Any condition that affects your body can also affect your mouth. That is why your dentist needs to know your medical information. There is no need to worry about other people finding out about your medical information. Dentists are required to keep this information private. Below is a list of some of the specific information that your dentist needs to know about you:
Any Medications You Are Taking
Your dentist needs to know about any medications that you are taking. This includes inhalers. Certain medications can cause dry mouth. Dry mouth is a condition that can increase the risk of cavities and bad breath. The more medications you take, the more likely you are to develop dry mouth.
If you have an infection in your mouth, then your dentist will likely prescribe an antibiotic. Antibiotics can decrease the effectiveness of certain medications, including birth control pills.
Your Diet
Your dentist will likely want to know about your dietary habits. If you follow a diet that is high in refined carbohydrates or sugar, then you are at a greater risk for tooth decay. Sugar feeds bacteria. You are likely to suffer vitamin and mineral deficiencies if you follow a restricted diet. Nutritional deficiencies can put you at risk for dental problems.
Any Medical Conditions That You Have
If you have any medical condition, then you will need to inform your physician of this. Gum disease has been linked to many health conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease. Dentists also have to take a patient’s overall health into consideration before they administer any anesthetic. Additionally, you should let your dentist if you are allergic to any medication.
Hemophilia is a condition where a person’s blood is unable to clot properly. This condition can make a simple dental procedure more risky. People who have hemophilia will also have a harder time healing after a dental procedure. You definitely want to let your dentist know if you have hemophilia.
Your Family History
If a medical condition runs in your family, then you need to let your dentist know about this. Having a family history of a certain condition can put you at risk for it. Additionally, if dental problems run in your family, then you are at a greater risk for developing them.
If You Have Mouth Sores That Do Not Heal
Mouth sores are common. They are not always a cause for concern. However, if you have a mouth sore that does not heal, then you want to make sure that you tell your dentist about this. It is a good idea to consult with your dentist if the sore has not healed within three weeks.
In some cases, a mouth sore can be the first sign of oral cancer. Dentists are often the first ones to diagnose oral cancer. The number of people being diagnosed with oral cancer is on the rise. The good news is that there are a number of treatment options available for oral cancer it is diagnosed early.