Duties of a Dentist to their Patients in Australia
As a registered dentist in Australia, you have a professional, ethical, and legal duty to provide high-quality care to your patients. These duties are outlined by the Dental Board of Australia (DBA), the Australian Dental Association (ADA), and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
1. Duty of Care
Dentists have a legal and ethical obligation to provide safe, competent, and appropriate treatment to their patients. This includes:
- Accurate Diagnosis – Conducting thorough assessments, including X-rays, to properly diagnose dental conditions.
- Providing Evidence-Based Treatment – Following current dental best practices and guidelines.
- Avoiding Harm (Non-Maleficence) – Ensuring no unnecessary procedures or treatments that may cause harm.
- Emergency Care – Providing pain relief and treatment for dental emergencies when needed.
2. Obtaining Informed Consent
Before any treatment, dentists must:
- Explain the nature, benefits, risks, and alternatives of the procedure.
- Ensure the patient fully understands their options.
- Obtain written or verbal consent before proceeding with treatment.
- Respect a patient’s right to refuse treatment, even if it is recommended.
3. Maintaining Patient Confidentiality
Under the Privacy Act 1988 and Health Records Act, dentists must:
- Keep patient records confidential.
- Share information only with patient consent or if legally required.
- Ensure secure storage of patient records to prevent data breaches.
4. Professionalism and Ethical Conduct
Dentists must always act with honesty, integrity, and respect towards patients. This includes:
- Treating all patients fairly and without discrimination.
- Providing clear and honest communication about treatment and costs.
- Avoiding unethical practices, such as recommending unnecessary treatments for financial gain.
5. Providing a Safe and Hygienic Environment
Under ADA and NHMRC infection control guidelines, dentists must:
- Ensure proper sterilisation of instruments.
- Follow infection control protocols (e.g., PPE, hand hygiene).
- Properly dispose of clinical waste (e.g., sharps, amalgam, biohazard materials).
Failure to maintain infection control can result in legal consequences and disciplinary action from the Dental Board.
6. Continuity of Care and Follow-Ups
Dentists must:
- Provide ongoing care and follow-ups after treatment.
- Refer patients to specialists when necessary.
- Not abandon a patient during treatment unless a proper referral is made.
7. Respecting Patient Autonomy
Patients have the right to make their own healthcare decisions. Dentists must:
- Respect a patient’s choice to accept or decline treatment.
- Provide all relevant information without pressure or coercion.
- Support patients in making informed decisions about their oral health.
8. Handling Complaints and Patient Concerns
If a patient is dissatisfied with their care, a dentist must:
- Listen to the patient’s concerns respectfully.
- Attempt to resolve the issue professionally.
- Provide information on formal complaint processes, such as the Dental Board of Australia (DBA) or Health Complaints Commissioner.
Legal and Ethical Consequences of Failing These Duties
If a dentist fails to meet their responsibilities, they may face:
- Complaints or investigations by AHPRA or the DBA.
- Professional misconduct charges, leading to suspension or deregistration.
- Legal liability for negligence, resulting in fines or compensation claims.