Content Dam Diq Online Articles 2017 11 Xrayrefusal13thumb

Social media reaction among hygienists notes differing reactions when dental patients refuse x-rays

Nov. 7, 2017
Facebook survey of dental hygienists about patient refusal for x-rays results in differing opinions.

The Facebook page for RDH magazine and RDH eVillage recently asked readers about their responses when patients refuse x-rays during dental hygiene treatment. The Sept. 22 post generated 778 reactions, comments, and shares.

Many hygienists commenting on the post simply said they refuse to treat patients who decline x-rays.

Refuse? Be gone!

Some said they wish they could refuse treatment to patients. But they feel lonely. The place of employment seems lackadaisical about requiring X-rays.

I kinda agree

One hygienist even said she agrees with the patients who refuse x-rays, and even uses a modified schedule for x-rays herself. Someone pointed out the law afterwards.

Document, document, document

The Facebook thread included a long discussion about documenting informed consent and patient noncompliance, including these comments.

It’s like, It’s like, it’s like

However, much of the focus was just making sure the patient understands what happens when x-rays are refused. Everyone has a favorite analogy.

On a good note

One reader offered an example of how good things do happen when x-rays are used in oral health diagnosis.

About the Author

Mark Hartley

Mark Hartley is the editor of RDH magazine and collaborates with Kristine Hodsdon on many of the articles for RDH eVillage, which also appear on DentistryIQ.com.