Requesting your dental records

Your Right to Obtain Access to Your Dental Records

Thanks to HIPAA, only you have the right to your records, and all you have to do is ask. You can visit the dentist to ask in person, but many experts recommend making the request in writing, so you and your healthcare provider have a record of it.It's important to know that as a patient, you have the right to a copy of your record—not the original. Your original record belongs to your healthcare provider.
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Your healthcare provider cannot deny you a copy of your records if you haven't paid for the services you've received. However, they might charge a fee for preparing and mailing the records.

Getting Hard Copy vs. Electronic Records

There are two types of records: old-school, hard copy records, and electronic medical records (EMRs). HIPAA was instrumental in the development of EMRs. Electronic records allow information to be shared securely and seamlessly. Between a hard copy and an electronic record, there is no "better" option. It's whatever you prefer.

Keep in mind that medical records can be hundreds of pages long, so be selective about what information you want.