Abstract:
Over-servicing in dentistry has been widely reported on and
censured due to the potential physical, social and financial
harms it can cause a patient. In contrast, under-treatment
is less often noticed or raised as a concern as it seldom
presents with overt signs of carelessness or disregard. In
addition, it is usually not accompanied by any time or financial
burdens, thus patients rarely complain about it. While some
practitioners may argue that failure to treat is a form of
negligence, this paper will explore if, and when it could be
justified. While practitioners may never reach a consensus
agreement, the ultimate message is that all treatment should
be patient centred and should only commence following their
educated, considered, autonomous, and voluntary consent.
