Discussing Your Allergies with the Dentist

Allergies can be a minor annoyance, or they can be life-threatening. If you have allergies, you probably spend a lot of time avoiding allergens at the grocery, when out with friends, or at school and work. You might not realize it, but you also need to be aware of potential allergens at the dentist office.

Some common hidden allergens that can appear in dentistry include:

• Gluten, which can be used in polishing agents• Metals, which are used in fillings, crowns, and other restorations• Acrylic, which can be used to make temporary restorations such as crowns, implants, and veneers• Latex, which is used in prophy angles and gloves• Epinephrine, which is used in dental anesthetics• Eugenol, which is used in dental cement

If you have an allergy or sensitivity to any of these ingredients, you do not have to avoid care. Just let us know at your next checkup or appointment, and we can use allergen-free alternatives. We have a variety of options and alternatives available to use and will find the best solution for your needs. Gluten-free polishing agents, all-porcelain restorations, latex-free gloves and prophy angles, epinephrine-free anesthetics, and other alternatives are available. If you do not typically have allergies but experience an allergic reaction or sensitivity after leaving our office, let us know right away so that we can try to identify the source of the problem and prevent a future recurrence.

Allergies should not keep you from getting the dental care you need. With the proper precautions, dentistry can be safe for everyone. Call our office today to schedule your appointment.