If a patient has questions for the dentist, it may help to write them down and bring the list to the dental office. This helps patients remember everything they intended to ask, especially if they are nervous, distracted or the dental office is very busy.

It is important to discuss certain items with a dentist before a dental examination. This includes the patient’s complete medical and dental history, which involves informing the dentist about the following:

• Current symptoms
• Recent trauma to the teeth or mouth
• Any history of tooth grinding (bruxism)
• Current medications, including recent changes
• Tobacco and alcohol use
• Recent surgeries or illnesses
• Current medical conditions (e.g., asthma, diabetes)
• Family history of conditions or diseases
• Allergies
• Pregnancy, or the possibility of being pregnant

Patients with certain medical conditions may need to take medications such as antibiotics before and/or after a dental examination or cleaning. These conditions include heart murmurs and artificially implanted joints. Any bleeding that may occur during the examination may allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, and people with these conditions are more susceptible to bacterial infections in the affected areas. Antibiotics can kill the bacteria before they cause damage.

Other items that may be discussed prior to a dental examination include:

• Dental anxiety. Many patients fear visits to their dentist. These feelings may be alleviated by sharing them with the dentist. Fear of possible pain associated with dental care may be lessened by knowing exactly how the dentist can reduce or manage a patient’s pain. Fear of having a particular disease or illness may be alleviated by having the dentist specifically look for signs of that condition. Even the act of sharing the feelings may make patients feel better. Some patients may need anti-anxiety medications. Parents should be especially careful not to transmit anxiety they may feel to children they accompany to the dentist’s office.
  
  
• Sensitive gag reflex. Patients with a sensitive gag reflex should inform their dentist. Certain accommodations (such as avoiding touching the sensitive area near the back of the throat) may be made that can make the dental examination more pleasant.