The first time you visit your orthodontist, you'll have to fill out a complete medical and dental history form to guide them in your diagnosis and treatment. Here, you can read about what they need to know, and why they need to know it!
Why Does My Orthodontist Need to Know My Medical History?
The medical and dental history forms are an important part of the registration process during your first visit. It provides your orthodontist with necessary information about your lifestyle (such as whether or not you smoke, or if you play impact sports) and your personal and family medical history.
In combination with the information your orthodontist will gather during your initial examination, the content of these forms will guide him as he develops an appropriate and effective treatment plan for you.
What information is included on the medical history form?
When you fill your form out, it's important that you include all the details you know about your past and present state of health, a comprehensive list of any medications you are taking, and any diseases or disorders you have.
Why does my orthodontist need to know all this?
Many diseases common diseases also have an impact on oral health, and can therefore affect the course of treatment developed for you.
For instance, Diabetes can increase the risk of periodontal disease. If your orthodontist is aware that you have Diabetes, he'll know to choose a teeth straightening option for you that will make keeping your gums and teeth extra clean as easy as possible.
It's also vital that we know what medications you take, as these may also affect your oral health in different ways. If, for example, your medication causes dry mouth (as many do), this can increase your risk of cavities, since saliva functions in part to wash away food particles and debris from your teeth.
We also need to be sure that any medication we prescribe won’t be in conflict with something you are already taking. For example, if jaw surgery is part of your treatment plan, then a medication you take could make it necessary for us to change the type of anesthesia we use.
Updates
Be sure to keep your orthodontist's office up to date when your health status changes. This includes letting us know if you change medications, are pregnant, smoke, become ill, or develop allergies.
Privacy
Your orthodontist will not release any medical information you provide him without your consent. However, he may ask you to sign a consent form so that he can release your medical information to your insurance company for your health insurance benefits.
