Informed consent is not legally valid unless the dentist informs the patient of what?

• A. Alternative options
• B. Costs
• C. Possible complications
• D. Prognosis

Answer: (A)

Understanding informed consent means the patient can make a free, knowledgeable choice about care. A crucial part of that is clearly presenting the options available, including what would happen if no treatment is chosen. This lets the patient compare paths and decide what best fits their needs and values. Without outlining alternative options, the patient isn’t really able to weigh the choices, so the consent isn’t considered fully valid in law.

Costs, possible complications, and prognosis are important pieces of information and may be discussed, but they don’t on their own fulfill the requirement to present alternatives. The key element that makes the consent truly informed is informing the patient about the alternative options available, including doing nothing.