Privacy Policy
Privacy Policy
Effective Date: June 1, 2025
Welcome to Smile Essentials! Your privacy is important to us. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your personal and health information, both in our office and through our digital services such as patient portals and text messaging.
1. Information We Collect
We collect the following types of information to provide safe, personalized, and high-quality dental care:
Personal Information:
- Name, address, date of birth, email address, phone number
- Emergency contact information
- Insurance details and payment information
Health Information:
- Medical and dental history
- X-rays, imaging, and lab results
- Treatment notes and dental records
Digital Interactions:
- Information entered in our secure patient portal
- Responses to text message appointment reminders
- Communications through our website or email
2. How We Use Your Information
We use your information to:
- Deliver dental services and treatment
- Schedule appointments and send reminders (including text messages and emails)
- Process insurance claims and manage billing
- Maintain secure electronic records
- Provide access to your dental records through our online patient portal
- Improve patient experience and office operations
- Meet legal and regulatory obligations
3. Patient Portal and Text Messaging
Patient Portal
Our patient portal is a secure online system where you can:
- View upcoming appointments
- Access your dental records
- Update your contact information
- Communicate with our staff
Use of the portal requires a unique login and password. Please keep this information secure and contact us immediately if you suspect unauthorized access.
Text Message Reminders
We offer appointment and follow-up reminders via SMS. By providing your mobile number, you consent to receive text messages from us. Standard message and data rates may apply. You may opt out at any time by replying STOP to a message or contacting our office.
4. Sharing of Your Information
We only share your information when necessary and as permitted by law:
- With other healthcare providers for continuity of care
- With insurance companies for billing and claims
- With third-party vendors who support our systems (e.g., secure hosting)
- When legally required (e.g., public health reporting, subpoenas)
- With your written authorization for any other purpose
We never sell your personal or medical information.
5. Your Privacy Rights
You have the right to:
- Access your dental records
- Request corrections to your records
- Limit how we use or share your information
- Request confidential communications (e.g., by email or phone only)
- Receive a record of disclosures we've made, if applicable
To exercise these rights, please contact our office directly.
6. Data Security
We take your privacy seriously and use industry-standard safeguards to protect your data:
- Encrypted storage of digital records
- Secure patient portal access
- Staff training on privacy and HIPAA compliance
7. Changes to This Policy
We may update this policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. The most current version will always be posted on this page with the effective date at the top.
8. Contact Us
If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or how your information is handled, please contact us:
Smile Essentials
8200 E Belleview Ave, Suite 4335E
Greenwood Village, Colorado 80111
Phone: 303-779-9472
Email: info@smileessentialsdental.com
Website: www.smileessentialsdental.com