Is dentistry a profession? Part 2. The hallmarks of professionalism.

In this second in a series of 3 articles, the author builds on the definition of professionalism developed in the first article, arguing that the social contract between the profession and the public entails a collective responsibility of the members of the profession to serve the public good. Several specific professional duties are deduced, such as the duties to attain and maintain competence, to review one's peers, and to serve all in need of expert care. The third and final article will examine whether and to what extent dentistry fulfills these responsibilities and outlines some future challenges.