Professionalism in South African Dental Practice

Abstract

A thriving healthcare system is built on professionalism, which influences the standard of patient treatment and promotes confidence among healthcare professionals. It is based on a holistic approach and includes a dynamic set of values and characteristics that are focused on the patient and the pursuit of excellence. Professionalism, which extends to include the entire field of dentistry, is 
fundamentally still anchored on the ethical provision of healthcare services. In the field of dentistry, professionalism refers to a multidimensional strategy centred on patient care, evidence-based procedures and the never-ending pursuit of excellence. Integrity, honesty and transparency are the cornerstones of ethical dental care delivery. Dental practitioners must make judgments that are based on what is best for their patients while also respecting their autonomy and rights. This involves navigating difficult 
ethical conundrums.