An 80-year-old patient visits the clinic with their adult son. The patient states they came for a cleaning, and the son says the patient has dementia but has been doing 'well.' The patient appears coherent and can consent. What is the most appropriate action?

A diagnosis of dementia does not automatically eliminate a patient's capacity to consent to dental treatment. Dental capacity is decision-specific and fluctuates — if the patient appears coherent, understands the procedure, and can communicate consent, they retain the right to make decisions about their care. The appropriate approach is to obtain informed consent from the patient (and include the son as a supportive party), perform the requested prophylaxis, and discuss findings with both the patient and son. Refusing care due to a dementia diagnosis alone would be discriminatory. The patient's expressed wishes and best interests guide care.