Ethical Dilemma In Dentistry That You Have Personally Experienced (Coursework Sample)

Dentistry Dilemma
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Ethical Dilemma in Dentistry
The ethical principles of beneficence and autonomy raise a lot of tension in dentistry. I experienced this type of dilemma while I was volunteering in my uncle’s dental clinic. Ethical dilemma is a situation that arises when principles are in conflict (Misch, 2012).
An elderly patient with numerous chronic conditions visited the clinic and requested cosmetic procedures that included cosmetic enhancement and implants for her existing teeth. The woman was suffering from arthritis and heart disease. However, as the receptionist had scheduled an appointment, the dentist received the patient but went through series of questions to understand the historical implication of dental problems experienced by the patient. Unfortunately, the elderly woman did not understand the risks involved in the procedures she wanted to undertake. Firstly, the procedures were very expensive and the patient did not have adequate money to cater for the treatment. The only option that was on the table was only to involve implants as they were more affordable as compared to cosmetic enhancement. Nevertheless, the patient could not clearly understand why she could not undergo both procedures despite the doctor’s effort to explain and teach her about it.
After the patient understood the procedures and the option on the table, it is crucial to explore the principle involved. The principle of autonomy does not supersede the principle of beneficence where the doctor should do no harm to a patient even when the health profile of a patient may be a risk of increasing complications (Misch, 2012). Cosmetic enhancements as well as other dental procedures are associated with high risks. Therefore, to preserve autonomy, the consent of the patient should be voluntary and informed. Informed decisions that relate cosmetic enhancement and implants should include both the benefits and risks that the patient could encounter in the short and long term basis.
The patient was able to consent the procedures and she...