When you visit your dentist for a routine checkup, it’s easy to think the appointment is only about cleaning your teeth and checking for cavities. But your oral health is closely connected to your overall well-being, and the more your dentist knows about your medical history, lifestyle, and health changes, the better care they can provide. Discussing certain health factors can help your dentist spot early signs of problems, tailor your treatment, and even prevent complications down the road. Here are 5 important health factors you should bring up at your next dental checkup.
1. Changes in Medications
If you’ve started, stopped, or changed any prescription or over-the-counter medications since your last visit, let your dentist know. Many medications can affect your oral health. For example, antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications can cause dry mouth, which increases your risk of cavities and gum disease. Blood thinners can impact how your dentist manages extractions or other procedures.
Bringing an updated list of your medications helps your dental team plan treatments safely and prevent unwanted side effects.
2. Health Conditions and Diagnoses
Your dentist should be aware of any new or ongoing medical conditions, even if they seem unrelated to your mouth. Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, autoimmune disorders, and osteoporosis can have a direct impact on your oral health.
For instance, people with diabetes are more prone to gum disease and infections, while certain heart conditions may require antibiotics before dental procedures. Likewise, osteoporosis medications can affect how your jawbone responds to dental implants or extractions. Keeping your dentist informed ensures your care plan aligns with your overall health needs.
3. Pregnancy or Hormonal Changes
If you’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or experiencing hormonal changes such as menopause, it’s important to tell your dentist. Pregnancy hormones can increase the risk of gum inflammation and bleeding, known as pregnancy gingivitis. Your dentist can recommend gentler cleaning techniques and schedule extra checkups if needed.
Similarly, menopause and hormone therapy can cause dry mouth and bone density changes that affect oral health. Your dentist can suggest products or treatments to keep your mouth comfortable and healthy.
4. Lifestyle and Dietary Habits
Your daily habits play a big role in oral health. Be honest with your dentist about lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol consumption, or high-sugar diets. These habits can increase your risk for gum disease, oral cancer, and enamel erosion.
Your dentist isn’t there to judge—they’re there to help. They can offer personalized guidance, such as quitting-smoking support, fluoride treatments, or dietary tips to strengthen your teeth and gums.
5. Jaw Pain, Grinding, or Sleep Issues
If you’ve noticed jaw discomfort, headaches, or tooth wear, you may be grinding your teeth at night—a condition called bruxism. Likewise, if you snore heavily or feel tired despite sleeping, it could signal sleep apnea, which dentists can help detect and manage. Sharing these symptoms allows your dentist to recommend custom mouthguards or refer you for further evaluation.
Your dentist is a vital part of your healthcare team. By sharing updates about your medications, health conditions, and lifestyle, you empower them to protect your smile and overall health more effectively. A dental checkup is about more than your teeth—it’s about caring for you as a whole. The more your dentist knows, the healthier and happier your smile will be.
About the Author
Dr. Jeffrey Neal earned his dental degree from the Medical College of Virginia School of Dentistry. Since graduating, he has completed over 200 hours of continuing education nearly every year, as well as finishing 3 postgraduate residency programs. Dr. Neal also stays current through his memberships in the American Dental Association, the Virginia Dental Association, and the Richmond Dental Society. If it’s been 6 months or more since your last checkup, schedule an appointment online or call our Henrico office at (804) 447-1435.