PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY AND DENTAL RECORDS - LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: In the practice of dentistry, the dentist may be held responsible for their actions or omissions that result in damage to their patients. Such responsibility may occur in the ethical, civil and criminal spheres, among others. Over the years, the society and the professional-patient relationship have changed supported by current legislations, as well as increased information and communication. So, we have witnessed an increasing number of disputes in court involving dentists and theirs patients, which reveals the importance of professionals to know the regulations in the practice of dentistry and the consequences of the illegal act. Objective: The present study aimed to provide knowledge, through a literature review, on the legal aspect of professional responsibility of the dental surgeon and to highlight the importance of dental documentation as a means of proving professional performance. Methods: It was used books, theses and scientific papers published in electronic databases such as SciELO, Bireme, MedLine and Lilacs, in Portuguese language, besides laws and regulations published in official electronic addresses. Conclusions: It was concluded that an adequate medical record protects the professional; as documentation fails, compromises all work done and may result in condemnation.