Who owns the dental radiographs taken during a patient’s visit?

The ownership of dental radiographs is typically attributed to the dentist or the dental practice that performed the radiographic procedure. This is because the images are considered part of the patient's dental record, which is maintained by the dental provider. While patients have the right to access their radiographs and may request copies, the actual ownership lies with the dentist, who is responsible for the interpretation and management of those images.

Dental providers are also tasked with safeguarding these records in accordance with privacy laws and professional standards, reinforcing their position as the owners of the radiographs. This ownership implies an obligation to maintain the integrity and confidentiality of the images while providing patients with necessary information about their oral health.

In contrast, patients may view their radiographs as they are utilized for their treatment, but they do not own the physical images. Similarly, insurance companies and dental assistants do not have ownership rights over the radiographs; the insurance may only require access for billing and claims purposes, while assistants do not have ownership responsibilities for patient records. This understanding is important for navigating patient rights and provider responsibilities within dental practice.