Ethics revisited; British Dental Journal, December 20, 2024

Shaun Sellars  , British Dental Journal ; Ethics revisited

volume;

"But what about the future? Tomorrow's ethical dilemmas will likely centre around technology. Artificial intelligence is already reshaping diagnostics, and its influence will only grow. With this comes the responsibility to ensure that innovation enhances, rather than replaces, the human element of care.

The ethical landscape of dentistry will continue evolving, shaped by societal shifts, technological advances, and our commitment to doing better. If there's one lesson I've learned, it's that ethics isn't static - it's a living, breathing part of what we do. It challenges us to reflect, adapt, and, above all, remain human in our approach.

I leave you with this: Keep asking questions. Keep challenging norms. And never lose sight of why we chose this profession in the first place. Because at the heart of ethical dentistry lies something beautifully simple: a desire to do right by our patients, our colleagues, and ourselves. It's been an honour to be able to write for you all. Thank you for being part of the conversation."

ADA council affirms importance of code of ethics during COVID-19 pandemic; American Dental Association, ADA News, April 9, 2020

David Burger, American Dental Association, ADA News; 

ADA council affirms importance of code of ethics during COVID-19 pandemic

The Journal of the American Dental Association publishes essay that emphasizes unity of member dentists

"The ADA Council on Ethics, Bylaws and Judicial Affairs’ ethics subcommittee authored an online essay as part of its Ethical Moment series in the May issue of The Journal of the American Dental Association, affirming that the ADA Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct is just as important as ever when making the difficult decisions they encounter on a daily basis. 

“During this crisis, when everything seems in flux, it is comforting to remember that the values we pledged to uphold remain unchanged,” said Dr. Mike Kurkowski, council chair. “This article attempts to clarify the application of our Code to some of the emerging issues our member dentists must address. With the overwhelming volume of information practitioners are currently trying to digest, it's important to stay grounded. Placing our community and patients before our needs, and communicating honestly about the evolving science regarding this virus, will help guide dentists to the best decisions.”

The nearly 800-word essay, “Ethical Practice During the COVID-19 Pandemic,” addresses some of the ethical issues that have arisen in concert with the rise of transmissions...

Dr. Guenter Jonke, subcommittee member, said that it was vitally important to reiterate in a clear and concise manner member dentists’ obligations during this pandemic — not in a didactic or moralizing way, but as a way to express a shared commitment.

“Ethics is the cornerstone our profession,” Dr. Jonke said. “During this crisis, not all of us may be level-headed. This article is very timely and an important message to all dentists. Inspiring others is another skill of excellent leadership. Remaining unified allows us to achieve greatness during these uncertain times.”"