Which type of consent is given orally or in writing?

• A. Implied consent
• B. Expressed consent
• C. Informed consent
• D. Personal consent

Answer: (B)

Expressed consent means the patient explicitly agrees to treatment, either verbally or in writing. This is the clear, stated agreement you obtain before proceeding. Implied consent, by contrast, is inferred from the patient’s actions or circumstances (for example, presenting for care and not objecting). Informed consent refers to the process of providing information about risks, benefits, and alternatives so the patient can decide, and while it often accompanies expressed consent, it’s defined by understanding rather than the mere act of saying yes. Personal consent isn’t a standard term in dental practice.