A patient comes for a second opinion. The previous dentist told him he needs six fillings. On examination you find a single incipient occlusal lesion. What should you do?

Correct answer: C. Explain that diagnostic judgements can differ between clinicians, and treat what your own examination supports

• A. Encouraging a board complaint on the basis of a diagnostic disagreement is disproportionate and unfair to the other dentist. Reporting is warranted for genuine fraud or gross negligence, not for a difference of clinical opinion.
• B. Sending him back defeats the entire purpose of a second opinion and abandons a patient who came to you for an independent assessment.
• C. CORRECT. Present YOUR findings honestly and objectively, explain that clinicians legitimately differ in caries-detection thresholds and in when they choose to intervene versus monitor, and proceed with what your own examination supports. This respects VERACITY toward the patient without making an unfounded accusation about a colleague you have not spoken to and whose radiographs and records you have not seen.
• D. Providing restorations you do not believe are indicated violates non-maleficence and constitutes supervised neglect of your own judgement.

Note: Balance the duties: veracity to the patient, non-maleficence in avoiding unnecessary treatment, and professional courtesy toward a colleague. Documenting your own findings thoroughly protects everyone.