Treatment choices

Deciding on the best choice of treatment can sometimes be difficult, especially when there is more than one appropriate clinical way forward. This article discusses the importance of involving the patient in the process and the role of the dental nurse as part of the treating team.

The potential dilemma

The need for treatment is clinically obvious. If a tooth is beyond repair, then it needs removal, an inflamed pulp requires root treatment, calculus must be scaled away and so on.

However, whilst the treatment we consider necessary may be appropriate to us, is it “right” for that individual patient at that time? To consider that potential dilemma it is worthwhile reviewing our professional responsibility when obtaining agreement and consent. The starting point should be the General Dental Council guidance.