Is it ethical to immobilize patient’s jaws for weight loss? A deontological perspective

Abstract

The demand for elective aesthetic treatment is increasing globally, in line with aggressive media portrayals of a certain standard of beauty and body image. This trend is also changing the landscape of modern dentistry and is blurring the role of dental professionals as healthcare providers versus aestheticians. This article explores the ethical dilemma that dental professionals are faced with when patients request a treatment modality such as intermaxillary fixation, to treat a medical condition or enhance aesthetics through weight loss. We evaluate whether intermaxillary fixation for weight loss falls within the dentist’s scope of practice from a deontological perspective.