SMS Text Messaging Policy

1. Consent to Receive SMS Messages

By providing your mobile phone number and opting in to our SMS messaging service, you consent to receive text messages from Tidewater Family Dentistry. Your consent is voluntary and not a condition of treatment.

SMS consent is collected separately from general appointment or treatment consent.

2. Types of SMS Messages We Send

If you opt in, you may receive the following types of text messages:

We do not send marketing or promotional SMS messages.

3. Message Frequency

The frequency of SMS messages will vary based on your appointment schedule and practice communications. You may receive:

• Appointment reminders 1-7 days before your scheduled visit
• Occasional follow-up messages after procedures
• Periodic practice updates (typically no more than 2-4 per month)

4. Standard Messaging Rates

Please note: Standard text messaging rates charged by your mobile carrier may apply to messages sent to and received from Tidewater Family Dentistry.

We are not responsible for any charges incurred from SMS communications, including:

• Message and data rates from your mobile carrier
• Roaming charges if you receive messages while traveling
• Overage charges from limited data plans

5. How to Opt In

You can opt in to receive SMS messages by:

• Providing your mobile phone number to our front desk staff
• Checking the SMS opt-in box on new patient forms
• Replying "YES" to an initial opt-in message from our practice

You will receive a confirmation message once you have successfully opted in.

7. Data Privacy & Security

Your mobile phone number and SMS consent preferences are:

• Stored securely in our practice management system
• Protected under our Privacy Policy and HIPAA regulations
• Not sold or shared with third parties for marketing purposes

For more information, please review our Privacy Policy.

8.aird

Please note that SMS is not a secure method of communication for sensitive health information. We will never ask for sensitive personal information (such as Social Security numbers or detailed medical information) via text message.

If you need to share sensitive information with us, please use our secure phone line or contact us through our contact form.

9. Service Availability

SMS messaging services are available during regular office hours. Emergency dental situations should not be communicated via SMS. For emergencies, please call us directly at (757) 320-9780 or proceed to your nearest emergency room.

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this SMS Policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page with an updated revision date. We will notify you of material changes via SMS or other communication methods.

11. Contact Us

If you have questions about our SMS messaging service or this policy, please contact us: