Your Medical History: The Secret To Safer Dental Visits

We’ve previously covered one of the most common questions I hear, “Why do I need to make an appointment?”

Today, let's tackle another frequently asked question.

When you visit us at Smile Designers, you might wonder why we ask about your overall health when you're here for your teeth. Some patients look puzzled and wonder, “Why do you need all my medical history?”.

That's another fantastic question! It might seem unrelated, but your oral health is closely linked to your general health, so let’s dive into the deets!

How Medical Conditions Affect Your Oral Health

Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and sleep apnea can significantly influence your oral health. They might alter how your body responds to oral bacteria, affect healing after dental procedures, or change how we approach your treatment. Understanding your medical conditions enables us to tailor your dental care to you.

Why Your Medications Matter

Medications, even those seemingly unrelated to your teeth, can impact your mouth. Some medications cause dry mouth, increasing the risk of cavities. Others can slow healing or increase bleeding during procedures. Keeping us updated about all your current medications, including over-the-counter products and supplements, ensures that your dental visit goes smoothly.

Remember to inform us if you stop or switch medications!

Allergies Can be Life-Threatening

Allergies to substances such as latex, penicillin, anesthetics, or other medications can affect your dental treatment. Not disclosing your allergies can lead to severe, potentially life-threatening reactions. Knowing about your allergies helps us choose the safest materials and medications, keeping you comfortable and protected throughout your dental visit.

Pregnancy and Your Baby's Safety

If you're pregnant or think you might be pregnant, please let us know. Pregnancy requires special considerations to ensure the safety of both you and your baby. Hormonal changes can also affect your gums, making regular cleanings even more crucial. Dr. Budhai has a detailed blog on how gum disease impacts your whole body, including during pregnancy. Be sure to check it out!

Recent Surgeries

Have you recently had surgery? Even procedures seemingly unrelated to dental care can affect your oral health. Certain surgeries, such as heart valve replacements or joint replacements, may require antibiotics to be taken an hour before dental visits to prevent infections. Understanding your surgical history helps us plan your dental visit and save you time while keeping you safe!

Your Health Helps Us Help You

At Smile Designers, we believe that achieving a healthy smile starts with understanding you, completely. So the next time we ask about your medical history, remember that we aren’t just being thorough; we're looking out for your well-being and want to provide you with the best dental care possible.

About the Blogger

Ms. Sarah Uddin

Administrative Coordinator/ Manager

Sarah is a key decision maker at Smile Designers, known for her warmth and positivity. Since 2019, she has focused on improving patient experiences through education and compassion. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, caring for her cats, watching anime, and reading.

"I honestly never thought I would get into this field, but it was a good choice. I hope to grow further, continue learning, and do my best to ensure that you have the best experience with us."