[Digital data management in the orthodontic practice: legal obligations]

The digital era opens up the field of possibilities: web, e-mail, networks, optical fingerprints, digital storage... It will then be possible to optimize the use of the digital tool for both data collection and storage, information transfer, restitution, implementation of electronic signature, preservation of digital model... However, it must not alter the practitioner's care for his patients. Indeed, securing patients' medical data is an integral part of their care. Even if it is immaterial, their protection as to be effective, even at the physical level. The aim of this article is to list our obligations towards the virtual tool, the management modalities to avoid any prejudice. The research of the texts was carried out on Legifrance, CNIL, Pubmed and the jurisprudence. The authorization to collect data and the possibility to transfer them to a third part is mandatory. The conservation of these data in adequate conditions, both physical and digital, is essential to avoid the loss of the data and the consequent sanctions. The security of medical data requires the protection of the premises, computers and the Internet tool. The implementation of regulated protocols is the only guarantee of data security and good faith in front of the judge in case of loss. It requires the involvement of the entire healthcare team to implement effective procedures.