A child's best interests

The issue of who can consent for treatment in children can be a difficult one to judge. Unless in an emergency, only someone with parental responsibility – or authorisation from a parent – can consent to children not old enough to make decision about their own care. We would urge dentists to exercise caution and ask for written confirmation where doubt exists over who has parental responsibility.

We have encountered cases where a child is brought to the practice by a foster parent or relative and there is uncertainty in determining who has parental consent. It can be a complex area and we would advise caution and even withholding treatment if any doubt exists until the information is provided in writing. It is important to remember the basic principle that, generally, only a person with what is known as ‘parental responsibility’ can consent to a child's dental treatment (assuming the child does not have the capacity to give consent themselves).