When treating a two-year-old child, if parental consent was obtained verbally rather than written, what is the best practice?

Obtaining written consent before starting treatment is the best practice when dealing with a two-year-old child, even if verbal consent has been given. Written consent serves multiple crucial purposes in dental practice. It provides a clear and formal record that consent was obtained, which can protect both the provider and the patient's family in the event of any disputes or miscommunications later on.

In pediatric dentistry, it is essential to have properly documented consent due to the vulnerable nature of the patient involved and the complexities that can arise with parental rights and responsibilities. Written consent helps ensure that all parties understand the specifics of the treatment being provided, including potential risks and benefits. Furthermore, written documentation aligns with legal and ethical guidelines, which emphasize the importance of thorough record-keeping in healthcare settings.

This approach also promotes transparency and trust between the dental provider and the parents, fostering a stronger relationship that can benefit the child's ongoing dental care. While verbal consent can be sufficient in some urgent or emergency situations, it is considered best practice to obtain written consent to uphold professional standards, particularly in non-emergency scenarios involving minors.