Minnesota Dental Jurisprudence Practice Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The consequence of failing to obtain informed consent from a patient primarily revolves around the legalities of patient rights and autonomy. Informed consent is a fundamental ethical and legal requirement in the healthcare field, ensuring that patients are fully aware of and understand the risks and benefits of a treatment before agreeing to it.

When a dentist does not secure informed consent, they may be vulnerable to a malpractice lawsuit if the patient experiences negative outcomes from the treatment. This obligation protects both the patient’s rights and the practitioner’s legal standing. The failure to obtain informed consent can highlight a breach of duty regarding the patient’s right to make informed choices about their own health care, which can lead to legal consequences.

This understanding is essential for dental professionals as it emphasizes the importance of communication and documentation in the patient-care process. Engaging with patients and ensuring they are well-informed not only helps build trust but also shields practitioners from potential legal liabilities.