Each of our patients fills out a health history to keep on file in our office. Often times patients do not disclose everything on these forms because they do not understand the significance. So, we want to set the record straight! Here are some things to consider while updating your health history at your next dental visit:

Did you know that sometimes diabetes first presents itself inside the mouth? Often times an expected and quick onset of gingivitis or periodontal disease can indicate to your dentist and hygienist that you may be diabetic. Dental professionals will then advise patients in this situation to see their medical doctor and have blood drawn to find out if they may be diabetic or not.

Artificial joints and certain heart conditions may require a patient to take an antibiotic prior to dental work in order to avoid an infection called ‘bacteremia’. Bacteremia can be caused by a disruption of normal oral bacteria being released into the blood and can cause complications in artificial joints or compromised cardiac health. Taking an antibiotic one hour prior to dental work prevents infection.

Vitamin deficiency can present in many ways inside the oral cavity as well. Angular Cheilitis can indicate a lack of Vitamin B in a patients diet. This presents as painful, dry cracking at the corners of the mouth. Lack of iron can cause a burning sensation on your tongue. Vitamin K aids in clotting and aids in faster healing.

Some herbal supplements can even interfere with dental anesthetics. The calming supplement called ‘Kava’ can strengthen the effects of a dental anesthetic.

So, before you leave any information out, think about what you may be risking. Providing a complete health history to your dental provider plays a critical role in allowing them to provide you with comprehensive, risk free dental care.

Did you know that licensed dental professionals must continue their education throughout their entire career? Dentists, Dental Hygienists and Dental Assistants attend many courses to stay current on the latest trends in Dentistry. These classes consist of many topics like: pharmacology, oral cancer, gum disease, smoking cessation,  the newest dental technologies and radiography. Aside from these elective topics, we are required to be certified in CPR training and infection control (OSHA). Participating in these classes ensures that our patients receive quality care that is up to date with the leading technology!

We are proudly hosting our fourth annual food drive! Stop into the office during the month of November and donate non perishable food items and be entered to win this great gift basket. The basket includes: Sonicare toothbrush, oral hygiene products, free custom whitening trays, a Carrabbas gift card and movie passes. Each day you donate will allow for one entry slip per day, with a limit of one per day. You may donate multiple times throughout the month for more than one entry!

The need for food in our communities is greater than is has been in many years. Many of those who have donated in previous years are now relying on receiving donations themselves  to feed their family. 50% of children in Milwaukee go to bed hungry every night. It is donations from people like us that can help change these statistics! Thank you to the Hunger Task Force for allowing us to reach out to those who need it most.