Terms of Service

1. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing our website, scheduling an appointment, or receiving dental care at Smile Studio, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not use our services.

These terms constitute a legally binding agreement between you and Smile Studio ("we," "us," or "our"). We reserve the right to modify these terms at any time, and your continued use of our services constitutes acceptance of any changes.

2. Dental Services

Scope of Services

Smile Studio provides comprehensive dental care including but not limited to preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dental services. All services are provided by licensed dental professionals in accordance with applicable laws and professional standards.

Treatment Plans

Treatment recommendations are based on clinical examination and professional judgment. We will discuss treatment options, risks, benefits, and alternatives with you before proceeding. You have the right to accept or decline any recommended treatment.

No Guarantees

While we strive for excellent outcomes, we cannot guarantee specific results. Dental treatment outcomes depend on various factors including patient compliance, oral hygiene practices, and individual health conditions.

3. Appointments

Scheduling

Appointments can be scheduled by phone, online, or in person. We will send appointment reminders via your preferred method of communication, but it is ultimately your responsibility to remember your scheduled appointments.

Cancellation Policy

We require at least 24 hours' notice for appointment cancellations or rescheduling. Late cancellations or no-shows may result in a cancellation fee of up to $50. Repeated missed appointments may affect your ability to schedule future appointments.

Punctuality

Please arrive on time for your appointments. Late arrivals may result in a shortened appointment time or the need to reschedule. If you are running late, please call us as soon as possible.

4. Financial Terms

Payment

Payment is due at the time of service unless other arrangements have been made. We accept cash, checks, credit cards, HSA/FSA accounts, and approved financing plans.

Insurance

We will file insurance claims on your behalf as a courtesy. However, you are ultimately responsible for payment regardless of insurance coverage. Insurance estimates are not guarantees of payment. Any balance not covered by insurance is your responsibility.

Estimates

Cost estimates are provided in good faith based on planned treatment. Actual costs may vary if treatment needs change during the procedure. We will inform you of any significant changes before proceeding.

Collections

Accounts that remain unpaid for more than 90 days may be referred to a collection agency. You agree to pay all collection costs, including reasonable attorney fees, incurred in the collection of unpaid balances.

5. Patient Responsibilities

As a patient, you agree to:

• Provide accurate and complete medical and dental history information
• Inform us of any changes in your health status, medications, or allergies
• Follow recommended treatment plans and post-treatment instructions
• Maintain proper oral hygiene between visits
• Attend scheduled appointments or provide adequate notice for cancellations
• Provide current insurance information and notify us of any changes
• Treat our staff with respect and courtesy
• Pay for services in accordance with our financial policies

6. Informed Consent

Before receiving treatment, you will be asked to provide informed consent. This means you:

• Have been informed of the nature of the proposed treatment
• Understand the potential risks, benefits, and alternatives
• Have had the opportunity to ask questions
• Voluntarily agree to proceed with treatment

For minors, informed consent must be provided by a parent or legal guardian.

7. Website Terms

Website Use

Our website is provided for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified dental professional with any questions you may have.

Intellectual Property

All content on our website, including text, images, logos, and design elements, is owned by Smile Studio and protected by copyright laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, or create derivative works without our written permission.

Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the content, privacy practices, or terms of use of these external sites.

8. Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law:

• Our liability for any claim arising from dental services is limited to the amount you paid for those services
• We are not liable for any indirect, incidental, special, or consequential damages
• We are not liable for delays or failures in performance caused by circumstances beyond our reasonable control
• Nothing in these terms excludes liability for gross negligence or intentional misconduct

9. Dispute Resolution

If you have a concern about our services, we encourage you to contact us directly to seek a resolution. We are committed to addressing patient concerns promptly and fairly.

Any disputes that cannot be resolved informally shall be governed by the laws of the State of California, without regard to conflict of law principles. Any legal action must be brought in the courts of San Francisco County, California.

10. Termination

Either party may terminate the patient-dentist relationship at any time. If we terminate the relationship, we will provide you with reasonable notice and assistance in finding another dental provider. We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone who:

• Repeatedly misses appointments without notice
• Fails to pay for services rendered
• Is abusive or threatening to staff
• Refuses to follow recommended treatment plans in a way that compromises care

11. Severability

If any provision of these terms is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect. The invalid provision shall be modified to the minimum extent necessary to make it valid and enforceable.