At what age can a patient of sound mind consent to treatment?

• A. 14 years
• B. 18 years
• C. 21 years
• D. 16 years

Answer: (D)

Consent hinges on the patient’s ability to understand the proposed treatment, its risks, benefits, and alternatives, and to appreciate the consequences of not having the treatment. When someone is of sound mind and can grasp these points, they can give valid consent. In dental practice, the usual age when a patient can consent to treatment is 16 years. At this age (and for those 16 or older who have capacity), parental consent is not required for the patient to consent themselves. Younger patients may still have the right to consent if they demonstrate sufficient understanding (Gillick competence), but the standard age threshold being tested here is 16.