A patient presents with poor dental work from their previous dentist. What is the MOST appropriate approach?

Correct answer: B. Inform the patient that treatment is needed and proceed without negative commentary about the prior dentist

• A. Refusing to treat the patient would be abandonment and is ethically inappropriate.
• B. The ethical and professional approach is to assess the patient's needs, inform them of what treatment is required, and provide care WITHOUT making negative judgments about the previous dentist's work. You may document findings objectively but should not editorialize. ✓
• C. Criticizing the previous dentist is unprofessional. Dentists have an ethical obligation not to disparage colleagues — this can constitute defamation and violates professional codes.
• D. Referring the patient back to the previous dentist is not appropriate when the patient is seeking care and treatment is clearly needed.