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Commentary & Perspectives

Q&A: What are your ethical obligations if another dentist dies before completing treatment?

A recent news report described financial challenges faced by patients who had prepaid for treatment before their dentist unexpectedly died.

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Patients may face financial hardships if their dentist unexpectedly dies before completing prepaid treatments. Dr. Jill Burns outlines the ethical obligations other dentists might have to assist these patients under the ADA's Principles of Ethics. She emphasizes the importance of providing necessary finished prosthetics and establishes legal limitations on taking over other dentists' treatment plans. Burns suggests implementing succession plans or escrow accounts as measures to protect patients and ensure fair practices while addressing issues of truthfulness and fairness in prepaid services.

Original Source(s)

Q&A: What are your ethical obligations if another dentist dies before completing treatment?

  • by Mary Beth Versaci

  • March 26, 2026

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