry. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated but avoid using straws as suction can disturb the blood clot and increase the risk of dry socket.
- Avoid hard or chewy foods: Stick to soft foods before and during your travel day to avoid irritating the surgical site.
- Bring pain medication: If you were prescribed pain relievers or antibiotics, carry them with you and follow the dosing schedule, even while in flight.
- Limit physical activity: Rest and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity while traveling. Movement can increase blood flow to the head and potentially cause bleeding at the extraction site.
When to Delay Travel
You should delay your flight and contact your dentist if you experience:
- Persistent bleeding.
- Severe or increasing pain.
- Signs of infection (fever, swelling, pus).
- A bad taste or odor from the extraction site.
Flying after a tooth extraction is generally safe, but timing and preparation matter. Listen to your body, follow your dentist’s post-op instructions, and communicate any concerns before you take off. A little caution can go a long way toward ensuring a smooth flight and a healthy recovery.
About the Author
Dr. Laura Gramse has been serving the Springfield community for more than 35 years. She is a graduate of the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and has extensive training in cosmetic, restorative, dental implant, and sleep dentistry. Dr. Gramse is a member of the American Dental Association and the Massachusetts Dental Society. If you’re in need of tooth extraction, visit our website to schedule your appointment or call one of our conveniently located offices in the Springfield and Palmer areas.