Going to the Dentist With Food Allergies (original) (raw)
Of all the times I or any family member went to the dentist, not once did I ever worry about our safety or well-being. Sure, there’s a natural aversion by many when it comes to dentists. It’s not what I would label as fun or something I look forward to, but never did I look at it as a potentially life-threatening activity. That all changed when my oldest child was diagnosed with anaphylactic food allergies.
A Potential Allergic Reaction at the Dentist
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with food allergies, you know that an allergic reaction can happen from the allergen entering the eyes, nose, or mouth. Wait! A dentist or hygienist is now going to put their hands, tools, and products into my loved one’s mouth. So now what?
Potential Concerns for Those With Food Allergies Visiting the Dentist
Yes, you will have to take some precautions, but it is doable! Some questions that you may have prior to your dental visit:
- What did the dentist or hygienist eat for breakfast or lunch today? Were they holding and subsequently eating my child’s allergens?
- What other individuals came in here and had their mouth on or near any of these same tools?
- How are these tools sanitized?
- What are the ingredients in the cleaning paste, fluoride treatment, or other products being used?
8 Tips for an Allergy-Friendly Dental Visit
These concerns and other questions are fantastic and will lay the foundation for taking proactive measures so that you and your child can have an allergy-friendly experience!
- Bring all prescribed medications, including your epinephrine auto-injectors.
- Consider giving your dentist a copy of your allergist’s management plan.
- Contact the dentist ahead of time and ask them if they are familiar with food allergies and anaphylaxis.
- Ask the dental provider if they have food allergy guidelines in place for their practice, and if so, what safety measures they employ.
- Communicate upon scheduling what your food allergies are, as well as what other names they may be listed as, especially if you manage allergies outside the top 9.
- Most dental offices will contact you closer to your visit to confirm your appointment. This is a good time to call or email confirmation with a gentle reminder of your child’s allergens.
- Upon arrival, another gentle reminder, for example, “Good morning, I’m here to check in for my son, and just a reminder, he has several food allergies.”
- When the dentist or hygienist has the child sit down for their cleaning, it’s a great opportunity to double-check that the food allergens are noted on their patient chart, and ask if you can check the label on any products being used. Typically, this includes the paste for cleaning and oftentimes a fluoride treatment. Every dentist is different, so always ask about all products being used.
You Got This!
The health of your loved one is top priority, and that includes their whole self. Routine dental visits are important and while at first glance can feel intimidating for those with food allergies, it is doable. Take one step at a time, confidently ask questions, maintain open communication, and remember to take a deep breath. You got this!
Join us on our Food Allergy Support Community page on Facebook.
Photo Credit: iStock / Getty Images
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