Ethics & Law · single question
When a dentist decides to upgrade a service (e.g., use a better material at no extra charge), whom should they inform?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. The patient — inform them of the upgrade and explain it is at no extra cost
This tests the principle of no-surprise care and patient autonomy. When a dentist makes any change to planned treatment — even a beneficial one — the patient should be informed. Upgrading a material at no extra cost should still be communicated to maintain transparency, respect autonomy, and ensure informed consent. The patient has a right to know what is being placed in their mouth regardless of cost.
- A. ✅ CORRECT – Inform the patient of the upgrade and that it is at no additional cost. Transparency and autonomy require the patient be told about changes to their treatment.
- B. ❌ Even routine clinical decisions that affect the patient should be communicated to respect their autonomy.
- C. ❌ The lab is informed as part of the prescription/work order — but the patient is the primary person to inform.
- D. ❌ The insurance company does not need to be primarily notified about a material upgrade at no extra charge.