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If you’ve ever boarded a plane with a toothache, you probably remember the pain intensifying after takeoff. Perhaps you weren’t surprised; cabin pressure can do a number on the ears and sinuses, after all. But developing a totally new toothache while up in the air can be surprising. If you’ve ever experienced a toothache while flying, despite having good oral hygiene, here’s what you should know. 

Why Flying Affects the Teeth

The primary culprit of unexplained tooth pain and sensitivity while flying is a decrease in atmospheric pressure. As the plane reaches cruising altitude, the air inside it reacts to the changing pressure. This includes any air pockets trapped in your teeth, like under a filling or inside a fracture. Characterized by a sharp or throbbing ache, the condition, which is also common among deep-sea divers, is called barodontalgia.

oral hygieneThankfully, barodontalgia only affects “problem” teeth because those are the only ones that can contain trapped air. Your healthy teeth will remain unaffected. Although flying may worsen an existing toothache or alert you of an issue that had yet to manifest symptoms, it can't actually cause any new damage. 

How to Manage Pain While Flying 

The best way to manage toothaches while traveling is by preventing them from arising in the first place. If you have any oral hygiene concerns, visit your dentist before your next trip so you can address them. As for handling discomfort en route, pain medication can help. If recovering from a recent procedure, your dentist should’ve prescribed some drugs or recommended various over-the-counter options. Chances are he or she will advise you to take them prior to actually boarding the plane. 

If you weren’t anticipating the pain, ask those whom you’re traveling with if they have any over-the-counter pain relievers on them. Otherwise, buy a small travel packet during your layover so you’re covered for the next leg of the trip, and avoiding sipping hot or cold beverages in the meantime. And don’t forget to make a dentist appointment as soon as you get home so you can determine why the tooth was affected in the first place. 

 

If you want to combat tooth pain and sensitivity once and for all, turn to Periodontal Visions, Inc. At their state-of-the-art facilities in Cincinnati and Fairfield, OH, they treat complicated oral health issues. Led by Dr. Robert Limardi, who has more than 25 years of experience in the field, they’re proud to help patients take back their oral hygiene. Whether you need dental implants or gum disease treatment, you can count on their knowledgeable team for compassionate care. To schedule a visit to discuss your oral hygiene, call (513) 870-9672, or visit their website to find the office nearest you.

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