How to Handle Sick Patients in the Dental Office

Hello Dental Professionals,

Cold and flu season always brings up the same question in dental offices: What do we do when a patient shows up sick? Balancing patient care with team safety can be tricky, but having a clear, consistent plan keeps stress down and confidence up.

Why It Matters

Sick patients aren’t just uncomfortable in the chair—they can put your team and other patients at risk. Respiratory viruses, flu, and other contagious illnesses spread quickly in healthcare settings, especially when aerosols are involved. Protecting your team means protecting your patients, too.

Best Practices for Handling Sick Patients

• Have a Policy – Make sure your office policy clearly outlines what to do when a sick patient arrives.
• Screen in Advance – Ask about symptoms when confirming appointments or when they arrive. 
• Use Standard Precautions – PPE is non-negotiable: masks, gloves, eyewear, and proper ventilation matter most here.
• Offer Alternatives – If appropriate, reschedule or use teledentistry for non-urgent cases.
• Communicate Kindly – Patients appreciate honesty. Frame rescheduling as protecting them as much as your team.

🎙️ Want More?

I recently sat down with Kevin Henry on the Dental Assistant Nation podcast to dive deeper into this exact topic. We talked about practical strategies every dental assistant (and team) can use to navigate sick patients with confidence.

👉 Listen here: Episode 398 – How to Handle Sick Patients: What Every Dental Assistant Needs to Know

The Bottom Line

Handling sick patients isn’t about panic—it’s about preparation. With clear protocols, strong communication, and team buy-in, you can keep everyone safe while keeping your office running smoothly.

Until next time—stay safe, stay compliant, and keep smiling!

Joyce Weeks, B.S., M.Sc.
Owner & Lead Educator | Dental Ed, Inc.
📧 [email protected] | 📞 760-930-9401