With summer vacation season here and the holidays fast approaching, many people are beginning to book their travel for the year. However, if you’re scheduled to undergo dental implant surgery in the coming months, you may be wondering if it’s safe to fly following your procedure. The good news is that your treatment doesn’t necessarily have to keep you grounded. Here’s a closer look at some recommended wait-times before you hit the friendly skies following dental implant surgery!
How Soon Can I Fly After Dental Implant Surgery?
Whether traveling for business or pleasure, many patients wonder how soon they’ll be able to take off following their dental implant surgery. However, the answer to that question depends on several factors.
First, you’ll need to consider how many dental implants you are receiving. One single post that required no extractions or bone grafting should be fairly a straightforward procedure, and most likely won’t require any delay in travel. In fact, you could conceivably take a plane immediately after your surgery ends. Still, your dentist recommends waiting at least a day or two before jetting off if possible.
For more complex surgeries, including those where you’ll be receiving multiple dental implants, it is best to wait a bit longer, possibly even several days. Keep in mind that while it may be safe to travel, it might not be comfortable to do so just yet, especially if your mouth is still bleeding.
How Soon Can I Fly After a Sinus Lift or Bone Graft?
Often, patients need preliminary treatment before receiving dental implants. This may come in the form of bone grafting or a sinus lift. If you must travel following either of these procedures, it is advisable to wait at least 10 to 14 days before taking off, both for your comfort and to ensure that you heal properly during this important time.
For procedures like a tooth extraction, you should wait for at least 24 to 48 hours; more so if you’ve had multiple extractions. That’s because the pressure in the cabin could create imbalances in your jaw or head, causing pain and making it easier to dislodge your blood clot, leading to a serious complication known as dry socket.
Remember, while it may not always be possible to avoid travelling for work or in cases of emergency, if you’ll be taking any step in dental implant treatment, depending on the procedure it is advisable to wait to take a plane for at least a day or so, or longer if possible. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to discuss them with your dentist before booking your flight, or in some cases, you may benefit from rescheduling your surgery until after you return.
About Our Practice
Dental implants are the world’s only permanent tooth replacement option, providing unprecedented convenience when enjoying and caring for your smile. Imagine being able to take off at a moment’s notice without worrying about how you’ll soak your dentures!
At Smileworks General & Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re pleased to offer dental implant treatment, so you can once again embrace all the freedom that goes along with a complete, healthy grin. To learn more and to see if you qualify, visit our website or call us today at 843-351-6422 to schedule a dental implant consultation.