Dentists have broad responsibilities that are not restricted to their legal obligations but also include ethical obligations arising from their commitments to patients, to society and to professional ideals. This statement does not intend to cover the legal responsibilities of dentists but rather will focus on their ethical responsibilities. Interpretation of such responsibilities may vary from one country to another; however commonly shared moral values and ethical responsibilities include the duty to:
recognize, promote and uphold fundamental human rights and the rights of their patients;
represent, defend and advocate for both the oral health needs and best interests of patients and the public;
provide safe, quality, competent and fair oral healthcare to every patient;
improve the oral health, and contribute to the general health and well-being of individual patients and the public at large; and
maintain the role, good reputation and dignity of the profession.
