Call if you develop:
- Cold symptoms
- Cough
- Nasal congestion
- Sore throat
- Fever or chills
- Flu-like symptoms
PRE-OP SAFETY GUIDE
What if I am getting sick before wisdom teeth surgery?
If you start feeling sick before surgery, do not try to make the decision on your own about whether to proceed. The safest step is usually to call the office so your symptoms can be reviewed in context.
Even a common cold can matter if you are scheduled for sedation or anesthesia. The right plan depends on what symptoms you have, how severe they are, when they started, and what type of procedure is planned.
When to call the office
If you develop any illness near your surgery date, contact the office rather than deciding on your own to proceed. This is especially important if you are scheduled for IV sedation or anesthesia.
Also call if you have:
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- A new infection
- A new medication started for illness
- Any question about whether it is safe to come in
The safest default
If you are becoming sick before surgery, call the office. Do not assume that a mild illness is automatically fine, and do not assume surgery must always be canceled either. The correct decision depends on the details.
Symptoms that can affect the plan
Some symptoms matter more than others, especially when sedation or anesthesia is involved. Breathing-related symptoms are often the most important to review ahead of time.
- Coughing can make airway management less straightforward
- Congestion may affect breathing comfort and nasal airflow
- Fever may suggest a more significant illness or active infection
- Nausea, vomiting, or stomach illness can change pre-op safety planning
The closer symptoms begin to the day of surgery, the more important it is to call promptly rather than waiting to “see how you feel” on your own.
Why being sick can affect wisdom teeth surgery
Wisdom teeth surgery is not judged only by the teeth. Your overall condition on the day of surgery matters too. If you are sick, the office may need to decide whether it is better to proceed, delay, or adjust the plan.
Why the office may want to know
- To review whether your symptoms affect sedation or anesthesia safety
- To reduce avoidable day-of problems
- To decide whether the procedure should move forward as planned
- To help you avoid making a last-minute judgment call without guidance
Why calling early helps
- It gives the team time to review your situation
- It can prevent unnecessary travel to the office
- It helps avoid confusion about fasting, medications, or arrival plans
- It allows a calmer plan instead of a rushed day-of decision
What to do if symptoms start the day before or morning of surgery
Do not decide on your own to proceed
Call the office and describe your symptoms clearly
Mention fever, cough, congestion, wheezing, or stomach illness
Mention any new medication started for the illness
Follow the office’s guidance about whether to come in
Call early for guidance
Most issues are easier to handle when the office hears from you early. Calling for guidance is part of safe preparation.