Your oral health doesn't exist in isolation. Numerous medical conditions directly impact your teeth and gums, while dental treatments can affect existing health conditions. Understanding your complete health picture allows your dental team to provide the safest, most effective care tailored to your specific needs.
Medical Conditions That Affect Dental Care
- Diabetes affects healing, increases infection risk, and makes gum disease more likely and more challenging to treat.
- Certain heart conditions may require antibiotic premedication before dental procedures to prevent serious infections.
- Blood disorders affect clotting and require special precautions during any procedure involving bleeding.
- Autoimmune diseases can increase infection risk and affect how your body responds to treatment.
- Pregnancy can increase the risk of gum disease and affect timing and treatment options for certain procedures.
Why Your Medications Matter
Many common medications directly impact dental treatment:
- Blood thinners require careful planning for extractions or surgical procedures to prevent excessive bleeding.
- Bisphosphonates used to treat osteoporosis can affect jawbone healing and may require modified treatment approaches.
- Medications that cause diabetes, such as antihistamines, blood pressure medications, and many others, reduce saliva flow, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Steroids affect healing and immune response, requiring adjusted treatment protocols.
Keep Us Updated on Your Health Status
Please inform West Creek Dental of any changes to your health status or medications, even between appointments. Contact us today to schedule your next visit with your trusted dentist in South Austin. Our team is here to provide safe, effective care that considers your overall well-being.