Why do anesthesiologist check your mouth?

A well-documented pre-anesthesia assessment of each patient’s dental condition provides an optimal start. This gives the anesthesiologist an opportunity to identify potential problems before he or she begins administering anesthesia—and to discuss those and formulate a plan to mitigate dental injury risk.

Why do they look in your mouth before surgery?

Examination of the teeth is important as the insertion of the airway devices into the mouth can damage loose teeth/caps/crowns. If the anaesthetist is aware of the position of these teeth, they can usually adjust their technique to avoid causing any damage.

Why do doctors ask to see your tongue?

Physicians often ask their patients to “Please stick out your tongue.” The tongue can betray signs of illness, which combined with other symptoms such as a cough, fever, presence of jaundice, headache or bowel habits, can help the physician offer a diagnosis.

Why do they ask about missing teeth before surgery?

Request Dental Clearance Before Surgery If present, bacteria from a dental disease – most often gum disease or periodontitis – can transfer from the mouth to the vulnerable tissues affected by the surgery.

What doctor checks your tongue?

For tongue lesions such as changes in color, growths, or texture changes, an oral surgeon or an otolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat specialist, also known as an ENT specialist) can evaluate the area, perform a biopsy, and follow up or refer for appropriate treatment such as surgery or medication.

What do doctors look for when they check your mouth?

Say ahhhh! Your mouth tells a story, too. Like the back of your throat—it looks one way when you’re healthy, another way if you have a bacterial infection such as strep throat, and yet another when there’s a viral infection like hand, foot and mouth disease. Your tongue gives clues as to how well hydrated you are.