Treatment Plan
A formal written document outlining the proposed sequence of dental procedures to be carried out for a patient, including associated costs and consent information.
Full Definition
A dental treatment plan is a structured clinical and administrative document that details all proposed treatments, the order in which they are to be performed, the fees associated with each item, and any relevant alternatives or risks. It forms the basis of informed consent and, in many jurisdictions, has medico-legal standing. Editors reviewing dental treatment plans must ensure procedure descriptions are specific (e.g., 'composite restoration upper-right 6, mesio-occlusal' rather than 'filling'), that cost schedules are accurate and internally consistent, and that the document is signed and dated by both the clinician and the patient. 'Treatment plan' is always two words and is generally not hyphenated, even when used attributively (e.g., 'treatment plan review').
Usage
Usage note: Two words, not hyphenated. Ensure all tooth references follow a consistent notation system (e.g., FDI or Universal) throughout the document. Must include patient signature and date to be medico-legally valid.
In Context
- "The treatment plan was presented to the patient at the consultation appointment, and written consent was obtained before any clinical work commenced." — Patient consent and administrative record
- "Editors reviewing the treatment plan should verify that the proposed procedures are listed in the clinically appropriate sequence." — Editorial quality assurance checklist