Ethics in Dentistry: Part II - Codes of Ethics
COURSE NUMBER: 528
Phyllis Beemsterboer, RDH, MS, EdD, FACD; Dawne Stefanik, DDS, MA, FACD
Credit Hours:
2 Hour(s)
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This continuing education course examines the critical role of adhering to a code of ethics as a foundational element of maintaining public trust in the dental profession. As a profession granted significant privileges in serving the public...
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Overview
This continuing education course examines the critical role of adhering to a code of ethics as a foundational element of maintaining public trust in the dental profession. As a profession granted significant privileges in serving the public, dentistry carries a corresponding responsibility to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct.
In Part I, ethical principles and values were introduced as the foundation of ethical practice. In this course, participants will examine how those principles are operationalized through professional codes of ethics that guide conduct and define professional responsibilities.
This course invites participants to critically examine the relevance of these standards in contemporary practice and to understand their role in protecting patients, fostering trust, and sustaining the integrity of the profession.
Participants will strengthen their ethical awareness and understanding of professional responsibilities that support self-regulation in clinical practice. By emphasizing the meaning and application of professional codes to ethical practice, this course provides a framework for aligning daily practice with the values of the dental profession.
Please note that this course is Part II of a three-part series. To gain the full benefit of the concepts covered in this course, be sure to read Ethics in Dentistry: Part I - Principles and Values and Part III - Ethical Decision-making.
Intended Audience:
Dentists, Dental Hygienists, Dental Students, Dental Hygiene Students
Date Course Online:
May 1, 2017
Last Revision Date:
Sep 4, 2026
Course Expiration Date:
Sep 3, 2029
Cost:
Free
Method:
Self-instructional
AGD Subject Code(s):
555
Technical Requirements:
Stable internet connection and the latest version of browser and device software are recommended.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this course, the dental professional should be able to:
- Describe the purpose and role of professional codes of ethics in dentistry.
- Describe the development of codes of ethics in health care.
- Compare key components of the codes of ethics for dentistry and dental hygiene.
- Apply professional codes to common clinical and ethics scenarios.
- Recognize the role of professional codes in establishing obligations to society.
Disclaimers
- P&G is providing these resource materials to dental professionals. We do not own this content nor are we responsible for any material herein.
- Participants must always be aware of the hazards of using limited knowledge in integrating new techniques or procedures into their practice. Only sound evidence-based dentistry should be used in patient therapy.
Please Note:
- Iowa Dental Professionals: This course does not comply with the Iowa Dental Board for recertification in the area of Iowa jurisprudence, as established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Note: Registration is required to take test.
Submission Information
Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) Submission For credit transfers to appear in your AGD account in real time, make sure to add your AGD membership number in the field provided on the “Share Your Test Score” page.
CE Broker For all states that use CE Broker for licensure, “proof of completions” are electronically reported the first of every month. If a course was taken in November, the “proof of completion” will be submitted the beginning of December.
Recognition
Approved PACE Program Provider
THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY
Nationally Approved PACE Program Provider for FAGD/MAGD credit.
Approval does not imply acceptance by any regulatory authority or AGD endorsement.
8/1/2021 to 7/31/2027
Provider ID# 211886
AADH Approved Program Provider
Procter and Gamble is designated as an approved provider by the American Academy of Dental Hygiene, Inc. #AADHPGC (January 1, 2026 - December 31, 2027). Approval does not imply acceptance by a state or provincial Board of Dentistry. Licensee should maintain this document in the event of an audit.
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