Denture Repair Kit Dentures implant supported dentures occlusal splints Sports Mouthguard

Duties and Obligations of Dentists in Australia

Duties and Obligations of Dentists in Australia

As a dentist in Australia, you have professional, ethical, and legal responsibilities towards your patients, staff, and the community. These duties are governed by the Dental Board of Australia (DBA), the Australian Dental Association (ADA), the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law, and other relevant legislation.

1. Duty of Care to Patients

Dentists have a legal and ethical obligation to provide high-quality, evidence-based care. This includes:

  • Providing Competent and Safe Treatment
    • Diagnosing and treating dental conditions based on the latest clinical guidelines.
    • Referring patients to specialists when necessary.
  • Informed Consent
    • Explaining treatment options, risks, and costs in a way patients can understand.
    • Obtaining written consent before performing procedures.
  • Maintaining Patient Confidentiality (Privacy Act 1988 & Health Records Act)
    • Protecting personal and medical information under Australian privacy laws.
    • Sharing patient records only with consent or when legally required.
  • Emergency Care
    • Providing pain relief and urgent treatment to patients in emergencies, even if they are not regular patients.

2. Ethical and Professional Conduct

Dentists must adhere to the Australian Dental Association (ADA) Code of Ethics, which includes:

  • Acting with integrity, honesty, and professionalism.
  • Avoiding conflicts of interest (e.g., recommending unnecessary treatments for financial gain).
  • Respecting patient autonomy and rights.

3. Infection Control & Workplace Safety

Dentists must comply with Australian infection control standards, including:

  • Following NHMRC & ADA Infection Control Guidelines.
  • Using sterile instruments and proper disinfection.
  • Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Managing clinical waste properly (e.g., sharps, amalgam, biohazard waste).

Failure to follow these protocols can result in disciplinary action from regulatory bodies.

4. Compliance with National and State Regulations

Dentists must be registered and follow laws set by:

  • Dental Board of Australia (DBA) – Oversees professional registration, complaints, and disciplinary actions.
  • Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) – Regulates healthcare practitioners and protects public safety.
  • Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) – Ensures safe use of dental materials and equipment.
  • Fair Work Act 2009 – Governs employee rights and workplace conditions in dental practices.

5. Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

To maintain registration, dentists must:

  • Complete 60 hours of CPD activities every three years.
  • Stay updated with advancements in dentistry, technology, and regulations.

Failure to meet CPD requirements can result in loss of registration.

6. Business and Employment Obligations (If Running a Dental Practice)

Dentists who own a clinic must:

  • Follow workplace health & safety (WHS) laws to protect staff.
  • Ensure compliance with fair employment practices (pay, contracts, entitlements).
  • Provide adequate insurance, including professional indemnity and public liability.

7. Legal Accountability & Complaints Handling

Dentists can face legal action if they:

  • Provide negligent or substandard care.
  • Violate privacy laws or commit ethical breaches.
  • Engage in false advertising (misleading claims about treatments).

Patients can file complaints through:

  • Dental Board of Australia (DBA).
  • Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
  • Health Complaints Commissioner (state-based authorities).

Solverwp- WordPress Theme and Plugin