Dentist Studio Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

   This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your personal information when you use our website, including our online booking form and contact/lead magnet form. We are committed to safeguarding your privacy in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) of South Africa.

   By using our website, you agree to the terms outlined in this Privacy Policy.

2. Information We Collect

   We may collect the following types of information through our website:

   • Personal details: such as your full name, email address, contact number, and any information you provide through the booking or contact forms.
   • Appointment information: such as preferred date, time, and reason for your visit.
   • Technical information: including IP address, browser type, and usage data collected via cookies or analytics tools to improve website functionality.

3. How We Use Your Information

   Your personal information is collected only for legitimate purposes, including:

   • Scheduling and confirming dental appointments.
   • Responding to your queries or requests made through our contact or lead magnet forms.
   • Sending relevant information, dental tips, or promotional material if you have opted in to receive communication.
   • Maintaining accurate records for administrative and operational purposes.
   • Complying with legal obligations under South African law.

4. How We Protect Your Information

   We implement reasonable, appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your personal data from:

   • Accidental loss, alteration, or destruction.

   These measures include:

   • Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encryption on all form submissions.
   • Restricted access to personal data within our practice.
   • Regular security and privacy audits.
   • Data storage on secure, access-controlled systems.
   
   Your data will not be sold, rented, or shared with third parties except as required by law or with your explicit consent.

5. Data Retention

   We retain personal information only as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this policy or as required by law.

   Once no longer needed, data is securely deleted or anonymized.

6. Your Rights Under POPIA

   As a data subject, you have the right to:

   • Request access to the personal information we hold about you.
   • Request correction or deletion of inaccurate, irrelevant, or excessive information.
   • Object to the processing of your personal data.
   • Withdraw consent at any time, where processing is based on consent.

   Requests can be made in writing to our Information Officer using the contact details provided below.

7. PAIA Manual Reference

   Our PAIA Manual, as required under the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA), outlines the procedure for requesting access to records and is available upon request from our Information Officer.

8. Third-Party Services

   Our website may use third-party tools (such as analytics or email marketing services). These providers are required to process information securely and in accordance with applicable data protection laws.

9. Cookies

   We use cookies to enhance website performance and user experience. You can manage or disable cookies through your browser settings, but this may affect certain website functionalities.

10. Updates to This Policy

    We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in legislation or operational practices. The latest version will always be available on our website.

11. By submitting any form on our website, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this Privacy Policy and consent to the processing of your personal information as described above.