- The ethical principle of Autonomy requires that patients have the right to make informed decisions about their own healthcare.
- Securing informed consent respects this principle by ensuring the patient understands the nature, risks, and benefits of proposed treatments before agreeing.
- This empowers patients to exercise control over their bodies and healthcare choices, making it a fundamental duty for dentists.
- Without informed consent, the patient's autonomy is violated.

Reference: Dental Ethics at Chairside, 3rd Edition, Chapter 4, Pages 45-47