Remember to Tell Your Dentist About Your Allergy to Latex

Posted on 9/1/2025 by Premier Dental Center

$A bag of vegetables$ Have you ever been curious about all those blue gloves your dentist wears? They might be a necessary part of your dental visit, but for some people, they can be a cause for concern. If you are allergic to latex, it's important to let your dentist know before your next checkup.

What is Latex?

Latex is a natural rubber found in many products, including gloves, balloons, and condoms. It is also a common ingredient in dental dams, rubber bands used in braces, and some types of dental floss. While latex is generally safe for most people, some individuals can experience an allergic reaction when they come into contact with it.

Latex Allergy Symptoms

Symptoms of a latex allergy can range from mild to severe. Some people may experience only mild skin irritation, such as itching or redness. Others may have a more severe reaction, including:

•	Hives
•	Swelling
•	Wheezing
•	Difficulty breathing
•	Anaphylaxis (a life-threatening allergic reaction)

If you experience any of these symptoms after coming into contact with latex, it's important to seek medical attention immediately.

What Your Dentist Can Do

If you are allergic to latex, it's important to tell your dentist before your next appointment. This will allow them to take the necessary precautions to keep you safe. Some things your dentist may do include:

•	Using non-latex gloves
•	Avoiding using products that contain latex
•	Having an emergency plan in place in case you experience an allergic reaction

By working together, you and your dentist can ensure that your dental visits are safe and comfortable.

What You Can Do

In addition to letting your dentist know about your latex allergy, there are a few things you can do to protect yourself:

•	Wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace that states you have a latex allergy.
•	Carry an epinephrine auto-injector (such as an EpiPen) in case you experience an allergic reaction.
•	Ask your dentist for a list of latex-free products they use.
•	Be sure to inform other healthcare providers about your allergy, such as your doctor and pharmacist.

By taking these steps, you can help to minimize your risk of having a latex allergy reaction.

Conclusion

Latex allergy is a serious condition that can cause a range of symptoms. However, with proper precautions, people with latex allergies can still receive safe and effective dental care. By working together, you and your dentist can ensure that your dental visits are safe and comfortable.

If you have any questions about latex allergy, please talk to your dentist or allergist.

Bells
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Wed: 9am - 5pm
Thu: 7am - 2pm
Fri: By appt
Sat & Sun: Closed

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Office

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14029 S 1st St
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Wed: 9am - 5pm
Thu: 7am - 2pm
Fri: By appt
Sat & Sun: Closed

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(731) 617-9818

689 W Church St, Lexington, TN 38351

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Mon: 11am - 6pm
Tue: 8am - 5pm
Wed: 9am - 5pm
Thu: 7am - 2pm
Fri: Closed
Sat & Sun: Closed

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Premier Dental, 80 Exeter Rd, Jackson, TN 38305 ~ 731-300-3000 ~ premdent.com ~ 9/10/2025 ~ Associated Words: Dentist Bells Jackson Milan Lexington ~