Dental care is an essential part of overall health, however, we are well aware that many of us simply dislike the dentist and may be tempted to cancel for the slightest reason. First and foremost, generally you should keep your appointment and always avoid canceling at the last minute unless absolutely necessary.

There are certain situations when it might be necessary to cancel or reschedule a dental appointment. Understanding these scenarios is crucial for maintaining the safety and well-being of everyone involved.

When to Cancel Your Dental Appointment

Illness

The most common reason to cancel a dental appointment is illness. If you are experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, or other signs of a contagious illness, you should reschedule your appointment and aim to do so 3 days in advance if possible. This is especially important in the case of infectious diseases like the flu or COVID-19, as these can easily spread in close-contact environments like a dental office. 

Recent Hospitalization or Major Surgery

If you’ve recently been hospitalized or undergone major surgery, it’s advisable to postpone non-emergency dental treatments. Your body needs time to recover, and some procedures might interfere with your healing process. If you are unsure, feel free to give us a call and ask! We can help advise if you should postpone your visit or if it is still safe for you to keep your appointment.

Dental Emergency

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency (like severe pain, swelling, or trauma) that requires immediate attention at a different location, reschedule your routine appointment for a later date and seek immediate treatment if needed. However, dental emergencies generally benefit from seeing your regular dentist to determine the next steps if needed.

Allergic Reactions or New Health Concerns

If you’ve recently experienced allergic reactions to medications or developed new health issues, consult with your dentist before attending your appointment. Some conditions may require a different approach to dental care.

Medication Changes

Significant changes in your medication, particularly those affecting bleeding, heart conditions, or immune system function, should be communicated to your dentist. They may advise postponing treatment until they can assess how these changes impact your dental care.

Pregnancy

While routine dental care is safe during pregnancy, it’s best to inform your dentist if you’re pregnant. They might recommend rescheduling certain procedures, especially during the first trimester.

Exposure to Contagious Diseases

If you’ve been exposed to someone with a contagious disease, it’s responsible to cancel your appointment to prevent potential spread, particularly if the incubation period of the disease hasn’t passed.

To Cancel or Not to Cancel

While regular dental appointments are important for maintaining oral health, there are situations where rescheduling is the best course of action for the safety of all parties involved. If in doubt, always contact your dental office to discuss your specific circumstances.