Easing Your Allergies with Latex-Free Dentistry

posted: Jan. 23, 2024.

Imagine this scenario: you go to the dentist to have a cavity filled, and an hour after the procedure you have a runny nose, scratchy throat, and your arms are breaking out in blotchy, red hives. In other words, you’re in worse shape after the visit to the dentist than you were before you walked in to have the cavity fixed. If you experience any of these types of symptoms or side effects, chances are you have a latex allergy.

What is a latex allergy?

A latex allergy is a hypersensitivity to latex proteins. If you have this allergy, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that you avoid direct contact with any materials that contain latex. While latex gloves are known to cause allergic reactions in people with a latex allergy, certain metals, plastics, and other materials used in dental care can also cause an adverse response.

A runny nose and itchy eyes are common allergic reactions to latex. However, the doctor and our team at Hobson Dental Associates want you to know it can also trigger more severe symptoms, including asthma, wheezing, and cardiovascular and gastrointestinal ailments.

A latex-safe dental environment

Many dental offices screen patients for a latex allergy. This is only beneficial, however, if you’re already aware you have a latex allergy. The best thing you can do to ease your allergies is to find a dentist who has a latex-safe environment. A latex-safe dental environment observes the following protocols:

All patients are screened for a latex allergy.
No personnel use latex gloves.
All latex products are removed from the patient’s vicinity, including rubber dams and elastics.
Work areas contaminated with latex powder are cleaned frequently.
Signs are posted to communicate all latex allergy procedures in case of an emergency.

If a latex allergy is part of your medical history, then it’s in your best interest to find a latex-free dental environment. To learn more about latex-free dentistry, or to schedule an appointment with the doctor, please give us a call at our convenient Woodridge, Illinois office!

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Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Us

"Thank you! You truly are a magician! My teeth look and feel great! You and your staff were kind, competent, and understanding. Thank you!"

Thelma W.
"My family and I have been going to Hobson Dental and Dr. DeWeirdt for many, many years. The service is always amazing, and the staff treat us like family!! I highly recommend Hobson Dental!!"

Lara K.
"My whole family comes here and we love it! The staff are all so nice and caring. I love that it feels like a small town dental office; they remember you each and every time. Dr Deweirdt is an excellent dentist. He’s thorough and doesn’t rush into rash decisions about procedures."

Allison C.
"Excellent service from the moment I walked in the door!! My family and I found our new dentist. Dr. Deweirdt is awesome!! He answered all my questions and provided remarkable feedback. Most importantly I was pleased with his work!"

Margaret J.
"I have been going to Hobson Dental for almost 30 years. Pleasant, professional and courteous staff. Dr. Deweirdt knows his patients and families. I highly recommend Hobson Dental if you’re looking for a dentist."

Melissa A.
"Dr. DeWeirdt is hilarious, which makes you look forward to each visit. But he’s also very good at what he does, so you know you will be treated right. Staff is friendly, good hours to fit your schedule. Have referred family and friends there, many times."

Zach G.
"Dr. D and his staff are incredible. I can honestly say I Love ❤️ going to my dentist. He and his staff make you feel at home. Dr. D eliminates the stress and anxiety that can come with visiting the dentist. THEY ARE SUPERB!!!"
"I have been going to Hobson Dental since I was in college, 25 plus years. Dr Dewierdt is the BEST, great bedside manner and just a really good guy! He also knows his stuff. The staff at Hobson Dental has also been wonderful throughout the years from the Dental assistants, dental hygienists to the front desk. Highly recommend if you are looking for a new Dentist."

Anne S.
"Entire office is friendly. Hygenist Heidi was gentle and thorough. Always make me feel comfortable.
I have been a patient for several years."

Robyn
"Can't say enough great things about Hobson Dental. Great dentistry, they listen and truly understand their patients needs. Dr Glen DeWeirdt is fantastic and so personable. 100 star rating from me!!"

Sue C.
"Great dentist. Dr Glen deweirdt is wonderful. They are all so caring and understanding. They make you feel comfortable and relaxed. My experience was nothing but the best. Would highly recommend Hobson dental to everyone."

David M.
"Great dental care provider. Been coming here for years. Hygienists are nice and careful. Dr D is the best and does awesome work!! You will be well cared for."

Mike G.

Hobson Dental Associates