can you get your wisdom teeth removed while sick

2 min read 11-12-2024

can you get your wisdom teeth removed while sick

Meta Description: Considering wisdom teeth removal while sick? Learn about the risks, recovery impact, and when it's best to postpone your procedure. We cover common illnesses, infection risks, and advice for rescheduling. Don't risk complications – get informed before your surgery! (158 characters)

Understanding the Risks of Wisdom Teeth Removal During Illness

Getting your wisdom teeth removed is a significant oral surgery. It requires your body to be in optimal condition for healing. If you're sick, the risks of complications increase substantially. This article explores those risks and helps you make an informed decision.

Why Postponing is Often Best

Your immune system fights infection and promotes healing. When you're sick, your immune system is weakened. This makes you more susceptible to infection after surgery. The healing process could also be significantly slower and more painful.

Common Illnesses That Warrant Postponement

Several illnesses make wisdom teeth removal risky. These include:

Cold or Flu: Simple infections like colds and the flu can lead to post-operative complications. Your body needs all its resources for healing. A weakened immune system makes fighting off bacteria more difficult. This can lead to a more painful recovery or even a serious infection.
Fever: A fever indicates your body is fighting an infection. This makes surgery much riskier, potentially leading to delayed healing and increased pain.
Upper Respiratory Infection (URI): URIs increase your chances of developing pneumonia or other lung complications after surgery. This is because anesthesia can depress your respiratory system. A pre-existing infection increases the risk of more severe issues.
Sinus Infection: Similar to URIs, sinus infections increase the risk of complications during and after surgery.
Active Infection: Any active infection, whether bacterial or viral, necessitates postponing the procedure. This includes strep throat, mononucleosis, and other infectious diseases.

What Happens if You Proceed While Sick?

Going ahead with wisdom teeth removal while unwell can lead to several potential issues:

Increased risk of dry socket: A dry socket is a painful condition where the blood clot protecting the extraction site dislodges. This is more likely if your body's ability to clot blood is compromised by illness.
Slower healing: Your body needs its resources to fight infection. It may not have enough energy left for proper wound healing. This can lead to a longer recovery time and increased discomfort.
Increased risk of infection: This is perhaps the most significant risk. A weakened immune system leaves you more vulnerable to bacterial infections, potentially leading to serious complications.
Compromised anesthesia: Certain illnesses may affect how your body responds to anesthesia. This can make the procedure more challenging and potentially risky.

When Is It Safe to Schedule Your Procedure?

Ideally, wait until you're completely symptom-free for at least two weeks before scheduling your wisdom teeth removal. This allows your body to fully recover and strengthen its immune system. Always consult with your oral surgeon. They can assess your health and determine when the best time for surgery is.

Talking to Your Oral Surgeon

Open communication with your oral surgeon is crucial. Be upfront about any symptoms you're experiencing. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific condition and the nature of your procedure. Rescheduling is always better than risking serious complications.

Conclusion: Prioritize Your Health

Getting your wisdom teeth removed is a serious surgical procedure. It's important to prioritize your health and wait until you're completely recovered from any illness before undergoing the procedure. Contact your oral surgeon with any concerns. They'll help you determine the safest and most effective course of action. Remember, postponing your surgery is always a better option than risking complications from a weakened immune system.