A dentist asks a new patient, 'Is it okay if I take a look at your teeth?' before performing a clinical examination. The patient says yes. What type of consent has been obtained?

Correct answer: B. Informed verbal consent

• A. Expressed consent for treatment would imply consent for the full treatment plan, not just the examination. The consent here was specifically for the examination ('look at your teeth').
• B. CORRECT. When the dentist verbally asks permission and the patient verbally agrees, this constitutes INFORMED VERBAL CONSENT. The dentist disclosed what will be done ('take a look at your teeth') and the patient verbally expressed agreement. Verbal consent is legally valid for routine examination procedures, though written consent is preferred for procedures with higher risk.
• C. Written informed consent involves a signed document and is required for surgical procedures, sedation, and higher-risk treatments — not routine examination.
• D. Implied consent arises from the patient's actions — e.g., opening the mouth and sitting in the dental chair without being asked explicitly. In this case, verbal communication was exchanged, making it expressed (verbal) consent, not merely implied.