It’s July, and most of our patients are planning or already heading to the Airport for a well-deserved summer vacation. But if you’ve ever felt a sharp, sudden twinge in your teeth the moment the plane starts its ascent, you aren’t imagining things.
 

There is a real clinical condition called Barodontalgia or the more commonly nickname (Airplane Teeth), and it can turn a routine flight into a very uncomfortable start to your trip.
 

The Science of the Squeeze

Just like a bag of chips puffs up in a plane cabin due to pressure changes, tiny pockets of air trapped inside your teeth can do the same thing.
If you have a small, undetected cavity or an old filling that has a microscopic leak, air can get trapped inside.
As the cabin pressure changes, that air expands, pushing directly against the sensitive nerves inside your tooth.

How to Prevent a Vacation Tooth Ache

Nothing ruins a trip faster than searching for an emergency dentist in a city you don’t know.
Here is how to make sure your smile is flight-ready:  

1. Sensitivity Warning: If you feel a slight sensitivity to cold drinks or sweets now, don’t ignore it. A minor annoyance on the ground can become significant pain once you hit 30,000 feet.

 

2. Check Your Old Fillings: Fillings don’t last forever. Over time, they can develop tiny leaks called margins. A quick checkup allows us to ensure everything is sealed tight so air can’t get trapped.

 

3. Plan Your Dental Work: If you’re in the middle of a multi-step procedure like a crown, try to get the permanent version placed before you travel. We always encourage our patients to get the permanent restorations placed before travelling. Permanent restorations are much better at handling pressure changes than temporaries.

 

 
Dr Hang Le and her team at My Fairfax Dental are ready to help educate you on your options for a pain-free summer. If you have a trip coming up and want to ensure your smile is ready for the skies, then please Contact us today to schedule a checkup and get the vacation you deserve.