Why Is Health History So Important?
When you visit the dentist, whether it’s your first visit or you’re a returning patient, it’s essential to provide a full account of your health history. Why are we so insistent? There are some excellent reasons for this policy. We are here to help your teeth and oral health, but we are also concerned with your overall well-being. By learning about what you are going through, we can get a clearer picture of possible issues that will affect your dentistry.
New Diagnoses
Be sure to tell us about any new conditions or concerns that have come to light. We may choose to change treatment plans or schedule cleanings with more frequency.
If you receive a cancer diagnosis, are undergoing chemotherapy, or have other conditions that will affect your immune system, please let us know.
If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, your oral health should be one of your top priorities, as hormone changes can affect oral health.
New Prescriptions
Furthermore, new prescriptions are also a vital aspect of your health history to report to your dental team. Medicine can have repercussions for your dental health, some more severe than others. Many medications can impact saliva production, resulting in dry mouth. This condition, in turn, leads to increased risk of cavities and tooth decay.
Changes In Oral Health
If you have any unexplained sores, lesions, or discoloration that seems to persist, you should immediately report these conditions to the dentist. In a worst-case scenario, it may be a sign of oral cancer, however other benign conditions are a possibility, so no need to panic unnecessarily. Instead, schedule an appointment to uncover the facts.
Painful or bleeding gums when brushing or flossing is a sign of periodontal disease. We must address the problem as early as possible. Periodontal disease, when left untreated, can lead to cavities, bad breath (halitosis), and eventually, tooth loss. Don’t wait for the problem to get worse, discuss these, and any problem with your trusted dental team!
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