Whatever it is, when you finally find a new dentist, it is very important that you have your dental records transferred.
What are Dental Records?
Your dental records are a record of all your appointments that you had with your previous dentist. Those records contain valuable information. They have your exam history, any issues you may have had, treatments given, medications prescribed, what type of sedation you need (if any), your allergies, X-rays of your mouth.
If you were seeing your last dentist for a while, it's impossible to remember these details yourself, and all this information is going to be extremely useful to your new dentist.
Why Not Start New?
Your new dentist needs to know your oral health history. For instance, if you have a history of oral cancer in your family, or you have been treated for gum disease. This type of information is crucial in how your dentist treats you for new conditions. The only thing that your new dentist might want is a new set of X-rays, unless there is a set in your records that had been taken fairly close to the time you left the old office.
How Do You Get Your Records?
You need to request that your records be transferred. But it's not enough to call the office and ask. In most states, you need to have a signed document that gives permission. In some instances, you may pick up a copy yourself and in others the old office may send them directly to the new one. Some offices may charge you a small transfer fee, while others will do it free of charge.
If you have recently switched dentists, be sure that you contact your old office to have your records transferred. Your new dentist will thank you, and be able to provide you with the best care possible.
Please contact our office if you have any questions about you oral health.
