As a patient, you play a central role in your dental care. Knowing your rights ensure you receive the highest standard of care, while understanding your responsibilities helps foster a respectful, productive relationship with your dentist. This guide outlines both, as adopted by the American Dental Association (ADA), and why they matter.

Patient Rights

As a dental patient, you are entitled to:

• Choose your dentist and schedule appointments in a timely manner.

• Know your dentist’s education and training, as well as that of the dental team.

• See the dentist during treatment (except where state law may provide otherwise).

• Receive clear communication about your condition and treatment plan, with ample time for questions.

• Be informed of optimal and alternative treatment options—including expected outcomes and risks.

• Understand continuing health care needs, including future oral hygiene practices.

• Receive a cost estimate before treatment begins.

• Accept, defer, or decline any treatment, without pressure.

• Access emergency dental care when needed.

• Be treated with respect, confidentiality, and professionalism.

• Trust in sterilization and infection control standards.

• Ask about ways to resolve disputes, if they arise.

These rights ensure transparency, respect, and quality care every step of the way.

Your Responsibilities as a Patient

Along with your rights, you have key responsibilities that help your dental team care for you effectively:

• Provide accurate health information, including updates to your medical history.

• Communicate expectations and needs, especially if something changes.

• Engage in your care, ask questions, and understand your treatment options.

• Acknowledge the risks of declining treatment or not following the plan.

• Keep scheduled appointments, and give notice if you must cancel.

• Follow at-home oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing.

• Meet your financial obligations for the care you receive.

When you uphold these responsibilities, your dental team can deliver safer, more personalized care.

The ADA’s Role in Protecting Patient Rights

The American Dental Association has long advocated for national legislation that strengthens patients' rights. The ADA supports policies that:

• Ensure dental patients can choose their own providers, even under managed care plans.

• Include freestanding dental plans, which cover over 120 million Americans.

• Establish accountability, so insurers can’t delay or deny care without consequences.

• Provide independent reviews of disputes, ensuring patients have fair recourse.

These initiatives promote transparency, fairness, and access to care for all dental patients.

Understanding your rights and fulfilling your responsibilities ensures a healthier mouth—and a more empowered experience at the dentist. To learn more or to partner with a dental team that respects and supports your role in your care, schedule your next appointment at Redlands Town Dental.