Should You Go to the Dentist with a Cold?

Should You Go to the Dentist With a Cold?

When I had a cold last winter, I found myself facing a dilemma: I had a dentist appointment scheduled, but I wasn’t sure if I should go. On one hand, I didn’t want to cancel and risk delaying an important checkup. On the other hand, I wondered if it was a good idea to visit the dentist when I had a runny nose, sore throat, and a cough. I decided to dig into the topic, and here’s what I learned about whether it’s okay to go to the dentist when you have a cold.

1. What Happens When You Have a Cold?

A cold is caused by a viral infection, usually affecting the upper respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and sometimes the sinuses. I know the symptoms well: stuffy nose, coughing, sneezing, sore throat, and the general discomfort that makes you feel miserable. The body’s immune system is busy fighting the virus, which can lead to a weakened immune response. This is important when considering whether you should go to the dentist while sick.

The first thing I realized is that even though a cold isn’t as serious as, say, the flu or COVID-19, it can still make you feel unwell enough to consider postponing a dental appointment. The question I had was: should I risk spreading germs or make my immune system work harder during a dental procedure?

2. The Risk of Spreading a Cold

One of the biggest concerns I had was the possibility of spreading my cold. While a common cold isn’t typically as contagious as the flu, it is still passed through the air and by touching surfaces. In the dentist's office, you’ll often find yourself in close contact with staff who might be exposed to your cold. As much as I wanted to keep my dental routine on track, I also didn’t want to be responsible for making others sick, so I decided to assess the situation more carefully.

3. Is it Safe to Go to the Dentist with a Cold?

According to many dental professionals, the answer depends on your symptoms. If you have a mild cold and feel generally well enough to attend your appointment, it’s usually safe to go. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. First, if you have symptoms like fever, fatigue, or a cough that could cause you to spread germs, it’s best to reschedule your appointment. These symptoms can be uncomfortable for you and also make it harder for the dental staff to maintain a sterile environment.

In my case, since my cold was mild, I decided to go to the dentist, but I called ahead to let them know. The receptionist confirmed that as long as my symptoms were manageable, I could still keep my appointment. They did suggest that I wear a mask to minimize the chance of spreading germs and avoid any procedures that could be uncomfortable due to my cold.

4. Dental Procedures to Avoid When You’re Sick

If you decide to go to the dentist while you have a cold, there are certain procedures that may be less than ideal to undergo. For example, I learned that if you’re dealing with sinus pressure or a stuffy nose, procedures like teeth cleanings or fillings could be uncomfortable. Any work that requires you to lie back in the dental chair for an extended period could exacerbate your symptoms, especially if your nose is blocked and you’re struggling to breathe through your mouth.

In my case, I opted for a routine checkup and cleaning, but I made sure to tell my dentist about my symptoms. They were understanding and made adjustments to ensure I was as comfortable as possible during the visit. I was also advised to take short breaks if I felt the need to cough or sneeze during the appointment.

5. When You Should Reschedule Your Appointment

If you have more severe symptoms, like fever, body aches, or if you’re experiencing a severe sore throat or difficulty breathing, it’s a good idea to reschedule your dental appointment. Dental professionals recommend waiting until you’re no longer contagious or feeling ill before going in for a procedure. If you’re unsure whether your symptoms warrant rescheduling, it’s always a good idea to call your dentist’s office and ask for their advice. They’re used to handling these situations and will be able to guide you on what’s best.

I learned the hard way that trying to go to the dentist when I wasn’t feeling well could lead to discomfort during the appointment. It’s much more relaxing and beneficial to reschedule when you’re truly ready for the procedure, so you can get the most out of your visit.

6. Tips for Your Next Visit to the Dentist

If you do decide to go to the dentist while under the weather, here are a few tips to make the experience smoother:

• Notify the Dentist: Always call ahead and inform them of your cold symptoms. They may make special accommodations or adjust the appointment.
• Bring Tissues and a Mask: Carry tissues and a mask to minimize any chance of spreading germs.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and after your appointment to keep your throat from getting dry, especially if you have a cough or congestion.
• Keep Your Appointment Short: If possible, opt for a shorter appointment or limit the number of procedures performed while you’re sick.

7. The Bottom Line: Is It Safe to Go to the Dentist with a Cold?

Ultimately, I learned that going to the dentist with a mild cold is generally okay as long as you’re considerate of others and mindful of your symptoms. If your cold is causing discomfort, or if you have severe symptoms, it’s better to reschedule your appointment. This ensures you’re comfortable during the procedure and that you won’t risk spreading the illness to others.

In my case, the dental staff was very understanding, and we made adjustments to ensure my comfort during the visit. If you're not sure about whether to attend your appointment, always err on the side of caution and reach out to your dentist's office for guidance.

If you’re in need of a dental checkup and aren’t sure whether to go due to illness, reach out to the experts at Dentistry Toothtruth for personalized advice. They’re happy to help you decide the best course of action!