I'm hoping some of you retired guys can help me out. I'm retiring this summer and getting my medical records together for my VA disability determination. It turns out the Dental clinic has lost my dental records. I recently had an implant done and they got lost in the transfer process from the prosthodontist to the dental clinic. Should I press them to find them? Are dental records really important for the determination process? Thanks.

For mine they only glanced at them for background. Their examination is what determined it. If you ever think there might be an issue with something in the future, mention it. I was told that getting it rated at 0% allows you to get re-examined in the future should it deteriorate. If you don't get it examined and it causes issues later in life they won't look at it.

I think mickeyrig's advice is excellent. If you are retiring this summer, it appears you have time to get an exam and get it in your records. You should be able to get a copy of your new exam as well.

Also, in case you are not aware of it, many states have their Veteran's Affairs offices that offer free help with filing claims. (I seem to recall reading on texags that Texas has a state VA office.)

If that doesn't work out, seek out a Disabled American Vets office in the area where you retire to. They have trained counselors who really know how to optimize your claim. You don't even have to join the DAV, but I did as a "thank you" for the help they gave me. It's dirt cheap.

I believe the American Legion has a similar program. I don't think you have to belong to that outfit, either, to get help.

Congrats on your pending retirement and heartfelt thanks for your service!

Hello there again AgNav.

Interestingly enough, my dental records (particularly the my vital signs documented during each visit) showed enough evidence of hypertension than did my medical records.

I noticed this as I was getting all my info together as well, and it prompted subsequent testing and membership in the Pill-for-Life Club. Also interesting is the fact that hypertension is not something they assessed my disability on.

BLUF: Get whatever written documentation you can. You never know what it may support.

Zip is correct. Two words in my retirement physical documentation got me a disability rating 10 years after I retired - "enlarged thyroid". Turned into a very serious problem down the road.

Thanks for the advice guys. Looks like I'm going to press them harder to find my records.

Marry a disability rating specialist for the va like I did and it is all easy