Policy on the Ethical Responsibilities in the Oral Health Care Management of Infants, Children, Adolescents, and Individuals with Special Health Care Needs

Policy statement

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry affirms the right of all infants and children through adolescence, including those with special health care needs, to receive oral health care consistent with moral, ethical, legal, and evidence-based standards of care. The AAPD maintains that neglecting a disease or condition based on the patient’s age, behavior, inability to cooperate, disability, or medical status is unethical. If a dentist cannot provide medically-necessary care, he has an ethical duty to refer the patient to a qualified practitioner or facility.

The AAPD emphasizes the ethical obligation of dentists to secure informed consent from patients/parents. Ethical care also includes obtaining assent prior to treatment from those pediatric patients who possess the cognitive maturity to engage in and understand treatment planning decisions.

The AAPD encourages oral health care professionals to adhere to established standards and evidence-based clinical practice recommendations developed by organizations with recognized professional expertise and stature. Furthermore, the AAPD supports the autonomy of dentists to use their professional clinical judgment, without undue influence or interference from third parties, in providing treatment to patients.

The AAPD encourages oral health care professionals who possess the necessary training and expertise to provide second opinions regarding diagnosis and treatment of the specific condition for which counsel is being pursued.