Patient Consent in Dentistry: Are we Legally Safe?

Abstract

ABSTRACT As with other walks of life the profession of dentistry saw unprecedented change during the last century. Amongst other things, litigation, which is a part of everyday life, has evolved and spread its growing influence on dentistry. Though the litigation and claims are prevalent in almost all countries however, the western countries have been at the forefront of Dental negligence claims. In a way, it is a sign of an informed and mature society. Dentistry in India has been relatively immune to the effects of litigation against dental professionals for a multitude of reasons. But its will not be long before it envelops every aspect of dentistry in India. Dental legislation has its pros and cons; it serves to be a system, which protects patients as well as professionals, but as with other spheres of law, will be subjected to abuse. This article attempts to address the core issue of patient consent, which is where the majority of dental negligence claims arise.