Some love flying, and some hate it, but for some travellers, it comes with an unexpected and painful side effect: a toothache. If you’ve ever experienced sharp dental pain mid-flight, you’re not alone. In this blog, we’ll explain why flying can cause toothaches, how to prevent them, and what to do if tooth pain strikes at 30,000 feet.
Why Do Toothaches Happen While Flying?
Changes in barometric pressure typically cause tooth pain during air travel. As the aeroplane ascends and descends, the air pressure in the cabin changes rapidly. This can affect air pockets trapped in your teeth, especially if you have:
- Tooth decay or cavities
- Cracked or damaged fillings
- Recent dental work
- Gum disease or abscesses
These tiny air pockets, which were created, expand when cabin pressure decreases, putting pressure on the tooth and surrounding nerves – resulting in what’s known as barodontalgia, or “tooth squeeze”.
Symptoms Of Tooth Pain While Flying:
If you experience any of the below symptoms, it may be a sign of an underlying dental problem that needs professional attention:
- Sharp, stabbing pain in a specific tooth
- Dull, throbbing ache during ascent or descent
- Pain that worsens when chewing or biting
- Sensitivity to hot or cold drinks
How To Prevent Toothache On A Plane
Here are a few practical ways to minimise your risk of tooth pain while flying:
- Visit Your Dentist Before Flying: Have a routine check-up before long trips, especially if you’ve had recent dental work.
- Address Cavities & Fillings Early: Don’t delay treatment for known issues, as pressure changes will worsen them.
- Avoid Chewing Hard Foods During Flight: Stick to soft snacks and avoid crunchy or sticky foods that can trigger pain.
- Stay Hydrated: Dry cabin air can exacerbate discomfort, so thus, drinking water helps.
- Use Nasal Decongestants If Needed: Sinus pressure can mimic or worsen tooth pain.
Quick Relief Tips For In-Flight Tooth Pain
If pain hits mid-flight, here are some tips to ease discomfort:
- Take Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relief such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Apply a Cold Compress: Use a cool, damp napkin against your cheek to numb the area.
- Avoid Hot Drinks: Hot liquids can intensify pain – opt for water or cold beverages instead.
- Chew on the Opposite Side: Avoid chewing or using the painful tooth when eating or drinking.
When To See A Dentist
If you frequently have a toothache during air travel, or if the pain persists after landing, it’s important to schedule a dental appointment. Persistent or severe pain could indicate:
- Deep decay or infection
- Damaged dental work
- Root canal issues
- Sinus-related dental pressure
A qualified dentist can identify the root cause and recommend the appropriate treatment to prevent future discomfort.
Toothache while flying is more common than you might think, but it’s often preventable with proper dental care. By addressing any underlying issues before your trip and knowing how to manage pain during your flight, you can enjoy your travels pain-free. Need help with recurring toothaches? Book a consultation with our professional and friendly team today, and fly comfortably tomorrow.
