What must dentists disclose to patients regarding treatment options?

Dentists are required to provide their patients with a comprehensive understanding of all available treatment options. This obligation is rooted in the principle of informed consent, which emphasizes that patients have the right to be fully informed about their treatment choices to make educated decisions regarding their healthcare.

By disclosing all treatment options, dentists ensure that patients can weigh the pros and cons of each method, consider the associated risks, benefits, and costs, and choose what they believe is best for their circumstances. This practice not only fosters transparency but also strengthens the patient-dentist relationship based on trust and mutual respect.

The other options fall short of the ethical and legal responsibilities inherent in patient care. Limiting the disclosure to only the most expensive options would misrepresent the full scope of choices available and could lead to financial strain or dissatisfaction for the patient. Focusing solely on the option the dentist deems best might overlook the patient's preferences or values, which are crucial in shared decision-making. Lastly, confining the discussion to procedures approved by the insurance company may prevent patients from exploring viable alternatives that could better suit their needs or desires. Overall, ensuring patients are aware of all available treatment options empowers them to make informed choices about their oral health.