What information must be included in patients’ dental records?

In dental practice, maintaining accurate and complete patient records is vital for legal, professional, and continuity-of-care reasons. The inclusion of the name or initials of the person providing the treatment is essential because it establishes accountability and traceability in the patient's care. This information helps to ensure that the dental hygienist, dentist, or any other healthcare provider involved in the patient's treatment can be identified, which is important for both legal and ethical standards. It also contributes to a clear understanding of who administered specific treatments in case any follow-up questions or issues arise regarding the patient's dental care.

In contrast to this, while details such as the patient's age, preferred treatment method, and records of payments made may contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the patient's background and treatment history, they are not as central to the legal and professional accountability that the provider's identity represents. Therefore, the emphasis on the identity of the practitioner delivering treatment is a cornerstone of maintaining proper dental records, aligning with best practices in the field.