The intersection of dental ethics and law.

Dentists are regularly confronted with situations that involve interrelated ethical, risk management, and legal and regulatory compliance issues. This article discusses six of the most common such situations where dentists must sort out various ethical and legal issues. Sometimes taking steps to minimize exposure to liability or comply with legal and regulatory mandates is also consistent with applicable ethical standards. At other times, however, in order to meet the highest ethical standards, dentists must go beyond mere legal compliance and risk management. By acting in accordance with the highest ethical standards, dentists ensure they are protecting not just their own interests but their patients' interests as well.