Ethics in Dentistry: Part II - Codes of Ethics

Course Number: 528

Dental Hygiene Code

The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) Code of Ethics for Dental Hygienists establishes ethical standards specific to dental hygiene practice. The Code emphasizes core values and fundamental principles, including responsibility, community, and the promotion of oral and overall health.

The ADHA Code is designed to guide decision-making, support ethical awareness, and define the standards of professional responsibility expected by both the profession and the public. It provides practical direction for dental hygienists working in a variety of clinical and community-based settings.

ADA Dental Code PrinciplesADA Dental Hygiene Values
Fundamental PrinciplesCore Values
AutonomyUniversalityIndividual autonomy and respect for human beings.
BeneficenceComplementarityConfidentiality
NonmaleficenceEthicsSocietal Trust
JusticeCommunityNon-maleficence
VeracityResponsibilityBeneficence
Justice and Fairness
Veracity