I have an upcoming dental appointment but I haven’t been feeling great. I’ve been coughing and my nose is running but I don’t have a fever. I keep hearing about flu season but I’m not sure if I have the flu or should cancel my appointment. I have a dental appointment in a few days but have been coughing and my nose is running. I don’t think I have a fever but with all of the reports of the flu in the news, I’m thinking that I should cancel my appointment. I’m also not sure if I will be charged for the missing appointment. What should I do?
– Paul in Louisiana
Dear Paul,
It’s not always obvious how infectious you are to others. Also, it’s hard to know if you have the flu or a cold early on with your symptoms. The best thing you can do is take your temperature and monitor it over the next few days.
Since you are suffering from flu-like symptoms, it’s recommended that you reschedule your appointment. The flu, or influenza, is spread from an infected person through small particles released into the air when you sneeze or cough; even talking may release small particles into the air. A single sneeze may infect numerous people. Not only can you infect other patients, but you can also spread the infection to the dental staff. Dental professionals work in direct contact with fluids in the mouth so if you’re infected, they may get the virus. Although they engage in frequent hand-washing and barriers such as: gloves, masks and eyewear to protect themselves from infectious diseases, these are not foolproof.
Be sure to phone the dental office and explain why you need to reschedule. Some offices appreciate that you’re considering their health and the health of other patients and will waive the fee if you’re not a frequent offender.
For more information about Baton Rouge Family Dentist, visit Dr. Perry’s site.