Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, frequent exposure to cabin pressure can cause a variety of side effects. Although most will dissipate shortly after you adjust, some people may experience toothaches that simply won't go away. To help you prepare with the right dental care and reduce the associated discomfort, consider the following guide on flying and toothaches.

How Can Flying Cause Problems for Your Teeth?

One of the biggest reasons that people experience a toothache while flying is trapped air. When your body undergoes the pressure change on a plane, air can get trapped inside of dental fillings and cause discomfort. This is often caused by an old filling, or one that may not have been completely filled when treated. Additionally, cracked or chipped teeth can provide space for air to get into the dental cavity and cause discomfort. You may also experience a toothache while flying if you have sensitive teeth or untreated cavities. 

How Can You Manage Discomfort During a Flight?

If you travel frequently and experience toothaches, the best way to manage your discomfort during a flight is to see your dentist ahead of time. By undergoing the proper dental care, you can reduce the risk of air getting trapped inside your fillings, thus eliminating the cause of your toothache before it starts. Ideally, you should see your dentist twice per year, but you may need to go more frequently if acute issues arise. If you're still experiencing oral discomfort, talk to your dentist about pain medications that you can safely use during transit. Try to take these before you leave, so they have time to work prior to the changes in cabin pressure. Similarly, try to avoid cold beverages while flying as these can increase sensitivity of your teeth and gums.

If you experience frequent toothaches when flying, turn to the professionals at Four Corners Dental Group in Wasilla and Anchorage, AK. Their dentists and staff pride themselves on being the dental solution specialists and provide a wide variety of dental care services. With expensive experience and state-of-the-art tools, they're equipped to give you all of the support you need. Whether you're looking for a teeth cleaning and dental exam or cosmetic dentistry services, their team is able to help. To learn more about their services, visit their website, or call (907) 258-3384 to schedule an appointment today.