What considerations govern patient consent for minors?

• A. Parental or guardian consent is required for treatment of minors, with additional considerations per age and legal status.
• B. Minors may consent on their own in all cases.
• C. Consent is not required for minors.
• D. Only if minor is over 16.

Answer: (A)

Parental or guardian consent is the baseline for treating a minor. The default rule is that a parent or legal guardian authorizes dental care for someone under 18. Whether a minor can consent on their own depends on their age and legal status: some minors who are emancipated or otherwise legally recognized to make medical decisions may provide their own consent. In emergencies, care may proceed to prevent serious harm, sometimes without prior consent, and state law or court orders can also affect authority in other situations. Because specifics vary by state, a clinician should know the applicable Florida statutes and board guidance, but the general idea remains that the adult with legal responsibility provides consent, with limited exceptions where the minor’s own status or emergency needs allow otherwise.