July 2019

Traveling After Tooth Extraction

Posted on July 20, 2019 in General Dentistry, Tooth Extractions

It is not always easy to arrange your travel plans around your dental procedures, especially when it involves a tooth extraction you weren’t anticipating. While it may seem like there is no convenient time to have your tooth removed, putting off the procedure can lead to worsening decay, disease or damage depending on the reason for your extraction. But what if your tooth extraction is scheduled just days before your big trip? If it involves a lengthy day of travel or flying on an airplane, you need to take some precautions.

Getting on an airplane the day after an oral surgery is technically safe for most patients, but it is not ideal. The first 24-48 hours are typically the most critical in terms of healing after your extraction. It is advised that you get as much rest as possible to support oral healing and avoid dry socket, which is when the blood clot at the extraction site gets disturbed.

Airplane travel doesn’t always foster oral comfort. The change in altitude and cabin pressure can contribute to sinus pressure, headaches and toothaches in people who have not had any dental work performed. Therefore, it is important to take extra measures to protect your comfort and minimize risks.

If you can’t cancel your plane ticket and your dentist approves travel after your dental procedure, you can pack the following items to be prepared:

  • Pain medication: Don’t forget your prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication given by your dentist.
  • Extra gauze: You’ll need to change out your gauze periodically if you’re traveling within hours after your extraction.
  • A refillable water bottle: Staying hydrated is important. However, you’ll need to avoid hot, carbonated and acidic beverages for the first couple of days. Choose water and remember to use a bottle without a straw.
  • An empty zip-lock bag for ice: Pain and swelling can be relieved with a cold compress. The best option for airplane passengers is filling up an empty plastic bag with ice from the flight attendant.
  • Soft snacks: If possible, bring some easy-to-chew foods on the flight with you. Yogurt and applesauce are great choices after a tooth extraction.
  • Your dentist’s phone number: In the case of unexpected pain, swelling or other issues, don’t hesitate to call your dentist and get advice.

At the office of Dr. Wayne Suway, we don’t want you to have to cancel your summer trip due to an unexpected extraction or other unplanned dental procedure. However, we do encourage you to take the necessary steps to promote your comfort and eliminate dental risks when traveling soon after your dental visit. The healing that takes place after an extraction is a critical step. Contact our office today to learn what you can expect after your specific procedure.

Posted on behalf of Wayne G. Suway, DDS, MAGD

Wayne G. Suway, DDS, MAGD – Atlanta Dentist
1820 The Exchange SE, Suite 600
Atlanta, GA 30339
Phone: (770) 953-1752


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Wayne G. Suway, DDS, MAGD.

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Missy Stone

I have known Dr. Suway for 30 years. My parents found him originally and made me a believer and life long friend and patient. In the years since, I have recommended my husband, son and friends. I would hear that going to the dentist was a fear of many people. I could never understand that because it was always a pleasure to come to Dr. Suway’s office. His staff are so professional, gentle and kind. It’s nice to see the same faces twice a year. You can tell they love working with him. I tell people that Dr. Suway gives the best shots – you can’t even feel a pinch. My son who hates needles, has no problem getting a shot for a filling. I love Dr. Suway’s personality. When you walk in the office you might hear him singing a country western song. I have porcelain veneers on my front teeth and am so thrilled. It’s been 10 years and they are still white and beautiful. He is an artist and perfectionist who loves to make people happy. I recommend Dr. Suway to become your dentist. He is a man of character and professionalism, yet down to earth. If you choose Dr. Suway, you’ll get an excellent dentist, but also a friend for life.

Dennis & Maria Liber

Dr. Suway is very relaxed and as a result we find that we are very relaxed as well. He takes the time to listen when we have concerns and he answers questions fully. We never feel like he is rushing from us to another patient. When we do need fillings, crowns or any other extensive work, he is concerned that we are comfortable and feeling no pain.

Nealean K. Austin

Through the years, we have found Dr. Suway to be a skillful perfectionist in all areas of his profession. He keeps abreast of and utilizes the latest dental techniques to improve and ensure the longevity of his patient’s teeth. He is a caring, personable professional who always greets his patients with a sincere, ready smile. Dr. Suway is also a ‘confidence booster.’ I say this because by the time I was 30 years old I was wearing dentures. He immediately recognized a self-conscious young wife, mother and professional who needed his professional help. His approach to boosting my confidence was through dental implants. At that time dental implants were a relatively new procedure. Dr. Suway carefully explained to me the advantages of dental implants and was proactive in working with my insurance provider to ensure that they understood the correlation between the required dental procedures and health plan benefits. I can smile with confidence forever because of Dr. Suway. Dr. Suway’s staff is a mirror image of his positive professionalism. They are always courteous, knowledgeable, efficient and personable. Appointments are scheduled at your convenience. You know that your time is valued because at the precise time of your appointment you are greeted, then immediately seen by either Dr. Suway or a hygienist. His work is outstanding and he is one of a kind.

Allison Lewis

My husband and I have been patients of Dr. Suway since 1988. Dr. Suway and his staff have provided us with state-of-the-art oral health care in a pleasant, friendly and compassionate environment for many years. Dr. Suway has done many procedures for me including root canals, crowns and a bridge. His work is beautiful. He is truly a perfectionist and that is exactly what I want in a dentist. I would never trust my smile to anyone other then Dr. Suway.