Core Standards for Leadership in Oral Healthcare

Authors

• Sir Nairn H.F. Wilson CBE DSc(h.c.) DDent(h.c.) PhD MSc BDS FCGDent FDS RCS Edin, Eng(Hon) & RCPS Glasg(Hon) FFD RCSI(Hon) FCDSHK(Hon) FRACDS(Hon) DRD FHEA FACD FICD FADM FPFA FRSM FKC, King’s College London, College of General Dentistry, UKFollow

Abstract

This article introduces the American College of Dentists’ core standards for leadership in oral healthcare, grounded in well-established ethical principles and in response to ever-increasing expectations for patient-first care. It is suggested that the new standards must be consistently upheld to maintain patient trust and professional credibility. Effective leadership, in contrast to management, improves patient engagement and outcomes, team performance, and resilience. The article calls for more leadership training in dentistry, beginning in dental schools, and highlights the need for effective leadership in oral healthcare to strengthen the profession’s standing and status.

Recommended Citation

Wilson, Sir Nairn H.F. CBE DSc(h.c.) DDent(h.c.) PhD MSc BDS FCGDent FDS RCS Edin, Eng(Hon) & RCPS Glasg(Hon) FFD RCSI(Hon) FCDSHK(Hon) FRACDS(Hon) DRD FHEA FACD FICD FADM FPFA FRSM FKC (2026) "Core Standards for Leadership in Oral Healthcare," Journal of the American College of Dentists: Vol. 92: No. 4, Article 5.
Available at: https://commons.ada.org/jacd/vol92/iss4/5