By Madsen Lake
Taking a medical history by a Monterey, CA dentist is a vital step that provides optimum care for patients. Numerous contraindications of dental procedures should be ruled out when taking a medical history. In this article, we will discuss the importance of taking patients’ medical history.
How important is taking a medical history?
Upon the initial visit to the dentist, patients are required to complete a medical history form. This form inquires about the patient’s health issues, allergies, prescription drugs, and past procedures. If a patient is merely in for a normal cleaning or check-up, they may ask why we need to know this information.
The fact is that a patient’s dental care may be greatly impacted by the details we learn from their medical history. The way we prescribe medicine or carry out dental treatments might be impacted by certain medical issues. For instance, to prevent infections, people with heart issues may need to take antibiotics before some dental treatments. Before oral procedures, patients on blood thinners may need to cease taking them to prevent excessive bleeding.
Detailed Information
Patients are required to submit comprehensive information about their medical problems and drugs while completing a medical history form. The question may include:
- Do you have any systemic disease? Like hypertension, diabetes, or bleeding disorder
• Do you take any medications?
• Do you have any allergies?
• Do you use tobacco products or smoke?
• Do you breastfeed or are you pregnant?
Optimize treatment plans using medical history
We utilize the medical history we have obtained about a patient to develop a personalized treatment strategy. For instance, to prevent gum disease, which is more common in those with diabetes, we can advise more regular cleanings or periodontal therapy if the patient has the illness. It is recommended to cease a patient using blood thinners such as warfarin two to three days before surgery and start the patient on heparin injections.
To make sure the patient’s dental treatment is secure and efficient, we may occasionally need to speak with their primary care physician or another expert. For instance, to make sure a patient receiving dental treatment is taking the prescribed medication, we may need to work in conjunction with their cardiologist.
Dental treatment requires a comprehensive medical history before undergoing any procedures. Pregnancy, hypertension, diabetes, and blood disorders are a few of the many conditions that need to be addressed before making a treatment plan. An experienced dental practitioner knows the importance of a medical history and its risks if ignored.
