{"id":14975,"date":"2026-06-22T07:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-06-22T07:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.westgatedentalcare.net\/blog\/2026\/06\/22\/dental-checkup-health-concerns-to-bring-up\/"},"modified":"2026-06-22T07:00:00","modified_gmt":"2026-06-22T07:00:00","slug":"dental-checkup-health-concerns-to-bring-up","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.westgatedentalcare.net\/blog\/2026\/06\/22\/dental-checkup-health-concerns-to-bring-up\/","title":{"rendered":"3 Health Factors to Share with Your Dentist at Your Next Checkup"},"content":{"rendered":"
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\"female<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Dental checkups<\/a> are about more than just your oral health. While your dentist examines your smile for any signs of cavities, decay, gum disease, infection, and damage, they also want to learn about your medical history and overall wellness. It might seem as if this information isn\u2019t necessary, but the truth is that there is a close connection between the mouth and body. When preparing for your next visit, consider sharing these three health factors with your dentist.<\/p><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

New Medications<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of why you are taking new medications, it is essential to inform your dentist. This helps them better understand why certain things may be happening to your teeth and gums. For example, if you complain of a dry mouth, your medications may be contributing to the problem. Without proper treatment, you can develop cavities, enamel erosion, and gum disease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even if you are unable to change the type of medication you are taking, you and your dentist can discuss ways to minimize the effects and keep your mouth healthy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jaw Pain & Frequent Headaches<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Chronic jaw pain radiating to your face, neck, and head should be discussed with your dentist. These symptoms can signal a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder that requires timely care to avoid more serious problems down the road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Enamel wear, difficulty chewing, and limited oral movement can become debilitating over time. However, by sharing these details with your dentist, they can develop a treatment plan that targets the worn-down jaw joints. As a result, you can begin to experience positive results that allow you to enjoy a better quality of life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dental Anxiety or Fear<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There is no reason to hide your dental anxiety. Many patients suffer in silence, afraid that their dentist will judge them. The truth is that by telling them your fears during a dental checkup, they can offer safe and reliable solutions to help you overcome your nervousness and receive the care you need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s possible that your dentist may provide sedation dentistry, including nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV administration. All of these methods are designed to calm nerves, reduce anxiety, and create a calming experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Your decision to share this information with your dentist is a positive first step, especially if it has been a long time since your last visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to your oral and overall health, your dentist is your ally. Don\u2019t hesitate to discuss your medical history and related issues, as this will help them provide the best possible care for your unique needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

About the Practice<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Our team at Westgate Dental Care is here to make sure your dental checkups are comfortable, educational, and successful. With dedicated professionals committed to helping your smile look and feel its best, we also care about your overall health and how it affects your mouth, for better or worse. Visit our website<\/a> or call us at (847) 577-7171<\/a> to schedule an appointment to discuss any changes to your medical history and how it might be impacting your smile.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Dental checkups are about more than just your oral health. While your dentist examines your smile for any signs of cavities, decay, gum disease, infection, and damage, they also want to learn about your medical history and overall wellness. It might seem as if this information isn\u2019t necessary, but the truth is that there is […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-14975","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"yoast_head":"\nDental Checkup | Health Factors | Westgate Dental Care<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Your dental checkup is not solely designed to focus on your smile. 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