The dentist is required to furnish dental records or copies of them to the patient’s new dentist.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only upon patient request
• D. Never

Answer: (A)

Continuity of care means the next dentist needs a complete picture of the patient’s prior treatment. When a patient switches to a new dentist, the current dentist is expected to provide the patient’s records or copies so the new provider can review past findings, diagnoses, treatments, and radiographs. This transfer is supported by patient ownership of their information and professional responsibility to ensure safe, informed care; it typically happens with proper authorization and within a reasonable time. Privacy rules allow sharing with another licensed healthcare provider to support ongoing treatment, so furnishing the records is required.