Bioethics and Dentistry

Abstract

SUMMARY Bioethics deals with issues concerning morality and rationality of human conduct in the biological and health sciences. As its main core, ethical aspects of controversial themes are discussed, such as, abortion, euthanasia, besides research involving human beings, among others. The professional/patient relationship is also discussed in this new field of knowledge. Through autonomy, the patient starts to share decisions, based on values and personal beliefs, so that a conscientious choice can be made; a choice involving therapeutic proposals, accepting or denying them, and consenting after complete understanding. Ultimately, beneficence is related to the role of the professional in assuring the benefits for the patient’s health, through diagnosis, prevention and mouth disease treatments contributing to the patient’s quality of life. The theme proposed values both the role of the patient as an active collaborator in the treatment, as well as the surgeon-dentist, as a health promoter. This work has the objective to discuss the role of reflexive bioethics in Dentistry. From the references found, it can be affirmed that they are necessary and fundamental. DESCRIPTORS Bioethics. Relationship professional/patient. Autonomy. Odontology practices.