From the Research
If you're experiencing root canal pain on an airplane, take over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen (400-600mg) before your flight, as it has been shown to be effective in reducing postoperative pain after nonsurgical root canal treatment 1. The pain occurs because air trapped in the tooth expands at higher altitudes, causing pressure against inflamed tissues. To minimize discomfort, consider the following:
- Avoid very hot or cold foods before flying
- Stay hydrated
- Consider using a decongestant like pseudoephedrine 30-60 minutes before takeoff to help keep sinus passages open If you have a partially completed root canal, consult your dentist before flying as they might recommend completing the procedure or providing temporary measures. For severe pain, applying a cold compress to your face may help reduce inflammation. This phenomenon, known as barodontalgia or "tooth squeeze," is temporary and should subside after landing, but persistent pain warrants a dental visit upon arrival at your destination. According to a recent study, ibuprofen had the highest analgesic efficacy in reducing pain score compared with other analgesics, such as mefenamic acid and celecoxib 1. Another study found that the combination of ibuprofen and acetaminophen may be more effective than ibuprofen alone for the management of postoperative endodontic pain 2. However, the most recent and highest quality study suggests that ibuprofen is a suitable option for pain relief in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis 1. It's essential to note that the evidence is not very strong, and more trials are warranted to confirm the results with a higher quality of evidence 3. In real-life clinical practice, it's crucial to prioritize the patient's comfort and safety, and ibuprofen is a commonly used and effective medication for pain relief.