Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

Smile Studio ("we," "our," or "us") is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our dental practice or use our website.

Please read this privacy policy carefully. By using our services, you consent to the data practices described in this policy.

2. Information We Collect

Personal Information

We may collect personally identifiable information, including but not limited to:

• Name, address, and contact information
• Date of birth and Social Security number (for insurance purposes)
• Insurance information and policy details
• Payment and billing information
• Emergency contact information

Protected Health Information (PHI)

As a healthcare provider, we collect health-related information including:

• Medical and dental history
• Treatment records and clinical notes
• X-rays and diagnostic images
• Prescription and medication information
• Lab results and referral information

Website Information

When you visit our website, we may automatically collect:

• IP address and browser type
• Device information and operating system
• Pages visited and time spent on site
• Referring website information

3. How We Use Your Information

We use the information we collect to:

• Provide dental care and treatment services
• Process insurance claims and payments
• Schedule and manage appointments
• Send appointment reminders and follow-up communications
• Communicate about treatment plans and recommendations
• Comply with legal and regulatory requirements
• Improve our services and patient experience
• Send newsletters and promotional materials (with consent)

4. HIPAA Compliance

As a healthcare provider, Smile Studio complies with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Our HIPAA compliance includes:

• Maintaining physical, electronic, and procedural safeguards for PHI
• Training all staff on privacy and security protocols
• Obtaining patient authorization before disclosing PHI (except as permitted by law)
• Providing patients with access to their health records upon request
• Notifying patients in the event of a data breach

A full copy of our Notice of Privacy Practices is available at our office and upon request.

5. Information Sharing

We may share your information with:

• Insurance companies: To process claims and verify coverage
• Other healthcare providers: For referrals and coordinated care
• Business associates: Third parties who assist with operations (bound by confidentiality agreements)
• Legal authorities: When required by law or court order
• Public health agencies: For disease reporting and prevention

We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information to third parties for marketing purposes.

6. Data Security

We implement appropriate security measures to protect your information, including:

• Encrypted electronic health record systems
• Secure, password-protected systems
• Physical security measures at our facilities
• Regular security assessments and updates
• Staff training on data protection

7. Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access and receive copies of your health records
• Request amendments to your records
• Receive an accounting of disclosures of your PHI
• Request restrictions on certain uses of your information
• Request confidential communications
• File a complaint if you believe your privacy rights have been violated

8. Cookies and Tracking

Our website uses cookies and similar technologies to:

• Remember your preferences and settings
• Analyze website traffic and usage patterns
• Improve website functionality

You can control cookie settings through your browser preferences. Disabling cookies may affect certain website features.

9. Children's Privacy

For pediatric patients, we collect information with parental or guardian consent. Parents and guardians have the right to review and request deletion of their child's information.

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated effective date. We encourage you to review this policy regularly.