What should a dentist do after a patient signs a general consent for the proposed treatment?

After a patient signs a general consent for the proposed treatment, it is essential for the dentist to maintain the original consent as it is a legal document that outlines the patient's agreement to the planned treatment. This consent serves as a record of what the patient agrees to and reflects the understanding between the patient and the dentist at the time of signing.

The signed consent is intended to cover the general treatment planned, but if there are significant changes in the treatment plan or new decisions arise, the dentist should not simply alter the original consent. Instead, it is best practice to obtain a new consent form that reflects these changes, ensuring that the patient is fully informed and agreeable to any new aspects of their treatment. This safeguards both the dentist and the patient, establishing clear documentation of the consent process.

Maintaining the original consent as it stands, without making edits, is critical because it preserves the integrity of the patient’s decision-making process and reduces the risk of misunderstandings regarding the patient’s approvals and choices. This approach also emphasizes the ethical necessity of informed consent, which is fundamental in the dental profession.