At Smiles by the River, we are dedicated to safeguarding your personal information and ensuring your privacy is protected. This policy explains how we collect, use, and secure the information you provide both through our website and in our Battersea practice.
Information We Collect
We may collect personal details such as:
• Your name, address, and contact information (including phone number and email address).
• Medical history and details of any medications you are taking.
• Payment and billing information.
• Records of your visits, including clinical notes, X-rays, photographs, and treatment plans.
How We Use Your Information
We use your information to:
• Provide exceptional dental care and treatment.
• Manage your appointments and send reminders via email or SMS (with your consent).
• Process payments for our services.
• Comply with legal and regulatory obligations, including maintaining accurate medical records.
• Improve our services and personalize your experience with us.
• For marketing purposes only, and solely with your explicit consent (for example, by sharing anonymized images of your smile).
Data Protection and Security
We store your information securely in compliance with the Data Protection Act and GDPR:
• All patient details are maintained on a secure computer system.
• Only authorized personnel have access to your information, and our staff undergo regular data protection training.
• We will never sell, distribute, or lease your personal data to third parties unless you have given us permission or are required to do so by law.
Use of Images and X-rays
With your consent, we may use anonymized images and X-rays for marketing or educational purposes. Your name or identity will never be disclosed. If you prefer that your images are not used, please let us know and we will respect your wishes.
Cookies and Website Data
Our website may use cookies—small text files placed on your device—to enhance your browsing experience, analyze traffic, and understand how visitors interact with our site.
• You can choose to accept or decline cookies by adjusting your browser settings.
Your Rights
You have the right to:
• Access the personal information we hold about you.
• Request corrections to any inaccurate or incomplete information.
• Withdraw your consent for marketing communications at any time.
• Request that we delete your personal information, subject to legal and regulatory obligations regarding record retention.
To exercise your rights or request a copy of your records, please contact us in writing.
Contacting You
We may contact you via email, SMS, or phone for appointment reminders or routine follow-ups. If you prefer not to receive these communications, please let our reception team know at your next visit or contact us directly.
Complaints
If you believe your privacy has been compromised, please contact our Patient Care Department at info@smilesbytheriver.com or write to our Practice Manager. We will acknowledge your complaint promptly and aim to resolve it within two weeks. If you are not satisfied with our response, you may escalate your complaint to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
Updates to This Policy
We may update this privacy policy periodically to reflect changes in legislation or our practice. The latest version will always be available on our website.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about this privacy policy or how we handle your data, please contact us at:
Email: info@smilesbytheriver.com
