9.1 Conduct yourself in a way that upholds trust
Your behaviour, both professionally and personally, must justify the confidence placed in you as a dental professional. Patients expect high standards of integrity, reliability and judgement. Your actions should consistently reinforce that their trust is well placed.
9.2 Maintain professional boundaries at all times
Interactions with patients must remain respectful, appropriate, and focused on their care. Avoid behaviour that could compromise your professional role or create the impression of favouritism, personal involvement, or blurred boundaries. The same expectations apply when communicating electronically or online.
9.3 Ensure your health, behaviour and performance do not put others at risk
You are responsible for recognising issues that could affect your ability to practise safely — including health, conduct, or performance concerns. You must take appropriate action to protect patients and colleagues, including seeking help, limiting your practice if necessary, or informing relevant individuals.
9.4 Be open and cooperative with investigations and regulatory processes
If concerns arise about your conduct or practice, you must engage honestly and transparently with any formal or informal inquiry. Providing complete, truthful information is essential in maintaining confidence in you and the wider profession.
9.5 Inform the GDC of relevant findings or criminal proceedings
You must promptly notify the GDC if you are subject to criminal charges, cautions, convictions or regulatory findings anywhere in the world. This ensures the public can have confidence that concerns involving dental professionals are handled appropriately.
9.6 Use digital platforms and social media responsibly
Online behaviour must mirror the standards expected in clinical practice. Ensure your posts, comments and online interactions are professional, respectful and do not compromise confidentiality or damage public trust in dentistry.
9.7 Act as a positive representative of the profession
You are part of a profession that relies on public confidence. Demonstrating consistent professionalism, treating others with courtesy, and showing good judgement at all times helps strengthen respect for dentistry and reassures patients that their care is in safe hands.