What is History of Dental Record-Keeping?

Dental record-keeping has evolved dramatically over centuries — from simple handwritten notes and wax impressions to standardized paper charts, and now to sophisticated electronic health records (EHR). Early dentists relied on personal notebooks, while the 20th century introduced carbon copy forms and standardized charting. The digital revolution brought computerized records in the 1990s, followed by cloud-based systems that enable real-time access from any device. This evolution has improved accuracy, security, legal compliance, and continuity of patient care across providers.