How many ADA principles of ethics are there?

The American Dental Association (ADA) has established five core principles of ethics that guide dental professionals in their practice. These principles include:

1. Autonomy: The right of patients to make informed choices about their dental care.

2. Non-maleficence: The obligation to not inflict harm on patients and to prevent potential harm.

3. Beneficence: The duty to promote the health and welfare of patients.

4. Justice: The principle that advocates for fairness in the distribution of dental care and resources.

5. Veracity: The commitment to truthfulness and honesty in all aspects of patient care.

Understanding these principles is crucial for dental professionals, as they provide a foundational ethical framework that supports clinical decision-making, fosters trust in the patient-provider relationship, and upholds the integrity of the dental profession. The acknowledgment of these principles ensures that practitioners are not only skilled in their technical abilities but also committed to the moral responsibilities that come with providing care.