Helpful Healing: 4 Things to Disclose to Your Dentist

Have you ever arrived for a dental checkup only to wonder why your dentist asked about your medical history? Many patients don’t understand why they need to know and may withhold certain information as a result. The truth is that your overall health impacts your dental well-being and your dentist is simply trying to care for you to the best of their ability. When they have a comprehensive understanding of your condition, they can more accurately diagnose issues and provide safe treatments.

If you’re not sure what kind of information it’s important to share, keep reading to learn about 4 things you should disclose during your next checkup!

#1: Current Medications or Supplements

Your dentist will inquire about any prescriptions, vitamins, or other supplements that you take regularly as part of your history. This is because the medications you’re on can influence your oral health. For example, some can cause dry mouth which leaves you at an increased risk of developing gum disease. If they know it’s a potential issue, they’ll be better able to identify early signs so they can work with you to resolve it before it progresses.

#2: High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is the most common chronic heart problem and is also connected to your oral health. You may already have noticed that your dentist takes your blood pressure at each appointment, even routine checkups, to monitor your safety. They need to be aware if you are hypertensive because some issues, like gum disease, can raise your blood pressure further or make certain medications less effective. They’ll also ensure that your blood pressure is within a safe range before starting any procedure, especially if sedatives are involved.

#3: Diabetes

Diabetes is another disorder you should let your dentist know about. It can impact your eyes, heart, kidneys, and immune system in addition to your oral well-being. For example, many diabetic patients also develop periodontitis, the most advanced stage of gum disease, because their body is less able to fight the infection. Your dentist can better preserve your smile if they know you’ve been diagnosed with this and how you’re doing on your current prescriptions.

#4: Other Life Changes

Other factors impact your medical status that you need to share with your dentist, too. For example, if you’ve recently become pregnant, developed a new allergy, or started smoking cigarettes then they need to be aware. They don’t want to recommend a treatment or prescribe a drug that would interfere with or harm you in any capacity.

Now that you know the kinds of details they need, you can provide your dentist with a full medical history so they can keep your mouth healthy without putting anything else at risk!

About the Practice

At Scotch Plains Fanwood Dental Care, you and the whole family benefit from a team of dental experts who offer a full array of services under one roof. They prefer a more personalized approach and take their time to get to know you, your medical history, and your dental concerns and goals. This helps them provide fully individualized treatment plans to keep your teeth and gums in excellent health. They’re experienced in working with people of all ages so no matter what your current condition is, they can help. If you’d like to schedule your next checkup, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (908) 322-3222.