Patient rights and consent

1Your rights

• Information. You are told your diagnosis, the proposed treatment, the likely benefits and risks, the alternatives and the expected cost, in words you understand.
• Consent. Nothing is started without your agreement. For procedures with real risks, your consent is recorded in your file. A parent or guardian consents for a child.
• Your records. You may ask for your records, reports, X-rays and prescriptions, and we provide them.
• Second opinion. You may consult another dentist at any time, and we will share your records for that purpose.
• Clear costs. You receive a written estimate before treatment and an itemised receipt after payment.
• Privacy. Your record is confidential. See our privacy notice.
• Respect. You are treated with dignity and without discrimination.
• Safety. Instruments are sterilised and treatment follows accepted clinical practice.
• Medicines. You may buy prescribed medicines from a pharmacy of your choice.
• Say so. You may raise a concern or complaint and get a reply. See Contact and grievance.

2How we handle consent

Your dentist explains the plan at the chair. For treatments that need it, you sign a consent form in the clinic before starting. Consent is for a specific treatment, and you can change your mind before it begins.

3What we ask of you

• Give us complete and accurate information, including your medical history, allergies and any medicines you take.
• Tell us if you do not understand something, and ask questions.
• Follow the care instructions you agree to, and tell us if you cannot.
• Keep appointments, or cancel in good time so another patient can have the slot.
• Settle the agreed fees.
• Treat staff and other patients with courtesy.

4Our dentists

Our dentists’ qualifications and registration numbers are on the home page. Registration can be verified with the State Dental Council.