So what are seven ethical issues to consider in dental practice?
Over-diagnosis and over-treating patients for financial gain
A survey of US dentists and dental educators found over-diagnosis for financial gain to be the most common ethical issue. Examples of financial gain may be recommending the upper-left first molar needs a two-surface amalgam restoration, or suggesting a product or service that is aligned with a commercial interest.
Although some dentists may offer services based on what the patient is willing to pay, consider your patients' needs and well-being before offering dental treatments.
Professional competence from continued dental education
Effective dental care and professional competence relies on continued education throughout your career. You may need to keep up to date with scientific, clinical and technical developments.
Harmful or risky practices in dentistry are considered notifiable conduct. Mandatory reporting of unprofessional or incompetent colleagues is a requirement in the National Law.
Read more about the guidelines for mandatory notifications by the Dental Board of Australia
Appropriate delegation
Owners of dental practices may delegate tasks to employed allied dental personnel who are legally authorised, formally educated, trained and competent. A dental hygienist performing a routine clean can be considered an effective use of time.
Consider the biomedical ethical principle of non-maleficence when a treatment might knowingly harm your patients, or does not meet practice standards.
Confidentiality and privacy
The simple act of transferring patient records to another practitioner requires adhering to confidentiality and privacy laws. Even with widespread use of electronic patient records, your practice staff may need to undertake training for secure handling of patient information.
Access the health information and Privacy Act for more information
Misleading or false advertising
Advertising that is misleading or false may harm your reputation, perhaps even the dental profession. Maintain consistency with professional standards of advertising services by complying with legislation, regulations, codes and guidelines that govern dentistry.
Read the Dental Board of Australia's guidelines for advertising regulated health services
Patient consent for dental decisions
Patient autonomy allows patients to be equipped to make their own decisions. However a patient may not have capacity to give voluntary consent for procedures. Dentists may assist patients to make informed decisions while meeting legal and professional requirements.
Read the Australian Dental Association's consent for care in dentistry guidelines
Failure to refer patients when appropriate
Dentists have an obligation to perform treatment only within their area of competence. Dentists who are treating patients from another dentist may need to notify the referring dentist, while not questioning their integrity.
Inform patients that they may consult or change dentists at any time, even during a course of treatment.
