4 Important Things to Discuss at Your Next Dental Appointment

When you visit your dentist for your regular dental exam and cleaning, you’re probably already prepared to talk teeth. After all, that’s what you’re there for. But what you may not realize is that your dentist isn’t just interested in your oral health. He wants to ensure that your entire body is in great shape, too. Here’s why it’s so important to discuss not just the state of your teeth and gums, but these important total body details, too!

Medical History

Your medical history may not seem connected to your oral health, but it very often can be. Things like the medications you take and even hormonal changes like menopause or pregnancy can affect your saliva production and increase your risk of gum disease and cavities. Furthermore, conditions like allergies, sleep apnea, snoring, jaw pain, and even high blood pressure or diabetes can also affect your mouth, so even if you don’t think it’s important to share, it could help your dentist help you improve your smile!

Mental Health Concerns

Whether you suffer from depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues, these can often impact your oral health. Patients who struggle with daily tasks like brushing and flossing are at a higher risk of cavities and gum disease, and those with stressful lifestyles may be more likely to grind their teeth, which can cause an increase in jaw pain and even excess tooth wear and breakage.

Aches & Pains

Do you experience any persistent aches and pains? Even if they don’t originate in your teeth, they could still be related to your oral health. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can cause pain and stiffness that radiates from the jaw throughout the upper body, and may appear in the form of neck, shoulder, and back pain, as well as migraine headaches, and even tinnitus (ear ringing).

Dental Fears & Anxieties

Are you afraid of the dentist, or does the idea of oral health treatment give you anxiety? Let your dentist know in advance, as he may have ways to help make your visit more comfortable, such as taking frequent breaks, a special signal you can make if you’re worried, or even explaining in detail what he’s about to do so you’re never left scared or anxious about what’s coming next.

Remember, while your dentist is your number one ally when protecting your oral health, you can do your part to make his job easier (and your smile healthier!) by sharing these important details about your oral, mental, and overall health at your next appointment.

About Dr. Seredynski

Dr. Jeffrey Seredynski is passionate about protecting his patients’ smiles! He earned his undergraduate and master’s degrees at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree at the Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine-Illinois. To schedule your next dental checkup and cleaning at Arlington Smiles Dental Studio, visit our website or call us today at 847-392-2141.