Medical histories
When you visit our practice, you will be asked to complete a medical history form. We will ask you to complete a new form at every check-up or when you change any medications.
It may seem like an insignificant or unnecessary form to complete on a regular basis, but an accurate record of your medical information is needed for your own well being.
We ask that all medical forms are completed to the best of your knowledge.
Medications
Often, we will double check with you any medication you have noted, or questions you have not answered. For example, when prompted a patient may remember that they have an injection for osteoporosis every 6 months. This additional piece of information, if not given, may mean that a normal extraction could result in complications.
Any medications you are taking, even if they are for ailments which are not near the mouth, can have an effect on your teeth and gums – so it is important they are listed on your medical history form.
For example some medications can cause you to have a dry mouth, which can lead to a higher risk of cavities. Other medications and health conditions may result in the clinician needing to give you an alternative local anaesthetic before treatment, to avoid adverse reactions.
Some vitamins and natural remedies can give give side effects to your teeth and gums. For example lemon water can increase erosion & fish oil thins the blood. Therefor it is also important to inform us about any vitamins or natural remedies you take.
Legality
It is a legal requirement to have an up-to-date medical history for all our patients. This means that we are kept informed of any health changes, new medications or lifestyles changes that you may have had in the last 6 months.
Our medical history forms also include questions surrounding lifestyle, (alcohol consumption & smoking), family medical history & allergies.
These questions help us to not only establish your immediate dental needs but also keep you safe whilst in our care. We will be able to advise you the best treatment approach, taking into account your medical needs, and keep any associated risk to a minimum.
It’s all connected
It is very important that you put all information regarding your health into our medical history forms, if if you think it’s not related to your mouth. Anything from back to stomach problems could all have an effect on what’s happens whilst in the dental chair.
Patient confidentiality
All information you give to the practice is strictly confidential. No information will ever leave the building and we never give out information to anyone you have not given us permission to talk to, for example if you are being referred to the dental hospital or a specialist clinic we need to share your medical history with them. We will verbally check this with you before doing so.
If you have any questions regarding medical histories or information we store about you please call us or email reception@lauristondentalcare.co.uk
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