How can I get a copy of my dental records? Dentist refuses to send them.

Question

My dentist that I went to for 10 yrs is refusing to send me or my new dentist any copies of my records. She even mailed me a letter and told me to address any question in writing which I just did. I sent a letter and sent it certified and she refused delivery of the letter. What is my next step? Help, this lady is crazy, she has all kinds of terrible reviews on the internet!

Scott Young, DDS · Answer

Your dental records should be available to you anytime as long as there is not a balance on your account with the dental office.  Some offices will charge you a small fee (around $25) to make copies of them and you have to sign a release to get them.  Your dentist should know this.  Good luck.

Gregory Bowen, DDS · Answer

In Texas, the records and radiographs belong to the dentist. No dentist I know would withhold records because most of us don't want ill will with our patients...They also don't give us that much information. Radiographs need to be less than a year old to be diagnostic.They do give you a history of treatment, that in some cases is valuable.You can also have your new dentist request them. That is what most new patients in our office do to avoid this uncomfortable exchange with the old office.....

Leonard Tau, DMD · Answer

I agree with the other dentists.  Your dentist needs to release your records to another office or even the patient.  It actually does not matter if you even have a balance.  Your records are yours.  Threaten to call the state board if they do not comply.  Good luck

Ira Shapira, DDS (in memoriam) · Answer

I would go to office with a signed release for copy of your records and leave it there.  Tell them you will report them to the State Board if they do not give you copy of the records or refer them to your new dentist.That said the records are probably not that important to the new dentist.   A full set of dental radiographs and exam will give your new dentist the information they require.

How can I get a copy of my dental records? Dentist refuses to send them.

Answers (4)

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