When you visit a dentist, especially for the first time, you’ll typically be asked to fill out a comprehensive medical questionnaire. Make sure you write down all the allergies you have. You should realize that some dental products contain food ingredients that can potentially cause allergic reactions.
These ingredients may include food allergens such as egg protein, milk protein, peanuts, and pine nuts. Here’s a look at some common allergies that your dentist should know about.
Sensitivity to Non-precious Metals
Some dental crowns and prostheses are made from non-precious metals such as nickel and copper. If you are sensitive to these kinds of metals, be sure to notify your dentist. Your dentist may then opt for dental accessories made from precious metals, which usually are well tolerated by the body.
While allergic reactions to amalgam dental fillings are not common, you may still experience a localized reaction on the skin that is in contact with the amalgam. Therefore, inform your dentist of any unusual feelings after the dental fillings procedure.
Latex Allergy
Most rubber products are composed of latex, including many items used in the medical industry such as examination gloves. When exposed to latex, some people may experience some severe allergic reactions, such as:
- Itching at the area of contact
- Tightening of the throat
- Hives
- Breathing difficulties
- Wheezing
- Anaphylaxis
You’ll generally experience such allergic reactions if your dentist is wearing latex examination gloves. Therefore, it’s essential to inform your dentist about your latex allergy beforehand.
Contact Dermatitis
Certain items and chemicals used in dental work can potentially cause contact dermatitis on your gums, lips, or face. For example, dental amalgam contains ingredients that can cause swelling, irritation, or redness of the gums. Mouthwashes and toothpaste contain flavorings that can result in itchy rashes around the lips or in the mouth.
Dental dams that contain rubber compounds can also cause contact dermatitis around your mouth. Therefore, it’s important to let your dentist know if you’re prone to contact dermatitis.
Antibiotics Allergy
Your dentist will usually prescribe you antibiotics such as sulfonamides and penicillin if your tooth is aching. This is especially true if you are set to undergo root canal therapy. You may also be required to take antibiotics immediately after having a tooth extraction.
This may not be a good idea if you are allergic to antibiotics. Hence, don’t hesitate to remind your dentist about your allergy if they prescribe these drugs.
Local Anesthetic Allergy
Many people develop severe reactions to local anesthetics. It is worth noting that some of the reactions aren’t actually a result of an allergy. Some are caused by hyperventilation and anxiety.
Nonetheless, methylparaben is known to trigger allergic reactions to local anesthetics. Methylparaben is a preservative that’s typically added to local anesthetics. So, if you are prone to allergic reactions, let your dentist know before you undergo any procedure that requires the use of local anesthesia.
These are some of the allergies that your dentist should know about. It’s also important to inform your dentist if you start experiencing any signs of an allergic reaction during or after treatment.
