Do you have a latex allergy? It’s important for you to understand how treatment might differentiate depending on your condition.

Allergies are a result of our immune system identifying certain materials as harmful. Your immune system sends antibodies to the source of contact and triggers a response, often in the form of wheezing, runny nose or anaphylaxis.

Every time you encounter a latex component, the antibodies detect it and the body releases histamine and additional chemicals into the bloodstream. Be advised, the more exposure you have, the heightened sense of emergency to your immune system.

Latex allergies occur in a variety of ways. One of the most common ways is direct contact – wearing latex gloves or touching other latex products can cause a reaction.

Another method of triggering an allergic response to latex is through inhalation. Certain particles of latex are breathable. Products like gloves release such airborne latex particles. As allergy sufferers can tell you, certain products are worse than others.

Latex products are just about everywhere you turn. Allergy sufferers should be wary of,

  • Gloves
  • Carpeting
  • Waistbands in clothing
  • Balloons
  • Water bottles
  • Disposable diapers
  • Rubber bands
  • Erasers

Having an allergy doesn’t need to complicate your routine dental care. Be sure to call ahead and notify the office that you suffer from a latex allergy ahead of time – your doctor will want to ensure your safety is accounted for.

Due to the diverse variety of patients seen, dentists always have a latex-free protocol on deck wherever necessary. Your allergy will be noted along medical records, ensuring future appointments are handled without incident.

Don’t let a latex allergy stand in the way of your oral health – Call our Goodyear Dental Office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.