Dental Referral Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Position]
[Your Dental Practice Name]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]
[Referring Dentist's Name]
[Referring Dental Practice Name]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear Dr. [Referring Dentist's Last Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to formally refer one of my valued patients for specialized dental care. After careful evaluation and consideration, it has been determined that the expertise of your practice is best suited to address their specific dental needs.
Patient Information:
Patient's Full Name: [Patient's Full Name]
Date of Birth: [Patient's Date of Birth]
Patient's Contact Number: [Patient's Phone Number]
Relevant Medical History: [Briefly mention any relevant medical history or conditions]
Dental Concern/Diagnosis:
Brief description of the dental issue or diagnosis that requires specialized care.
Recommended Treatment/Procedure:
Outline the recommended treatment, procedure, or specialty care that you believe would be most appropriate for the patient's needs.
Reason for Referral:
Explain why you are referring the patient to this particular specialist, highlighting their expertise and experience in handling similar cases.
Patient's Current Oral Health Status:
Briefly describe the patient's current oral health status, including any recent X-rays or diagnostic results that you are providing along with this referral letter.
I trust that your expertise and dedication to patient care will provide the best possible outcome for [Patient's Full Name]. I kindly request that you keep me informed of the progress and treatment plan for this patient, as well as any updates regarding their future dental care.
Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions or if you require further information. I am committed to collaborating closely with you to ensure the continuity of the patient's care.
Thank you for your attention to this referral, and I look forward to your expert management of [Patient's Full Name]'s dental health.
Sincerely,
[Your Handwritten Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
[Your Title/Position]
[Your Dental Practice Name]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
Enclosure: [List any enclosed documents, such as X-rays, diagnostic reports, etc.]
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Professional Dental Referral Letter
Subject: Referral for Specialist Dental Treatment
Dear Dr. [Last Name],
I am writing to refer my patient, [Patient’s Full Name], who requires specialized dental care beyond the scope of my practice. After a recent examination, I have identified [briefly state the condition, e.g., severe periodontal disease, impacted wisdom teeth, or need for orthodontic evaluation].
The patient has already undergone [list any treatment or diagnostics performed]. I am recommending referral to your care for further evaluation and management. Please find enclosed the patient’s medical and dental history, X-rays, and relevant clinical notes for your reference.
Thank you for your collaboration in ensuring the best possible care for this patient. Please feel free to contact me if you need additional details.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Practice Name]
Casual Email Referral to a Colleague Dentist
Subject: Patient Referral – [Patient’s First Name]
Hi [Colleague’s First Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I’m reaching out to refer a patient, [Patient’s Full Name], who I think would benefit from your expertise in [specific area, e.g., endodontics, orthodontics].
They’ve been under my care for routine treatments, but now require advanced evaluation. I’ve attached their X-rays and notes for your convenience. The patient is aware and willing to proceed with the referral.
Thanks for taking this on! Let me know if you need anything further.
Best,
[Your Name]
Referral Letter for Oral Surgery
Subject: Referral for Oral Surgery Evaluation
Dear Dr. [Last Name],
I am referring my patient, [Patient’s Name], for an oral surgery consultation. The patient presents with [condition: e.g., impacted third molars, jaw cyst, or facial trauma] requiring surgical assessment and intervention.
Relevant diagnostic imaging and previous treatment notes have been included with this letter. The patient is fully informed of the need for referral and is expecting your office to contact them.
I appreciate your prompt attention to this case and your continued collaboration.
Kind regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Practice Information]
Specialist Referral Letter for Orthodontics
Subject: Referral for Orthodontic Treatment
Dear Dr. [Last Name],
I am referring [Patient’s Full Name], a [patient’s age]-year-old patient, for orthodontic assessment. During routine check-ups, I observed significant malocclusion that requires corrective orthodontic treatment.
I have provided a summary of their dental history and recent radiographs. The patient and their parents are aware of the referral and eager to proceed.
Thank you in advance for your expert care and guidance.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Quick Message Referral for Emergency Dental Care
Subject: Urgent Referral – Emergency Case
Dear Dr. [Last Name],
I am urgently referring [Patient’s Full Name], who is experiencing [condition: e.g., severe infection, abscess, uncontrolled bleeding]. Immediate intervention is required.
The patient has been stabilized in my office and is being directed to your practice today. I recommend urgent assessment and treatment. Attached are preliminary X-rays and case notes.
Thank you for attending to this case promptly.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Heartfelt Letter for Pediatric Dental Referral
Subject: Pediatric Referral for [Child’s First Name]
Dear Dr. [Last Name],
I am referring my young patient, [Child’s Full Name, Age], for pediatric dental evaluation. While I have been providing general care, I believe your pediatric expertise is best suited to address [specific concern, e.g., early childhood cavities, developmental issues, or anxiety management].
