Why Does My Tooth Hurt on an Airplane?

Flying isn't always the most pleasurable experience. The lines are long, the seats are cramped and uncomfortable, and the food is usually bad. But, if you're also getting a toothache when you're on an airplane, you're probably not looking forward to your next flight. 

So, why does your tooth hurt when you're on an airplane, and what can you do about it? 

Here's what you need to know. 

How Air Pressure Affects Your Body 

Do you know why your ears pop when the plane is ascending or descending? It's because they are trying to equalize and adapt to the changes in air pressure. 

Airplanes fly at amazing heights of over 30,000 feet. However, the air up there is too thin for us to breathe, so the cabin is pressurized.

When the plane is on the ground, for example, the cabin is not pressurized yet. It will begin the process at about 6,000 or 8,000 feet. Until the air in the cabin is pressurized to its normal values, it will get thinner and thinner, making your ears pop and, in some instances, causing you a toothache. 

Still, why does your tooth hurt on an airplane? 

Reasons Your Tooth Hurts on an Airplane 

If you have good oral health, then you won't experience toothaches when flying. However, several dental issues can make this experience more uncomfortable:

• Cavities: As you probably know, cavities eat away at your teeth, creating tiny holes in them. As the airplane ascends and the air gets thinner, it can sneak through those tiny holes and cause pain. 

• Air Gets Trapped in Your Filling: If you have an old filling with a small tear in it, air might get trapped between it and your natural tooth and cause pain. 

• Chipped Teeth: You get the point by now. If your teeth are healthy, then you don't get toothaches because there is no room for the air to sneak in or get trapped. But, if your tooth has a chip or crack, then that small gap may be enough for the air to get trapped inside. 

What Should You Do If You Experience Tooth Pain When Flying? 

Toothache when flying is a clear sign that something is wrong with your oral health and you need to schedule an appointment with your Cibolo dentist to find the cause. Unfortunately, because their teeth only hurt when they fly, most people postpone or ignore seeing the dentist altogether. 

If you know you get a toothache every time you are on an airplane, see your dentist before you take your next trip. 

Book Your Next Appointment with Dr. Patel 

If you get regular toothaches when flying and you suspect you may have a cavity or that an old filling got damaged, Dr. Patel at Cibolo Family Smiles can take care of any dental problem before your next flight. 

Send us a message right now to book your next appointment.