Ensuring Ethical Dental Care: Obtaining Legal Consent for Nonverbal Adults
TDIC Risk Management Staff
Journal of the California Dental Association, 28 July 2023
Excerpt
When it comes to dental treatment, the importance of obtaining proper, legal consent cannot be overstated. Dentists often face unique challenges in obtaining consent to treat adults who are nonverbal or unable to provide consent on their own due to cognitive impairments or advanced age.
The Dentists Insurance Company Risk Management Advice Line, which provides guidance to TDIC policyholders and dental association members, regularly receives inquiries about the appropriate procedures for obtaining consent to treat adults with special needs. The following case study illustrates the need for compassionate care and vigilance to ensure valid consent is obtained…
Center for Informed Consent Integrity 