It is difficult to overstress the importance of a good history and thorough clinical examination for every patient. On this the diagnosis is made and the treatment plan based. A full, clearly written record of the original consultation is essential to assess progress following treatment. Particularly is this true if a colleague should be called to see the patient in the practitioner's tioner's absenceT. he medicolegali mportanceo f accurater ecords cannot be overemphasised. In hospitala nd specialistp racticet his procedurec an seldomb e relaxed,b ut the student and the busy practitioner may find it irksome to maintain a high standard when faced with a series of apparently straightforward dental.
