If the dental treatment is unrelated to past smoking history, then there should be no reason for the dentist to disclose this information to parents. However, if the patient is under 18, the dentist may require parental consent to treat a particular condition. Gum disease or oral cancer are examples where consent may be required for treatment. If consent is required, it would be best to have the patient tell their parents about their smoking habit. This will require courage, but it is better than putting off necessary dental care or having the parents find out from the dentist.
Parents appreciate honesty and maturity.
Of course, the most important advice is to quit using harmful tobacco products. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical attention, diagnosis or hands-on treatment. If you are concerned about your health or that of a child's, please consult your family's health care provider immediately and do not wait for a response from our professionals. Inc. Legal Disclaimer. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical attention, diagnosis or hands-on treatment.