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Orthodontic Consent Form

This a blog about the one resource that almost all general dentists have asked us for... the orthodontic consent form! Use this free resource to inform patients and help protect yourself professionally.


Unable to find recent statistics on the state of dental negligence claims, we came across this article on the Dental Protection website which is about claims made for root resorption in patients receiving orthodontic treatment from dentists. I thought the most interesting finding was that in 50% of claims, "alleged failings in the consent process were a dominant factor". This tells us that one of three scenarios is arising:

  • patients are not told about risks

  • patients are told about risks but the process is not documented

  • patients are told about risks, the process is documented, but the patient has not understood.


50% of claims were due to alleged failings in the consent process as a dominant factor

This is very worrying from a clinician's point of view. Given the rise in orthodontic treatment, the increased visibility (or maybe availability?) of dental negligence claims firms, and the impending financial crisis, there is a very real possibility that we will see an increase in the number of claims being brought against dentists.


So there is no better time to get your ducks in a row. In other words, make sure that you are practising safely, picking the right cases and delivering the entire treatment process in the right way.


Most dentists just want to provide nice treatment for their patients, so it would be a shame to have an avoidable claim raised against you.


Having a sound consent process is central to this. and the consent form simply helps to document this key component of treatment delivery. The form can act as a guide to the discussion you should have with patients, and is not a standalone get out of jail card!


Our form has several key components

  • List of our commonly used appliances

  • Lists standard orthodontic risks & benefits

  • Allows for insertion of anything specific to the patient

  • Guides the patient to the BOS website for further information.

  • Includes the treatment fee.

Sign in for free on on the Resources page to access the Orthodontic Consent Form.


Orthodontic Learning Points

  • Consent failings are a key part of negligence claims

  • A good consent form can help to protect you

  • Consent forms are just a part of the consent process


How can Orthodontia help you?


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