Ethical reporting of consent and assent in paediatric oral health research in Malaysia: a scoping review

Ethics approval and parental consent are now routinely reported in Malaysian paediatric oral health research. However, documentation of child assent remains limited and often lacks procedural detail. Strengthening ethical transparency will require standardised, age-appropriate assent procedures and clearer editorial expectations. Improving reporting practices will better support children's developing autonomy, reinforce responsible research conduct, and promote greater trust in paediatric oral health research.