Root Canal pre or post vacation?

[Terry6]

I need a root canal on an upper molar (2nd from back). I'm going on vacation September 28th for 3 weeks, long haul flight 13hrs.

I have an appointment booked September 10th for the initial treatment but I don't know whether to wait until I get home from vacation to have the treatment? I'm concerned that if the dentist starts the treatment I might have pain while I'm away and have read some horror stories of flying and recent dental work. I don't think the treatment would be complete before I go so would just have a temp filling I assume?

On the flip side, I'm also worried that if I go away with it as it is it could flare up when I'm there. I'm travelling around on a tight schedule so wouldn't want to have to try and find an emergency dentist that would be able to help me or be in pain and have vacation ruined. I'm not having any pain at the moment, can still eat/chew on that side and no sensitivity to cold/hot. My gum is sore but only if pressed.

Does anyone have any experience of this or have any advise on what they think I should do?

 

[MattKW]

The 10th is a long way from 28th so I'd suggest you have that appointment. You would still have 2.5 weeks for any possible sequlae to settle. Talk to your dentist before the 10th - send an email query.

 

[Terry6]

Hi Matt

I spoke to the dentist yesterday and he basically said it’s up to me. I’m rubbish at making decisions and feel both options have unknown pros and cons but I think I’ll go for it and hope for the best. At least if my temporary filling falls out whilst I’m away that should hopefully be easier to get treated than if I get toothache