Many people worry about visiting the dentist during Ramadan. With water sprays, rinsing, and possible bleeding, it is natural to ask: Will this break my fast?
The simple answer is: yes, you can have dental treatment while fasting, as long as you do not swallow anything.
Does dental treatment break the fast?
Dental procedures such as fillings, extractions, scaling, root canal treatment, or even injections of local anaesthetic do not break the fast in themselves. What matters is whether anything reaches the stomach deliberately.
If you are careful and do not swallow water, blood, or any dental materials, your fast remains valid.
Dentists are used to treating fasting patients. You can inform them beforehand so they take extra care with suction and rinsing.
What if you accidentally swallow something?
If something is swallowed unintentionally despite taking reasonable care, the general ruling is:
-
Your fast is broken.
-
You must continue the rest of the day as if you are fasting, out of respect for Ramadan.
-
You must make up that fast (qada) after Ramadan.
There is no kaffarah (major expiation) required in this case, only making up the day.
What about blood?
Small amounts of blood in the mouth do not break the fast unless you swallow it. If the taste of blood is present, you should rinse carefully and avoid swallowing.
Is it better to delay treatment?
If the procedure is non-urgent and you are worried, you may choose to delay it until after iftar. However, if treatment is necessary, painful, or urgent, it is completely permissible to attend your appointment while fasting.
Islam does not intend hardship. It encourages health and cleanliness, including oral care.
-
Tell your dentist you are fasting.
-
Request strong suction to minimise fluid.
-
Avoid unnecessary rinsing.
-
Spit thoroughly and do not swallow.