Originally published in 2019.
Republished in 2022 following global agreement validation.
The 2022 version reflects methodological standardisation within the IAPD Consensus & Foundational Articles framework and formal evaluation of international agreement. No substantive changes were made to the clinical recommendations.
Ethical practice is fundamental to the provision of paediatric dental care. Dentists must balance clinical decision-making with respect for the rights, dignity, and well-being of children, while also involving parents or caregivers appropriately in the decision-making process.
Ethical considerations are particularly important in paediatric dentistry because children may have limited capacity to make independent decisions regarding their health care.
Core principles include:
Ethical decision-making should guide all aspects of paediatric dental care, including treatment planning, behaviour guidance, and communication with families.
Dental professionals should prioritise the best interests and well-being of the child when making clinical decisions.
Informed consent must be obtained from parents or legal guardians prior to treatment, and children should be involved in decision-making to the extent appropriate for their age and level of understanding.
Clear communication between dental professionals, children, and caregivers is essential to support ethical clinical practice.
(Evidence-based recommendations are not subject to global agreement scoring.)
(Evaluated for Global Agreement in 2022)
Children should be treated with respect, dignity, and consideration for their emotional and developmental needs.
Parents or caregivers should be actively involved in discussions regarding treatment options, risks, and benefits.
Dental professionals should strive to ensure equitable access to oral health care for all children, regardless of social, economic, or geographic circumstances.
Ethical principles should guide clinical decision-making, research involving children, and professional conduct within paediatric dentistry.
To support clinical implementation and knowledge translation, IAPD has developed complementary educational materials.
🎙 IAPD Podcast Series
Relevant episodes of the IAPD Podcast Series explore professional responsibility, communication with families, and ethical decision-making in paediatric dentistry.
▶ Listen to the Podcast
🎥 IAPD Webinar
Relevant webinars may address ethical considerations, patient communication, and decision-making in paediatric dental care.
▶ Watch the Webinar Recording
International Association of Paediatric Dentistry (IAPD).
IAPD Foundational Articles and Recommendations on Ethical Considerations in Paediatric Dentistry.
Originally published 2019. Global Agreement Validation 2022.
