Ms. Elena, a 39-year-old teacher, visits your clinic with a three-month history of severe localized gum pain in the upper right quadrant. She also reports difficulty chewing and intermittent bleeding from the gums. She has no history of smoking, maintains a regular brushing routine, and has no systemic conditions. However, due to her demanding teaching schedule, she has a high-sugar diet with frequent snacking. Clinical examination reveals localized probing depths of 7–8 mm around the upper right molars, suppuration, and Grade II mobility.
A periapical radiograph reveals a suspected endodontic lesion on the upper first molar with associated vertical bone loss. Ms. Elena expresses dissatisfaction with her previous dentist, who recommended extraction but did not explain the rationale or alternatives. She feels anxious about her prognosis and seeks a detailed explanation of her condition, treatment options, and emotional reassurance.
Question 3 : If the affected tooth is deemed non-restorable, how should you present prosthetic options to Ms. Elena ethically?
Correct Answer: c) Provide all possible options, including risks, benefits, and costs, and allow Ms. Elena to make an informed decision
Justifications:
- a) Recommend immediate extraction and placement of a removable partial denture: This may be an option, but presenting it as the only choice limits her autonomy and does not account for her preferences or long-term needs.
- b) Suggest extraction and immediate implant placement without discussing alternatives: Implant placement may not align with Ms. Elena’s financial or functional priorities. Failing to discuss alternatives violates ethical principles of informed consent.
- c) Provide all possible options: Correct. Ethical care requires full disclosure of all viable options, including extraction, RPDs, overdentures, and implants, with transparent discussions of costs and outcomes. This approach respects Ms. Elena’s autonomy and builds trust.
- d) Delay the discussion until Ms. Elena consents to extraction: Postponing the conversation adds unnecessary stress and delays her decision-making.
- e) Prioritize aesthetic outcomes over function: Aesthetic outcomes are important but secondary to functionality and informed consent.
Correct Answer: c) Provide all possible options, including risks, benefits, and costs, and allow Ms. Elena to make an informed decision
Justifications:
- a) Recommend immediate extraction and placement of a removable partial denture: This may be an option, but presenting it as the only choice limits her autonomy and does not account for her preferences or long-term needs.
- b) Suggest extraction and immediate implant placement without discussing alternatives: Implant placement may not align with Ms. Elena’s financial or functional priorities. Failing to discuss alternatives violates ethical principles of informed consent.
- c) Provide all possible options: Correct. Ethical care requires full disclosure of all viable options, including extraction, RPDs, overdentures, and implants, with transparent discussions of costs and outcomes. This approach respects Ms. Elena’s autonomy and builds trust.
- d) Delay the discussion until Ms. Elena consents to extraction: Postponing the conversation adds unnecessary stress and delays her decision-making.
- e) Prioritize aesthetic outcomes over function: Aesthetic outcomes are important but secondary to functionality and informed consent.