Flying For The Holidays? Get Your Dental Work Done First!

Many people don't know this, but flying can make toothaches much worse, and sometimes flying can bring to light toothaches you didn't realize you had. If you're planning to fly to friends and relatives this year at the holidays, you're going to want your teeth to be in the best condition possible. Follow these tips to help avoid an unpleasant flying experience this holiday season.

Make A Dentist Appointment A Few Weeks Before You Fly

The best way to avoid a dental problem on an airplane is to make a dentist appointment a few weeks before you fly. Give yourself enough time that if your dentist were to discover a serious dental problem--like a condition necessitating a root canal, for example--there would be enough time to get the problem fixed. Since root canals are often fixed in two sessions with around a week between appointments, it's a good idea to make your appointment with the dentist a few weeks before you plan to leave.

Know What To Do If Your Tooth Aches On An Airplane

If you don't go to the dentist before you leave and you do happen to get a toothache on an airplane, you can take pain medication if you have some with you, but this may not fix the problem. Drink plenty of water, but avoid drinking very hot or cold drinks as this can affect the sensitivity of the tooth. If possible, try to fall asleep. Going to sleep may make the time go faster and turn off the pain in your mouth for a while.

It's also important to realize that toothaches and sinus aches can often feel the same because the sinuses are located above the teeth. If you experience a toothache in your upper jaw, this could be a sinus ache. To relieve pressure in your sinuses, try plugging your nose and gently blowing until your ears pop. You can also try chewing gum, but if your ache turns out to be a dental problem, this could exacerbate the issue.

Have The Phone Number For An Emergency Dentist On Hand

It's a good idea to contact your dentist and dental insurance company before you fly, to get the phone number for a dentist at your destination. This way, if a dental problem reveals itself on your flight or during your holiday travels, you can get your problem treated when you reach your destination. Addressing your dental problem as soon as possible may enable you to enjoy your holiday feasts free of pain.