Dental ethics proceedings in the state of Paraíba – 2012 to 2023

Abstract

Dentistry practice which violates the principles of the Dental Code of Ethics can result in ethical
proceedings against dentists. This study verified the number of complaints received and ethical
proceedings instituted by the Regional Dental Council of Paraíba. A retrospective, cross-sectional study
was conducted using secondary data regarding ethical proceedings instituted between 2012 and 2023.
Among the 267 complaints received, most reported were dentists (94.5%), men (57.3%), and aged 30
to 39 (38.5%). The most common reasons for violation were unsuccessful dental treatment (46.4%) and
improper advertising (27.6%). Of the total cases, 78.9% were solved whereas 21.1% are ongoing. Most of
the solved cases were settled (38.5%), and those in progress are awaiting a final opinion (48.3%). Of the
cases tried, 71.6% resulted in convictions, and public censure was the most common penalty (39.6%).
Ethics should be established during undergraduate studies and respected throughout professional life.