[Medical history. Risk factors and prevention in dental practice]

The need for the taking of a medical history when dealing with dental patients, is discussed from two different points of view. The medically compromised patient, according to article 9 part 3 of the regulation 'Special dentistry' in The Netherlands must be recognized by a medical history so adequate preventive treatment will avoid unnecessary medical intervention. As part of the EC proposals on the education of dental practitioners, the prevention of medical emergencies in the dental practice is important as well. A structured medical history based on risk classification and preventive measures meets both options.