The purpose of this Technical Report is to provide a common basis for the communication of the recording of oral status and care in such a way that:

• communication be facilitated between professionals, irrespective of their country of practice;
• the collection of forensic evidence be facilitated;
• information be more readily available for monitoring the oral health of the public, planning future needs in the professional work force and preventive measures, etc.;
• guidance for compatibility of computer software in dealing with the management and practice of dentistry be provided;
• it may provide data in the planning and management of health insurance systems and organizations;
• it may be convenient for the post-marketing surveillance and performance evaluation of dental materials and procedures;
• a basis for the classification and marking of dental instruments, items of equipment, materials and devices is provided.