All You Need to Know About Preventing and Fighting Tooth Squeeze

Tooth squeeze, also known as barodontalgia, is a common dental issue for those who experience altitude changes often, like pilots and scuba divers. It can also be an issue for those who mountain climb or drive a submarine. Either way, it’s a dental issue that occurs when the air pressure changes.

If you have air pockets in your teeth, you might experience tooth squeeze as well. The air pockets form when you have damaged or loosened dental restorations or when you have tooth decay. When you change altitudes, the air pressure makes the air pockets in your teeth expand or contract. This causes severe pain and discomfort. So, to help you prevent or deal with this issue, our The Chicago Family Dental Center team encourages you to do the following things:

Before Your Adventure

-Get a dental exam: If you get a dental exam before your adventure, your dentist, Dr. Gary Wegmann, can identify and treat any signs of decay and infection and he can replace old dental crowns and fillings if necessary.

-Maintain your oral health: Make sure to keep up on oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing and rinsing once a day. It’s also vital that you visit your dentist every six months for a routine cleaning and exam. Keeping up on oral hygiene and visiting your dentist can prevent tooth decay and other dental issues.

-Wait after treatment: It’s best to avoid flying or diving for at least 24 hours after you’ve received a treatment that involved anesthetic. We also recommend waiting for at least one week if you received an oral surgery treatment.

During and After Your Adventure

-Avoid consuming hot or cold products: Sudden temperature changes in your mouth can make the pain worse, so it’s best to avoid eating or drinking hot or cold foods and drinks. You’ll have better luck sticking to room-temperature snacks.

-Visit your dentist ASAP: Once you’re on land, it’s best to make an emergency appointment with your dentist. This gives him the opportunity to fix any loose restorations and treat the causes of your pain.

To learn more about tooth squeeze in Chicago, Illinois, please don’t be afraid to call our office at 312.551.0500 and talk to a member of our dental team. We also encourage you to schedule an appointment with your dentist, Dr. Gary Wegmann, if you’re about to go on an adventure and you need your teeth checked. We’ll be happy to help you!