Can I Have Oral Surgery If I Have a Cold?

Posted on 6/3/2024 by San Tan Oral Surgery

A man in dental chair ready for oral surgery

Common colds are typically not serious, but you may want to confirm whether you can still have a planned oral surgery if you have a cold. Here is what you need to know about having oral surgery when you have a cold.

When It Is Unsafe to Have Oral Surgery With a Cold?

It is unsafe to have oral surgery when you have a cold and if your symptoms are beyond the usual stuffy or runny nose. Specifically, if you are unable to breathe freely through your nose, your oral surgeon can suggest that you reschedule your procedure for later after you have recovered from your cold.

If you are also coughing as a result of a cold, your oral surgeon might have to reschedule. Coughing can complicate the matter because you cannot cover your mouth during the procedure. However, please remember that your health is our priority, and we are always ready to accommodate your needs.

General Anesthesia When You Have a Cold

It is important to note that general anesthesia can exacerbate the irritation in your airways, potentially worsening your cough. This persistent coughing can also impact your post-surgery recovery, especially if your procedure involves repairing a misaligned or broken jaw. The pressure from coughing can hinder normal healing, making it crucial to consider the severity of your cold symptoms before proceeding with oral surgery.

How to Stay Healthy Before Your Oral Surgery

It is always a good idea to take deliberate measures to improve and maintain your health at all times. It is especially more significant when you are scheduled for an oral surgery procedure. Here are a few ways you can avoid catching a cold before your appointment date: Increase your vitamin C intake, stay hydrated, and wash your hands.

While it is possible to proceed with oral surgery if you have a cold, it is crucial to have a discussion with your oral surgeon. This is particularly important if your symptoms are severe, as they can provide the best advice for your specific situation.

About
Dr. Cynthia Colson

Dr. Colson grew up in the Metro area, attending Camelback High School and ASU. She graduated from the University of Kentucky Dental School and completed her residency at Long Island Jewish Hospital in Long Island, New York. She also attended an anesthesia fellowship program at the University of Illinois at Chicago and has traveled with Healing The Children, a non-profit organization, to Bucarumanga Columbia treating patients with cleft lip and palate deformities.
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What our patients are saying about us

"Dr. Colson is amazing! She explained everything thoroughly without sounding condescending and gently but directly guides you through the whole procedure. She is excellent and super experienced. I got my wisdom teeth pulled (3 partially impacted and one simply extracted) and aside from asking too many questions under laughing gas before the general anesthesia knocked me out, I got no complications and have had essentially no pain at all." – Ana D.

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Office hours

Mon - Thur: 8am to 5:00pm
Friday: 8am to 2:00pm

Location

3303 S. Lindsay Rd.
Suite 112
Gilbert, AZ 85297

Contact

Office: (480) 604-2592

Connect

Santanxray@gmail.com

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If you have recently been told you need oral surgery, you have come to the right place. Call San Tan Oral Surgery to schedule your initial consultation today!
San Tan Oral Surgery, 3303 S. Lindsay Rd. Suite 112, Gilbert, AZ 85297-2100 | (480) 604-2592 | santanoralsurgery.com | 4/10/2026 | Related Phrases: Dental Implants Gilbert AZ |