Resumo

AMORIM, Haylla Priscilla de Lima et al. The importance of the appropriate completion of dental records to avoid lawsuits in Dentistry. Arq. Odontol. [online]. 2016, vol.52, n.1, pp. 32-37. ISSN 1516-0939.

Aim: This study aimed to review the literature, seeking to guide professionals and students in dentistry for the preparation of clinical documents that make up patient dental records in an attempt to avoid lawsuits. Methods: This study starts with the analysis of an appropriate preparation, interview, clinical examination, treatment plan, evolution and complications, service contract, preparation of certificates, and dental revenues, as well as the free and informed consent form and the archiving of laboratory tests. A literature review in the main health databases was carried out (Lilacs, Pubmed and Scielo), using as keywords "professional practice", "liability", and "dental ethics", between 1996 and 2014 in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. Books from the Library of the State University of Feira de Santana (UEFS) were also consulted. Conclusion: It is necessary to establish a relationship of trust and friendship throughout the treatment, always informing and being transparent in one's actions, as well as to maintain a detailed clinical examination and an updated and organized dental record in such a way that it does not compromise the validity of the records from a legal standpoint.

Palavras-chave : Professional practice.; Legal liability.; Dental ethics..