Are you always on the go, or do you have an upcoming trip that you are looking forward to? If so, you might wonder about how oral surgery will affect your ability to fly or drive long distances. When is it safe to travel after receiving dental implants? This blog post provides some practical points that you should keep in mind when you are planning the dates for both your procedure and your next getaway.
When Can You Fly?
Technically, it should be safe for you to fly right after your dental implant surgery. However, doing so is not advisable; changes in altitude may cause you some discomfort, and walking long distances through a big airport is not recommended, either. It is usually best to wait 10 – 14 days before boarding a plane. By that time, the soft tissues at your surgical sites should be well along in the healing process.
Waiting is especially important for individuals who undergo a relatively complex procedure. For example, if you plan to receive multiple implants, a bone graft, or a sinus lift, you should certainly not schedule any big trips during the first several days after your appointment.
Tips for Comfortable Flying
If you choose to fly before your mouth is feeling normal, these tips may make your experience a bit more comfortable:
- Bring a few resealable plastic bags. You can ask the flight attendant to fill them with ice to create a makeshift icepack.
- Bring pain relievers.
- Pack some gauze if you are still bleeding intermittently.
- Get to the airport plenty early so you do not have to rush to get to your gate.
- Pack soft snacks that will be easy for you to eat.
What About Road Trips?
It is important that you wait at least a day or two before you get behind the wheel of a car. Any sedation from your procedure should be completely worn off before you drive. Once you are feeling alert enough to operate a vehicle, it should be safe for you to go on a road trip. Just be sure to pack pain relievers, gauze, and other supplies that will help you to care for your surgical sites while you are traveling.
Do Not Hesitate to Ask for Help
If you run into any concerns while you are healing from your surgery, even if you are far from home, feel free to call your surgical team. They can guide you on your next steps so you can get your recovery back on track.
Dental implant surgery might affect your travel plans, so be sure to plan your trip in a way that considers your oral health and comfort!
Meet the Practice
Piney Point Dental Implant Center features three board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons, all of whom are eager to provide top-quality dental implant services for patients throughout the Houston area. If you have questions about what to expect during your tooth replacement journey, our team would be happy to speak with you. Reach out to us at 713-597-7340.