Parents whose offspring have food allergies can’t take their kids to dental appointments without forethought. An allergen could enter their bodies through their mouths, noses or eyes. More than 170 foods cause allergic reactions, but the vast majority are caused by the “Big Nine”: milk, eggs, nuts, fish, crustaceans, shellfish, wheat, soy and sesame.

We at the office of Smile Gallery Pediatric Dentistry are dedicated to providing the highest level of expert and empathetic care for your child. Our team will work closely with you to ensure your child’s well-being while under our care. 

Before you take your child to his (or her) pedodontist, you may have these concerns: Did those who will be treating my child hold and eat anything for breakfast or lunch that my son is allergic to? What are the dentist’s tool-sanitation methods? What’s in the items—fluoride treatment, toothpaste and other materials—being used? 

Eight Tips for an Allergy-Friendly Dental Visit

1. Call the dental office ahead of time and ask if they’re familiar with food allergies and anaphylaxis.
2. When scheduling your son’s appointment, tell them what his food allergies are, as well as any other names they may be listed as, especially the ones outside the Big Nine.
3. Bring all prescribed medications and his epinephrine auto-injectors.
4. Consider giving the dentist a copy of his allergist’s management plan.
5. Ask the dental provider if she (or he) has food allergy guidelines in place, and if so, what safety measures she employs.
6. Most dental offices will contact you a few days before your visit to confirm the appointment. This is a good time to call or email confirmation with a gentle reminder of your child’s allergens.
7. Upon arrival, provide another gentle reminder: “Hello. I’m here to check in for my son. Just as a reminder, he has several food allergies.”
8. When the dentist or hygienist has your son sit in the dental chair for his cleaning, double-check that his food allergens are noted on his patient chart and ask if you can check the label on the products being used. 

Your son or daughter will be in excellent hands at the office of Smile Gallery Pediatric Dentistry. We’re experts at making children feel comfortable and happy during their visits. Please call us today to make an appointment.