Ethical integrity is the cornerstone of health care, yet dental professionals today face a rapidly evolving landscape of ethical dilemmas that challenge traditional frameworks. From pain management and relying on artificial intelligence (AI) in clinical diagnosis to the increasing influence of insurance-driven treatment decisions, these obstacles demand a nuanced and proactive approach. Navigating these challenges requires a commitment to professional codes of conduct, patient-centered care, and ongoing ethical education.

The integration of ethical reasoning into dental education is critical in shaping the next generation of practitioners, equipping them with the skills to uphold ethical standards in an increasingly complex health care system. Dental professionals must not only recognize ethical challenges but also lead the charge in redefining ethical priorities to maintain the credibility and trustworthiness of the profession. By fostering awareness, critical thinking, and institutional commitment, we can ensure that ethics remains at the forefront of clinical practice and public health discourse.

This presentation will empower attendees with practical insights and forward-thinking solutions to uphold ethical integrity, enhance patient trust, and advocate for systemic reforms that prioritize ethical decision-making in dental and public health practice. This dynamic panel discussion will bring together three distinguished experts to critically examine the barriers to ethical practice in dentistry, evaluate their broader public health implications, and propose actionable strategies to elevate dental ethics as a national priority in the era of artificial intelligence (AI).