Pneumonia (current / recent)

Pneumonia is infection of the lung parenchyma (viral, bacterial, atypical). Dental relevance: active or recent pneumonia raises the risk of hypoxemia, respiratory decompensation, and sedation-related complications. Elective dental care should usually wait until the patient is BOTH clinically stable AND clinically recovered — afebrile, symptoms substantially resolved, and back to their own baseline oxygenation and breathing. Note: hospital 'clinical-stability' criteria (including SpO₂ ≥90% on room air) mark readiness to switch to oral antibiotics or discharge — they are NOT proof of full recovery. Symptom resolution (cough, dyspnea, fatigue) usually takes about 2–4 weeks, and longer in older or comorbid patients. Dental professionals should not prescribe antibiotics for the pneumonia itself.