After your dentist surgically places your dental implant posts along your jawbone, they’ll give you more than a few post-op instructions to follow. But you have travel plans. Since there’s a specific way you’ll have to take care of your smile and you did, after all, just have oral surgery, you might be wondering an age-old question, “Should I stay or should I go?”
The answer actually depends on the nature of your treatment. Here’s what you should know before traveling after dental implant surgery.
One Implant: Clear for Takeoff
If you only had one dental implant placed, you’ll be unlikely to experience complications. And that applies to both road trips and flights! Of course, you’ll still want to make proper preparations so you can follow your post-op instructions regardless of your location. But your implant dentist will likely give you the “all clear” for travel.
More Extensive Surgery: Best to Reschedule
If you had multiple dental implants placed or additionally received a bone graft, on the other hand, your implant dentist will probably advise you to wait a week or two. More extensive surgery requires more extensive recovery, and it’s generally best to stay home and rest. Otherwise, you could slow the healing or osseointegration process.
Other Factors to Consider Before Your Trip
While the extent of your treatment and your dentist’s recommendation are the most important factors in considering whether you should keep your travel plans or not, there are a few other things you should take into account as well. For example:
- It’s important to make sure you’re able to attend follow-up appointments in-person.
- You will have to maintain a soft food diet, which can complicate travel plans.
- If you’ll be driving, you’ll have to make sure any medications you’ll be taking (such as prescription pain killers) won’t impair your ability to safely operate a vehicle.
Staying Comfortable During Travel
If you decide to travel after implant surgery, whether it be by car, plane, or boat, packing strategically will help you stay comfortable. Here are some items you should have on-hand and within easy reach:
- Any prescription or over-the-counter pain relievers
- Soft foods and snacks
- Water
- A cold compress
- A cozy pillow and/or blanket
- Oral hygiene supplies (your toothbrush, floss, toothpaste, etc.)
It’s also a good idea to have a driving buddy when traveling via car, and to keep your head elevated when you’re ready to take a nap or sleep for the night. Finally, remember to avoid strenuous activity – that includes swimming, hiking, and lifting heavy luggage!
Double-Check Your Plans with Your Dentist
When in doubt, don’t hesitate to go over your travel plans with your implant dentist. That way, they can help you make sure you have every detail covered and are well-prepared for your trip.
If you’ll be staying home after dental implant surgery, rest up and try to enjoy the peace. If you’ll be on the road or in the air, have a safe trip – and call your dentist if you experience complications or need a reminder about your post-op instructions!
About the Author
Dr. Steve Cha is proud to be certified by the Advanced Dental Implant Research & Education Center. His advanced training makes him well-qualified to place and restore dental implants in-office and help patients with post-op travel plans as needed. To book an appointment with Dr. Cha or ask about your dental implants, contact his office at 972-529-1800.