Ethics for orthodontists

When treating children, important ethical issues may arise relating to the best interests of the child and decision making for minors. The case of a child with a cleft lip and palate whose parents failed to bring her in for medically indicated orthodontic care is presented. Ethical features of the case are discussed, including the need to benefit the patient, avoid harm, and respect the preferences of the parents. Ethical codes of the American Dental Association and American Medical Association are referenced. Ethical dilemmas include the conflict between the orthodontist's obligation to the child and the need to respect parental autonomy. Parental autonomy is respected up until the point at which significant harm to a child may result. The orthodontist's primary ethical responsibility is to the child, not the parents. The orthodontist providing medically indicated care should involve the craniofacial team or hospital social worker when parental decision making is in question.