Bridging the Know-Do Gap in Dentistry: Rethinking Informed Consent

The change in attitude of patients with emphasis on being involved and informed of every aspect of care is not only apparent in adults but also when providing care for children and young adults. It is important for the dentist to be well informed of the fundamental process of informed consent, which exists under the law in order to provide care within the legal framework. The important issue when obtaining consent is competence of the patients to give consent. The burden is on the dental professional to ensure that the patient understands the treatment options. Informed consent decreases the practitioners liability from claims associated with miscommunication. It does not shift the whole responsibility to the patient but should be a partnership between a clinician and a patient in which each has rights and defined responsibilities.