Why does the dentist need to know all about my child's medical history?

Dentists are doctors too :P

The mouth is the gateway to the rest of the body. It’s no surprise that sometimes dentists will be the first health care providers to bring attention to a medical condition.

When it comes to revealing the medical history of your child, there is no such thing as too much information. Let the dentist decide if the medical information you provide is relevant to the child’s oral care. 

Let’s talk about some of the most common medical conditions that can affect the oral cavity -

• ASTHMA - Inhalers contain corticosteroids which are acidic medications. The use of inhalers causes the pH in the mouth to drop, thus causing dry mouth and creating a friendly environment for bacteria to cause cavities.

• ACID REFLUX - This increases acidic erosion of teeth and can cause increased sensitivity while putting the teeth at high risk for cavities.

• TYPE I DIABETES - Commonly diagnosed between the ages of 7-14 years, hypoglycemia or low blood sugar is one of the most common medical emergencies in the dental office. Also, diabetics are at higher risk for all kinds of oral infections.

• EPILEPSY - This is also a common medical emergency in dental offices. It can be triggered by sudden movements of the dental chair or the sudden movement of the overhead light. The dental team can take precautions to ensure an uneventful visit for patients at risk for seizures.

• ENLARGED TONSILS - These are also common in kids and can be the cause of sleep apnea. Often sleep apnea leads to behavioral problems and can be misdiagnosed as Attention Deficit Disorder or ADD.

• ALLERGIES - Children and adults suffering from seasonal allergies are prone to mouth breathing. This can lead to bad breath and dry mouth, hence putting these patients at high risk for cavities.

Another important thing to remember is that any medication your dentist prescribes can interact with the medications your child is on. This includes any over-the-counter medications and alternative medicinal products.

If your child’s medical history is significant, the dentist will tailor the delivery of dental care to his/her needs. Remember, dentists are trained medical professionals and after all, the mouth is not divorced from the body.

A sound body and a sound mouth keeps a sound mind!