What critical information do you need from a patient on steroids before dental treatment?

Understanding the duration and dosage of steroid therapy a patient is undergoing is crucial before proceeding with any dental treatment. Steroids can impact the body's response to stress, influence healing, and affect the immune system. The duration of therapy can indicate whether the patient has been subjected to prolonged suppression of adrenal function, which might necessitate prophylactic measures such as steroid supplementation during surgical procedures to prevent adrenal crisis. The dosage can help assess the level of steroid suppression and the overall impact on the patient's physiological resilience.

In contrast, while the type of steroid might provide some insight into the specific medication and its potential side effects, it does not give a complete picture of the patient’s current health status related to their steroid use. Similarly, allergy history is important for safety, especially regarding medications or materials used in dental procedures, but it does not directly tie into the effects of steroid therapy. Previous dental experiences, while valuable for understanding the patient’s comfort and anxiety levels, are less relevant in terms of managing the physiological risks associated with steroid use during treatment.