Cold and flu season doesn’t just affect your sinuses and energy levels-it can also disrupt your dental care routine. Many patients wonder whether they should go ahead with their dentist visit when they’re feeling under the weather or postpone until they feel better. At BloorWestSmiles, we understand that health decisions are rarely black-and-white.
Winter illnesses can strike at the worst times, often right before a scheduled cleaning or checkup. You’re left questioning what is best for your health and everyone else. Cancel and risk your oral health slipping? Or go, and worry about spreading germs? Knowing when to show up and when to stay home is essential, not just for your recovery, but for long-term dental care. Here’s how to decide what to do, and why oral health shouldn’t take a backseat, even when you’re sniffling.
Should You Go to the Dentist When You’re Sick?
Whether you should keep your appointment depends on how sick you are, what dental care is scheduled, and the potential health risks to others. A minor cold might not be reason enough to cancel, but more severe or contagious symptoms should give you pause. Either way, it’s essential to communicate with your dental care provider.
Give us a call and describe your symptoms. We can advise whether it’s appropriate to come in or whether rescheduling your dentist visit is safer for everyone involved. Keeping that open line of communication helps protect our team and other patients, and ensures you receive the care you need at the right time.
When It’s Safe to Keep Your Dental Appointment
You might be able to proceed with your appointment if your symptoms are mild, such as minor congestion or a lingering cough with no fever. If you are scheduled for a routine cleaning or non-invasive procedure and the clinic follows strict infection-control protocols, your dentist visit is likely safe to keep.
At BloorWestSmiles, we take health precautions seriously. All our team members use personal protective equipment, follow sanitization guidelines, and conduct pre-appointment screenings to maintain a safe environment for every dentist visit.
When You Should Reschedule Your Dentist Visit
You should consider rescheduling your dentist visit if you are experiencing a fever, vomiting, chills, or significant body aches. Persistent coughing, sneezing, or a sinus infection also increases the risk of spreading illness. If your symptoms are considered highly contagious or your dental care provider advises postponement, it’s better to stay home.
If you’re unsure, reach out to us. We’d rather you call and reschedule than show up feeling unsure or potentially contagious. In most cases, we can move your appointment without penalty.
Risks of Going to the Dentist When You’re Ill
Visiting your dentist while you’re under the weather can cause more problems than it solves. While dental health is important, it’s not worth risking your overall well-being or that of others. Here’s why you might want to postpone that appointment:
- Weakened immune system: Your body is already working hard to fight off illness. Dental procedures can add physical stress, potentially delaying your recovery.
- Risk of spreading infection: Coughing, sneezing, or simply breathing in a shared space increases the chance of transmitting germs to staff and other patients.
- Uncomfortable experience: Lying back in the chair while congested or with a sore throat can make even simple cleanings feel unbearable.
- Reduced effectiveness: If you’re unable to breathe comfortably through your nose or are distracted by symptoms, it may interfere with your ability to follow instructions or remain still during a procedure.
- Delays and cancellations: If your illness worsens mid-appointment, the procedure may need to be cut short or rescheduled, wasting time for you and your dental team.
- Post-procedure complications: An already taxed immune system might take longer to heal from dental work, increasing the risk of infection or delayed recovery.
If you’re experiencing symptoms like a cough, sore throat, fever, or trouble breathing, it’s best to stay home, rest, and reschedule once you’re feeling better.
Why Oral Health Still Matters During Cold and Flu Season
When you’re sick, your oral health can suffer. Dry mouth caused by medications, dehydration, or mouth breathing can increase the risk of cavities and bad breath. You may also slack on brushing or flossing when you’re tired, and acidic exposure from vomiting can weaken enamel.
Illness doesn’t pause the effects of plaque buildup or gum disease. In fact, bacteria can multiply more easily when the mouth is dry or neglected, compounding oral health problems. Staying on top of regular cleanings and checkups is part of overall wellness, especially when your body is already under strain. Healthy teeth and gums can also support your immune system, helping you recover faster and reduce inflammation.
How Dentists Help Keep You Safe During Cold and Flu Season
At BloorWestSmiles, we prioritize your health every step of the way. Our safety protocols include:
- Comprehensive infection control measures
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) for all staff
- Pre-appointment screening questions
- Thorough sanitization of treatment areas between patients
We encourage patients to communicate any concerns they have about attending appointments during flu season. Our goal is to make sure you feel confident and safe receiving the dental care you need.
Tips for Protecting Your Oral Health When You’re Sick
Even while recovering, it’s important to care for your mouth to avoid additional complications. Here are a few ways to protect your oral health when you’re sick:
- Stay hydrated to help reduce dry mouth: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Hydration keeps your saliva flowing, which helps protect against bacteria and decay.
- Avoid sugary cough drops, lozenges, and sports drinks: These products may soothe your throat, but they also coat your teeth in sugar. Look for sugar-free alternatives where possible.
- Continue brushing and flossing: Even if your energy is low, don’t skip your oral hygiene routine. Brushing and flossing help reduce bacterial buildup while you recover.
- Use a new toothbrush after recovering: Swap out your toothbrush once you’re feeling better to avoid reintroducing germs that could cause a relapse.
Following these habits can help ensure that a temporary illness doesn’t turn into a long-term oral health issue.
Don’t Neglect Your Dental Care — Even When You’re Under the Weather
Skipping or delaying dental care during cold and flu season can lead to bigger problems later. Left untreated, minor oral health issues can quickly escalate into painful infections or costly dental work. At BloorWestSmiles, our experienced team offers thorough assessments and gentle treatment tailored to your health needs, even during flu season. If you’re unsure whether you should attend your dentist visit, contact your dentist. They can help you make the right call. For expert guidance and compassionate care, turn to BloorWestSmiles.
For more information about our dental care services, reach out to BloorWestSmiles today at 416-766-2853 or contact us here.
FAQ: Dental Visits During Cold and Flu Season
Can I go to the dentist with a mild cold?
Yes, as long as you don’t have a fever or serious symptoms. Call ahead to confirm.
What if I start feeling sick right before my appointment?
Call your dental office immediately. They can advise whether to reschedule.
Can being sick affect my oral health?
Yes. Dry mouth, vomiting, and poor hygiene while sick can worsen oral health issues.
How long should I wait to reschedule after being sick?
Wait until you are fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication, and your symptoms have significantly improved. When in doubt, call your dental care provider.
Can I catch a cold or flu from the dentist office?
Dental clinics follow strict sanitation protocols to minimize this risk. Still, if you’re concerned, ask about their infection control measures.
Does my immune system affect how I heal after dental procedures?
Yes. A weakened immune system can slow healing. That’s why it’s best to schedule dental care when you’re feeling healthy.
Should I tell my dentist if I had the flu recently?
Absolutely. Letting your dentist know about your recent illness helps them take any additional precautions needed for your visit.
