If a patient forgets to bring payment for services rendered but the crown fits well, what should you do?

Seating the crown if it fits well is appropriate in this scenario because the patient's financial oversight does not directly impact the quality or fit of the dental work completed. The crown being well-fitted indicates that the procedure was successful and conforms to the necessary standards of dental care.

Addressing the financial aspect separately ensures that the patient receives the benefit of the treatment they have already received while maintaining a professional relationship. It may be advisable to discuss the payment issue with the patient after the crown is seated, as this reflects an understanding and consideration of their situation. This approach aligns with patient-centered care principles, where the well-being of the patient is prioritized while still expecting compensation for services eventually.

Instructing the patient to pay before receiving treatment can sometimes be appropriate, but in this situation, since the service has already been rendered successfully, it is more equitable to provide the crown and handle payment afterward. This maintains the trust and communication necessary in a dentist-patient relationship, which is vital for ongoing care and future treatments.