The parents are supportive of this referral and want the best possible care for their child. I’ve included their dental records and X-rays for review.
Thank you for providing compassionate and specialized care.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
General Template Referral for Dental Hygienist Services
Subject: Referral for Dental Hygiene Services
Dear [Hygienist’s Name],
I am referring [Patient’s Name] for professional hygiene treatment. The patient requires scaling, polishing, and preventive care to manage [condition: e.g., early gum disease, plaque buildup, or tartar control].
This referral is intended to ensure continuity of care and help maintain the patient’s oral health. Please update me with your findings after the session.
Thank you for your support in patient care.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Formal Specialist Referral for Periodontics
Subject: Referral for Periodontal Treatment
Dear Dr. [Last Name],
I am referring my patient, [Patient’s Name], who presents with advanced periodontal disease requiring specialized evaluation and treatment. Despite routine maintenance, the patient continues to exhibit deep periodontal pockets and mobility in several teeth.
Enclosed are periodontal charting records and radiographs for your review. The patient has been informed of the seriousness of their condition and is prepared for further management.
I appreciate your attention and collaboration in this matter.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
What is a Dental Referral Letter and Why Do You Need It?
A dental referral letter is a formal document sent from one dentist to another specialist or healthcare provider.
It explains the patient’s condition, what has been done so far, and why referral is necessary.
The purpose is to ensure continuity of care, provide the specialist with essential information, and help the patient receive the right treatment.
Who Should Write a Dental Referral Letter?
- General dentists referring to specialists such as orthodontists, oral surgeons, or periodontists.
- Pediatric dentists referring children to specialized care.
- Dental hygienists recommending patients for advanced treatment.
- Even medical doctors can write one when dental complications affect systemic health.
Whom Should a Dental Referral Letter Be Addressed To?
- Dental specialists (orthodontists, periodontists, oral surgeons).
- Pediatric dentists for child-focused cases.
- Hospitals or emergency dental units for urgent referrals.
- Dental hygienists or preventive care clinics.
- Occasionally insurance companies, when documentation is required.
When Do You Need to Send a Dental Referral Letter?
- When a case requires specialized expertise.
- For emergencies like infections or trauma.
- For pediatric patients needing advanced or behavioral support.
- For orthodontic evaluations (misalignment, bite issues).
- When surgery is necessary (impacted teeth, cysts, tumors).
- For complex gum disease or restorative work.
How to Write and Send a Dental Referral Letter
- Start with a clear subject line.
- Introduce the patient and summarize their condition.
- Include what treatments have already been done.
- Attach supporting documents (X-rays, notes, history).
- Maintain a respectful, professional tone.
- Inform the patient and confirm they agree to the referral.
- Send through secure channels (postal mail, encrypted email, or patient handover).
Requirements and Prerequisites Before Writing
- Obtain patient consent.
- Gather diagnostic records (radiographs, treatment history).
- Have a clear reason for referral.
- Identify the right specialist or clinic.
- Prepare to provide follow-up communication.
Formatting Guidelines for Dental Referral Letters
- Keep the letter professional, concise, and clear.
- Avoid unnecessary jargon; use medical accuracy.
- Length should usually be 1–2 pages.
- Use respectful tone appropriate for professional communication.
- Clearly label attachments and enclosures.
- Digital referrals should follow encryption and privacy protocols.
After Sending: Follow-up Actions
- Confirm that the patient scheduled the specialist appointment.
- Follow up with the specialist for updates on treatment.
- Document the referral in the patient’s record.
- Be available for clarification if the specialist needs additional information.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Dental Referral Letters
- Forgetting to include patient consent.
- Omitting key details like medical history or prior treatment.
- Sending vague or unclear descriptions.
- Using overly casual language in formal cases.
- Failing to follow up after referral.
Elements and Structure of a Dental Referral Letter
- Subject line.
- Greeting and introduction.
- Patient details (name, age, condition).
- Reason for referral.
- Summary of prior treatment and findings.
- Attached documents (X-rays, notes).
- Closing remarks and contact details.
Pros and Cons of Sending a Dental Referral Letter
Pros:
- Improves continuity of patient care.
- Builds trust between professionals.
- Provides documentation for insurance and legal needs.
- Reduces errors by sharing patient history.
Cons:
- Requires time and preparation.
- Risk of privacy issues if not securely shared.
- Patients may feel anxious being “passed on” to another provider.
Tips and Best Practices for Dental Referral Letters
- Always keep the patient informed.
- Be concise but include essential details.
- Use respectful language to maintain professional trust.
- Attach visual records whenever possible.
- Keep a copy in your files for future reference.
Does a Dental Referral Letter Require Attestation?
In most cases, a dental referral letter does not require external attestation.
It simply needs to be signed by the referring dentist.
However, some insurance companies or hospitals may request additional documentation or authorization.
