Developing symptoms of an illness just before a scheduled wisdom tooth extraction is common. The decision to proceed with surgery prioritizes patient safety, especially concerning airway management. Wisdom tooth removal often uses IV sedation or general anesthesia, which can compromise normal breathing functions. Therefore, oral surgeons nearly always postpone an elective procedure if an active illness risks the patient’s respiratory health.
Types of Illnesses That Require Postponement
Symptoms affecting the respiratory system or indicating a systemic infection are most likely to require rescheduling. A mild head cold with only a slight runny nose might sometimes be permissible, but this decision rests solely with the surgical team. However, any illness including a fever (over 100°F) is a clear sign of an active infection and necessitates a delay.
Respiratory symptoms like a productive cough, sore throat, or severe nasal congestion are major red flags. These issues indicate inflammation and excess mucus, complicating the administration of anesthesia by making nasal breathing difficult.
Active infections, such as the flu, bronchitis, or COVID-19, are also grounds for postponement. This is due to the systemic strain on the body and the risk of spreading the illness to staff and other patients. Systemic issues like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea also generally require rescheduling.
Even non-contagious conditions like severe allergies causing uncontrollable coughing or sneezing can lead to a delay. Sudden, involuntary movement while the surgeon is working with sharp instruments could cause injury to the oral tissues.
Specific Risks of Anesthesia and Surgery While Sick
The main complication of undergoing surgery while sick relates to anesthesia affecting an already compromised respiratory system. Sedation and general anesthesia depress natural reflexes and breathing function, challenging airway management for the surgical team. Congestion or a cough increases the difficulty of maintaining a clear and stable airway during the procedure.
A significant risk is aspiration, where stomach contents or excessive respiratory secretions are inhaled into the lungs. Illnesses compromise protective reflexes, and congestion or inflammation exacerbates this danger. A recent respiratory infection can leave air passages sensitive for several weeks, increasing the likelihood of adverse respiratory events.
Immune System Strain
An active illness strains the patient’s immune system, which is already fighting the infection. Elective surgery is stressful, and undergoing it while unwell diverts resources away from healing the surgical site. This competition for immune resources can lead to delayed recovery and potentially increase the risk of a secondary infection at the extraction site.
Patient Responsibilities for Appointment Changes
If a patient develops symptoms before their scheduled wisdom tooth removal, they must immediately contact the oral surgeon’s office. Patients must be transparent about the nature and severity of their symptoms. This honesty ensures the surgical team can make an informed decision regarding patient and staff safety.
The decision to postpone depends on the illness, but the common recommendation is to wait until the patient is completely symptom-free before rescheduling. For severe illnesses like influenza, professionals may advise waiting at least two weeks after symptoms fully resolve. This waiting period allows the respiratory and immune systems sufficient time to recover, minimizing anesthesia risks and promoting optimal healing.