Should You Go to the Dentist When You're Sick? Here's What to Do

Waking up with a sore throat, cough, or a fever on the day of your dental appointment is never ideal. You want to prioritize your oral health, but you also don't want to expose others in the clinic to your illness. So, should you go to the dentist when sick?

At Kings Dental, serving families in Cincinnati and Mason, we want to help you make the best choice for your health and the well-being of everyone in our office. Here is what you should consider before heading to the dentist with a cold or flu.

When Is It Okay to Go to the Dentist While Sick?

If you have a very mild cold with no fever, you might still be able to come in for your routine dental cleaning. However, it is vital to communicate with the office first. The American Dental Association (ADA) advises that if you experience symptoms of COVID-19 or any respiratory illness, you should call your dental office before your visit. You could be carrying a virus that might put staff and other patients at risk.

It is generally best to stay home if you have:

• A fever
• A deep, continuous cough
• Severe nasal congestion
• Nausea or stomach illness

Why Congestion Makes Dental Visits Difficult

If you are heavily congested, laying back in a dental chair can be incredibly uncomfortable. During most procedures, your mouth must remain open, meaning you need to rely on your nose to breathe. If your nose is completely stuffed up, breathing becomes difficult, which can make the entire experience stressful.

Additionally, did you know that sinus infections can cause tooth pain? The roots of your upper teeth sit very close to your sinus cavities. When those cavities are inflamed, they can press on the roots, mimicking a toothache. If you are experiencing upper tooth pain alongside cold symptoms, a sinus infection might be the real culprit.

How to Care for Your Teeth When You Are Unwell

Just because you are staying home does not mean your oral hygiene should take a break. The ADA notes that brushing your teeth when you are sick can actually make you feel a bit better and refreshed. Taking care of your body is the top priority during illness, and that includes your mouth.

"It's important to take care of your dental health all year round, but especially when you're sick." This is according to ADA guidance on cold and flu season.

Try these simple tips to maintain your oral health while recovering:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth from drying out.
• Keep brushing: Stick to your twice-daily brushing and flossing routine.
• Rinse after vomiting: If you have a stomach bug, do not brush immediately after vomiting. Instead, rinse with water or a diluted mouthwash to neutralize stomach acids before brushing later.

What If You Have a Dental Emergency While Sick?

Sometimes, tooth pain simply cannot wait. If you are dealing with a severe toothache, swelling, or trauma, you might need emergency dental care even if you are feeling under the weather. In these situations, call our office immediately. Explain your symptoms, both dental and medical. We can advise you on the safest way to proceed and whether you need to be seen right away or if we can manage your discomfort until you are no longer contagious.

Your overall health and the safety of our Cincinnati and Mason communities are our top priorities. If you are unsure whether you should come in, it is always better to call and ask. If you need to stay home and rest, we will gladly help you reschedule your appointment for when you are feeling better.

Schedule a visit at Kings Dental today to keep your smile healthy and bright.

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This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice from your dentist. Please schedule a visit to discuss your situation.