Hippocratic oath in dentistry: An insight

Abstract

The hippocratic values on health profession target holistic patient care model and lay down the foundation of standards and ethical rules that are still convincing today. Despite various agreements or disagreements regarding its relevance in modern era, it reflects the soul of health profession. Various versions of the oath are available and followed by medical and dental students as they begin their professional journey. The vows are commitments made to the society, colleagues, and disciples to develop mutual trust and avoid the exploitation. The principles of oath may guide us when we are at the dead end of dark tunnel in our professional careers. In dentistry, the code of ethics is outlined by the hippocratic oath which inspires the dental professional to carry out their duties justly and ethically. This review attempts to discuss the relevance of hippocratic oath in dentistry and emphasizes on the need to have standardized oath for dental graduates.

Keywords

• dentistry
• doctor's dilemma
• ethics
• oath
• professionalism