Ethics & Law · single question
An elderly patient in a long-term care facility has untreated caries, calculus, and no dental care. Most appropriate action?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Report as elder neglect
Failure to provide adequate dental care to a dependent elderly person constitutes elder neglect — dentists are mandated reporters with ethical and legal obligations.
- A. ❌ Contacting family does not fulfill the reporting obligation.
- B. ❌ Treating is appropriate but does not address the underlying neglect.
- C. ✅ CORRECT – This is elder neglect; dentists are mandated reporters and must report.
- D. ❌ Documentation without reporting is insufficient.