Use of a continuing health history in dental practice: a survey.

The authors strongly recommend the routine use of a continual-health-update procedure at each recall appointment. The updated health-histories allow us to better evaluate the "whole" child. We have found that the parent appreciates not only the initial inquiry, but also the continuing concern about illnesses and injuries the child may have incurred since the last dental examination. The inquiries help build rapport between the families and the professional staff of our office. In addition, they upgrade the level of professional care provided.