[Factors affecting the therapeutic decision].

Introduction: Like the majority of medical professions, odontology is a regulated profession whose exercise is subject to legal provisions.

Material And Method: The bases of these regulatory obligations are detailed and analysed, in particular the obligations concerning the relationship with patients, their information and obtaining their consent prior to any treatment. The obligations of the practitioner himself are then specified.

Conclusion: Compliance with regulatory provisions is intended to provide a secure framework for practice and to promote a good patient-practitioner relationship.