A 23-year-old female patient arrives with an unidentified male companion. She avoids eye contact and appears uncomfortable. The companion insists on staying in the room throughout the procedure. Most appropriate action?

Correct answer: C. Provide the patient with the human trafficking/abuse helpline number and offer confidential assistance

• A. Passively monitoring without offering any support delays appropriate intervention for a patient who may be at risk.
• B. Calling the police immediately without further assessment/evidence is a disproportionate first response that could also escalate danger to the patient.
• C. Correct. The appropriate, safe, and confidential first step is to find a private moment to offer the patient resources/helpline information and assistance without confronting the companion directly, which protects the patient while avoiding escalation.
• D. Ignoring clear warning signs of potential abuse/trafficking fails the dentist's duty of care.

Note: If the patient explicitly says 'HELP' or directly discloses danger, contact authorities immediately.