Direct interaction with the dentist is important for valid consent

Have you given valid, informed consent?

You need to have been given all the information about what the treatment involves. This includes the benefits and risks, and whether there are any other treatments options.

Before your treatment can begin, the dentist needs to make sure you have given valid, informed consent. That is impossible without some form of direct interaction as you need to be able to ask questions. This doesn't need to be in person - it could take place remotely, for example over the phone or on a video call.

Some questions to help you think about this

• Have I had the opportunity to ask questions that might help me to make my decision?
• Do I fully understand what I am signing up for and how the treatment will work?
• If there are treatment options, have these been explained to me?
• Do I understand the likely or possible outcomes of the treatment?
• Will the results be permanent?
• How long will the treatment take to finish?
• If there are risks, have these been explained to me?
• What happens if I’m not happy with the outcome?
• Do I feel like I’m being put under pressure to decide quickly?