Why the dentist asks for your medical history
When you attend for your first appointment at Ringmer Dental and at least once a year from then on, the receptionist will ask that you complete or update your medical history. This is to ensure that the dentist has all the necessary information regarding your health to ensure that they can always provide safe and effective treatment.
All this information is completely confidential and is held under the 1998 Data Protection Act. It may be necessary at times for your dentist to contact your GP, but they will always ask your permission prior to doing this and will only do this to ensure that any treatment will not be adversely affected by your current medication or health conditions.
- Medication
It is important that the dental team have an up to date list of any medication you are on to ensure that the treatment they propose is safe. For example, if you take warfarin that thins the blood and means that prior to extractions or invasive dental procedures you will need a blood test to check your INR level and ensure that it will be possible to stop the bleeding following the procedure.
There are also medications that can mean you will need to be referred to a specialist oral surgeon for certain procedures. This ensures that there is adequate provision in place to manage your conditions that may not be available within general dental practice.
- Antibiotic cover
Antibiotic cover is no longer considered necessary for patients with heart complaints or rheumatic fever. However, the dentist may well use a non-adrenaline anaesthetic if you suffer from these conditions.
- Allergies
By listing any allergies, the dental team are able to ensure that they do not use materials or prescribe medication that may cause you to have an anaphylactic attack.
- Diabetes
If you suffer with diabetes you are at higher risk of developing gum disease and so it is important the dentist is aware so can ensure you attend for more routine appointments. Diabetic patients may also take longer to heal following a procedure.
- Epilepsy
If you suffer with epilepsy the dentist needs to know so that they can have the appropriate drugs on hand should you have an episode during treatment. Epileptic patients find that they are more likely to suffer fits when they are stressed or anxious, so it is important to make sure that you discuss any worries with the dental team.
- Pregnancy
The dentist will aim to leave any dental treatment until after the birth of your baby and will refrain from taking x-rays. During pregnancy some women find that their gums bleed and require closer attention. It may be worthwhile visiting the hygienist for regular cleaning and advice or oral care routines.
If you would like more information about how the dentist uses your medical history, do not hesitate to ask at your next appointment. Call Ringmer Dental today on 01273 813898 and book an appointment with our dentist today.