How Your Allergies Affect Your Time At The Dental Office

When you have one of your first conversations with your dentist, you will want to bring up anything that you are allergic to because there are surprisingly materials used by the dentist that can trigger allergic reactions in some patients. Also, if you do not already know what you are allergic to, make sure you are tested for allergies.

Acrylics

Acrylic is a substance that some patients are allergic to. This can be problematic if you are getting crowns, veneers or implants. Fortunately, there are alternatives to acrylic that your dentist can use. If you are allergic to acrylic, you can experience skin irritation.

Latex

Latex is used in quite a few medical contexts including dentistry. Fortunately, synthetic latex does not cause harmful allergic reactions the way that rubber-based latex can. The allergic reaction can be mild and cause mild itching. It can also cause burning, scaling or lesions. On rare conditions, you might experience hives and severe itching.

Gluten

Polishing pastes contain gluten, which can contribute to gastrointestinal disorders. Fluoride also can contain gluten. Also, if you suffer from an allergic reaction to gluten, you will want to use toothpaste that is fluoride-free. Make sure your water is fluoride-free by using filters and purchasing bottled water that doesn't contain fluoride.

Eggs

If you are allergic to eggs, you may have an allergic reaction to propofol because this substance contains the protein found in eggs. Also, since nitrous oxide has a chemical structure that is similar to eggs, some patients allergic to nitrous oxide have had an allergic reaction.

Anesthetics

Local anesthetic reactions are a relatively common allergic reaction. For instance, epinephrine, which is used to prolong the length at which an anesthetic will work, can cause anxiety and a heightened heart rate. Fortunately, not all anesthetics include it.

Cements

The cements used to hold dental work in place can contain eugenol. This ingredient can cause inflammation and tissue damage if you are allergic to it. Luckily, not all of the cements used in dentistry contain this ingredient, so ask your dentist if you can use an alternative cement.

Porcelain and Dental Amalgams

The dental amalgam and porcelain can cause contact dermatitis. This can cause a rash or swelling around the area that is exposed to these ingredients. Fortunately, your dentist has been trained on how to respond to these types of allergies by providing you with alternative treatments that will not produce the same allergic reaction.  

For more information, contact Pacific Ave Dental/Allan L. Hablutzel, DDS or a similar location.


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