What consent is needed for before/after photos?

For general dentists and prosthodontists, before/after documentation is central to case marketing and lab collaboration. A written photo release needs to name the specific channels where images will appear: your practice website, social media, printed materials, dental lab case presentations, or continuing education lectures. A blanket release that says "educational purposes" has been challenged in state dental board complaints when images later appeared in paid advertising. Each channel should be listed or the release will not hold under scrutiny.

The release must also state whether the patient's face, smile only, or full profile is being captured, and whether the images will be shared with third parties such as the dental lab that fabricated the case. When Dani Dental receives case photos for shade verification or quality review, those images move outside the practice. Your release language should anticipate that. Most state dental boards require photo releases to be retained for the same period as the clinical record, typically 7-10 years depending on jurisdiction.

If a patient is a minor, a parent or legal guardian must sign. Revocation rights should be stated plainly: the patient can withdraw consent, but images already distributed in print cannot always be recalled. Review your photo release template with a dental attorney every 2-3 years, especially if you are expanding into new marketing channels or joining a DSO that aggregates case libraries across locations.