For referring clinicians
A short, predictable pathway for endodontic referrals.
I aim to make referring as light as possible: a brief note, a prompt assessment, and a clear letter back. I am honest if a case is not best treated by me, including when extraction or observation is the more appropriate option.
- Most referrals
- Seen within two weeks
- Letter back
- Within seven working days
How a referral works
Three steps from referral to follow-up.
Send a brief referral
Send the patient's contact details, the tooth concerned, your provisional diagnosis, and any relevant history. A short note is enough to begin.
I see the patient
I aim to assess most referred cases within two weeks. Acute trauma and severe pain are seen sooner where possible.
Findings back to you
After assessment you receive a concise letter with diagnosis, treatment performed, prognosis, and the planned recall pattern.
When to refer
When to refer to me
Use these as a guide. If you’re unsure, a short note or phone call usually settles whether a referral is the right step.
- Diagnostic uncertainty around tooth pain or swelling that has not settled.
- Calcified, sclerosed, or unusually anatomical canal systems.
- Previously treated teeth that need a careful retreatment decision.
- Suspected cracked tooth before committing to root canal treatment or extraction.
- Apical surgery candidates after orthograde retreatment is not appropriate.
- Trauma, particularly avulsion, luxation, and immature open-apex teeth.
Records that help
A short note plus what you already have is usually enough. Please share any imaging you have rather than re-image.
- A short referral note with the chief complaint, suspected tooth, and any relevant history.
- Recent periapical radiographs of the tooth and contralateral side where possible.
- Bitewings within the last twelve months when restorative status is part of the question.
- Any CBCT volumes already taken: please share rather than re-image.
- A note on restorability and your view on long-term prognosis if you have one.
Imaging can be shared by secure email or via your usual radiology platform after I am in touch.
Clinician questions
Things colleagues most often ask before referring.
Do you take direct patient enquiries or only referrals?
Both. Patients can self-refer through the contact page; I encourage them to share any imaging from their general dentist. For complex restorative or surgical decisions I coordinate with the referring clinician throughout.
How quickly will the patient be seen?
Most non-acute referrals are offered an appointment within two weeks. Acute trauma, severe pain, and active infection are triaged and seen sooner where the diary allows.
What goes back to the referring clinician?
A concise letter covering diagnosis, treatment delivered, restorative recommendations, prognosis, and the recall plan. Imaging is shared on request.
Can patients book without imaging?
Yes. I will take what is needed at the visit. Sharing existing imaging avoids duplication and lets me plan ahead.
Refer in one minute
A short note is all I need.
Send the patient’s details, the tooth concerned, and your working diagnosis. A short note is enough. I’ll come back to you with the next step.