How long should adult patient records be kept?

• A. 6 years from last treatment
• B. 7 years from last treatment
• C. 11 years from last treatment
• D. 15 years from last treatment

Answer: (C)

Keeping adult dental records for a set period after the last treatment is about having enough documentation to support ongoing care and to defend decisions if any concerns arise later. The recommended period of 11 years from the date of the last treatment is chosen because it provides a practical window to cover potential dental negligence claims, which are typically bound by limitation periods that may extend several years after treatment or discovery of harm. Having complete notes, radiographs, and consent forms available during this time helps ensure continuity of care for the patient and gives the clinician solid evidence if a claim or query is made years down the line. It also aligns with professional guidance that aims to balance the need to retain information for safety and accountability with the obligation to not hold data longer than necessary under data protection norms. When 11 years have passed since the last treatment, records can be securely disposed of unless there are exceptional reasons to retain them longer, such as ongoing care or health considerations. For patients who were minors at the time of last treatment, different retention rules apply, typically extending the period until the patient reaches adulthood or beyond.