American Association of Endodontists Alarmed by Reports of Healthy Teeth Removal

The American Association of Endodontists (AAE) has recently expressed deep concern over reports that some dental practitioners in the United States are opting to remove healthy, treatable teeth in favor of dental implants. The reports, highlighted in a recent article by Emma Karnes on Local3News (November 2, 2024), have raised ethical and health-related alarms within the dental community. The AAE, whose core mission is to preserve natural teeth whenever possible, stated it is “highly alarmed” by this emerging practice, describing it as a deviation from the standards of patient-centered care.

In response to these findings, the AAE has called for increased awareness and caution among patients, stressing the importance of fully understanding treatment options before making irreversible decisions. The association stated, “This practice is a serious violation of ethical standards and a betrayal of patient trust,” condemning any approach that places profit motives above the health and well-being of patients.

Ethical Standards and the Importance of Patient Trust

The AAE’s concerns are rooted in the ethical principles that guide dental practitioners, emphasizing that patient autonomy and informed consent are essential in every dental procedure. The association’s strong stance reflects its dedication to these principles, which include the responsibility of practitioners to act in the best interest of patients and avoid unnecessary or harmful treatments.

“[W]e strongly condemn any approach that prioritizes profit over the long-term health and well-being of patients,” the AAE stated in the Local3News article. The organization’s stance highlights a fundamental ethical commitment to patient care that discourages profit-driven decisions, especially when they may compromise a patient’s future health.

The AAE’s message is clear: dental practitioners must act as advocates for their patients, prioritizing care that is medically necessary rather than financially advantageous. The removal of healthy teeth for the sole purpose of installing dental implants, they argue, could lead to long-term consequences that outweigh any perceived immediate benefit.

Urging Patients to Seek Second Opinions

Given the irreversible nature of tooth removal, the AAE is advising patients to seek second opinions before proceeding with any treatment involving the extraction of healthy teeth. According to the association, this additional step can help patients make better-informed decisions about their oral health and avoid potential pitfalls.

The AAE emphasized the need for patients to be proactive in asking questions and understanding the full range of available treatment options. As detailed in the article, the association suggests that patients “deserve comprehensive information about treatment options” and should not feel pressured to rush into a choice they may later regret.

Upholding Ethical Principles in Dentistry

At the heart of the AAE’s message is a call to uphold the highest ethical standards in dentistry. The association underscored that “patient autonomy, nonmaleficence, beneficence, justice, and veracity” are foundational principles that must guide every practitioner’s actions. By adhering to these principles, the AAE believes that dental professionals can ensure their practice remains focused on patient well-being and safety.

In the Local3News article, the AAE stated, “At the AAE, we stand firm in our commitment to patient-centered care, ethical practice, and the preservation of natural teeth.” This statement reinforces the association’s commitment to safeguarding the health and trust of patients, as well as its dedication to the responsible and ethical practice of dentistry.

A Call to Action for Practitioners and Patients

The AAE’s response to these reports serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical standards in dentistry. The association urges practitioners to uphold their commitment to patients’ long-term health and advocates for patient education to prevent potentially harmful choices. For patients, the message is clear: gather all necessary information, seek multiple perspectives, and prioritize health over cosmetic or convenience-driven solutions.

As the AAE continues its advocacy, the organization is hopeful that both patients and practitioners will heed its call to prioritize the preservation of natural teeth, whenever possible, in line with the principles of responsible, patient-centered care.