Cementation and Intra-Treatment Consent

Dentistry is an imperfect science by nature. Even if you achieve perfection, a patient could still complain to a State Board or file a civil lawsuit alleging negligence. Therefore, we recommend transparency and insightful communication throughout the restorative process to keep patients informed and responsible for their decisions to proceed at different stages of complicated care. Multiple consents at critical stages in the treatment are recommended.

Consent for Intra-Treatment Steps and Final Cementation of Permanent Prosthetic Restorations

You’re in the final stages of an implant hybrid prosthesis, eight upper anterior veneers, or an upper or lower anterior bridge. A common aspect of all these treatment modalities is that they are time-consuming for you and your patient, costly, involve aesthetic considerations, and may lead to patient dissatisfaction.

Complications may have arisen during the process. Before finalizing the finished prosthesis, take the time to secure the patient’s informed consent regarding the color (shade), feel, shape, and overall appearance of the restoration(s).

Once the patient has consented to all the above, it is time to obtain consent for final cementation. This is a critical step in helping to mitigate a “buyer’s remorse” situation after permanently setting the prosthesis in place. Mitigating patient disputes regarding the subjective esthetic result of a fixed prosthodontic restoration with intra-treatment and final cementation consents is prudent practice management.

The Final Conversation and What Elements to Focus On

The final cementation conversation and associated informed consent should focus on the following elements:

1. Remind the patient that final cementation is permanent.
2. Discuss with the patient that subsequent removal for a re-make may result in irreversible harm to the affected tooth.
3. Reconfirm with the patient their satisfaction with the following upon viewing the restoration in place within the dentition:
   1. Shade
   2. Shape
   3. Look and feel
   4. Overall appearance
4. Emphasize to the patient that now is the time to discuss any changes they want made.
5. Discuss the financial obligations of post-cementation change requests.
6. Review the consent form with the patient and address all their questions.

The patient’s acknowledgment of the content of the consent forms and signature on the form are prerequisites for final cementation. Spending a little time conversing with your patient before permanent cementation helps avoid subsequent buyer’s remorse.

If you are not insured with DentistCare, A ProAssurance Program, feel free to complete this form to find out more about our coverage and get a quote!

The information contained on the DentistCare Blog does not establish a standard of care, nor does it constitute legal advice. The information is for general informational purposes only. We encourage all blog visitors to consult with their personal attorneys for legal advice, as specific legal requirements may vary from state to state. Links or references to organizations, websites, or other information is for reference use only and do not constitute the rendering of legal, financial, or other professional advice or recommendations. All information contained on the blog is subject to change.