Who is considered a patient in a dental context?

In a dental context, a patient is defined as an individual who seeks consultation or treatment from a dentist. This includes anyone who approaches the dentist for professional dental care, which may involve diagnosis, treatment plans, or advice regarding oral health. The relationship established at that moment is what fundamentally categorizes the person as a patient, regardless of subsequent financial transactions or the nature of the treatment.

The reason other options do not apply in the same way is that simply paying for services does not define a patient's status; there are numerous entities that may facilitate payments that are not directly involved in treatment or consultation, such as third-party payers. Additionally, a dental assistant, while instrumental in the treatment process, is employed within the dental office and does not seek care from the dentist themselves, thus they are not considered a patient. Lastly, a relative of someone receiving treatment does not fall under the definition of a patient either, as their relationship to the treatment recipient does not inherently involve them in a dental consultation or care process; they remain an external observer or supporter rather than a participant in the care.