Keeping your medical history up to date helps your dentist provide safer, more effective and personalised care. Here’s why it’s so important.
When you visit your dentist, you might be asked to review or update your medical history. It can sometimes feel like a formality, especially if nothing in your health has changed. But in a dental setting, keeping your medical information accurate and up to date is absolutely essential to your safety, comfort, and the quality of care you receive.
Your mouth and body are closely connected
Oral health doesn’t exist in isolation. Many medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis, can directly affect your gums, teeth, and healing after treatment. Similarly, medications prescribed by your GP may influence how your mouth responds to dental work, anaesthetic, or healing.
By sharing a full and current picture of your health, your dental team can tailor their care to your individual needs, ensuring every decision made is in your best interest.
Supporting safe and effective treatment
An up-to-date medical history allows your dentist or hygienist to make informed choices about your care. For example:
• Certain heart conditions or joint replacements may require special precautions or antibiotic cover.
• Blood thinners can affect how your body responds to treatment or surgery.
• Allergies and asthma need to be noted to avoid any triggers during your appointment.
Even small details, such as changes in medication, supplements, or lifestyle can make a difference to how we plan and deliver your treatment.
Being prepared for the unexpected
In the rare event of a medical emergency, having the right information at hand is crucial. Knowing your medical background enables our team to respond swiftly and appropriately, giving you the safest possible care if something unexpected occurs.
Making your care more comfortable and personalised
When your dentist understands your overall health, it helps create a smoother, more comfortable experience. From managing dental anxiety to adjusting your treatment plan around health conditions, having a clear picture means your care is not only safe but truly personalised.
How to keep your medical details up to date
At Synergy Dental Care, we’ve made updating your medical form simple and convenient:
• Before your appointment: Complete your form quickly and securely through our patient portal.
• At the practice: If you’d rather do it in person, please arrive a little early for your next appointment and our team will be happy to help you use the iPad at reception or provide a paper copy if you prefer.
The bottom line
Keeping your medical information current is one of the simplest yet most important ways you can support your dental team and your own wellbeing. It helps us deliver care that’s safe, effective, and perfectly suited to you.
At Synergy Dental, your health and comfort are always our top priority. Thank you for taking a moment to keep us up to date it makes a world of difference.
