Is verbal consent enough for procedures such as an occlusal composite or an extraction?

In the context of dental procedures, informed consent is a fundamental ethical and legal requirement. For treatments such as occlusal composites and extractions, it is crucial that patients fully understand the nature of the procedure, its benefits, potential risks, and alternatives before giving consent.

While verbal consent may be sufficient in some less invasive situations, it does not meet the standard for more invasive procedures like extractions. The complexity and potential risks associated with extractions require a higher level of consent documentation to ensure that patients are fully informed about the implications of the procedure. This is aligned with best practices in dentistry, which emphasize the importance of obtaining written informed consent for more invasive or higher-risk treatments.

Verbal consent can be seen as inadequate for these procedures, primarily because it lacks the formal documentation that protects both the patient and the clinician. Therefore, the assertion that verbal consent is adequate for both occlusal composites and extractions is false, affirming that a more comprehensive approach to obtaining consent is necessary for these types of interventions. This upholds the integrity of the dental practice and fosters trust in the patient-provider relationship.