Abstract
This article examines how members of the dental profession can sustain their longstanding reputation as trusted advisors amid declining public confidence in major institutions. Grounded in ethical principles, informed consent, and professional self-regulation, dentistry has historically ranked among the most trusted professions. The discussion explores challenges to credibility, including media scrutiny, concerns about anesthesia safety, controversial treatment hesitancy, and debates over community water fluoridation. Emphasizing the concept of the “advisor of merit,” the author argues that continued trust depends on truthful communication, transparency about risks, respect for patient autonomy, and freedom from conflicts of interest in clinical and public health advocacy.
Recommended Citation
Orr, Daniel L. II, DDS, MS (anesth), PhD, JD, MD, FACD (Nevada Section Chair)
(2026)
"How Dentists Can Remain Advisors of Merit to Their Patients,"
Journal of the American College of Dentists: Vol. 92:
No.
3, Article 7.
Available at:
https://commons.ada.org/jacd/vol92/iss3/7
Included in
Applied Ethics Commons, Bioethics and Medical Ethics Commons, Community Health and Preventive Medicine Commons, Dental Public Health and Education Commons, Leadership Commons, Social Justice Commons