The American Dental Association's Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct is considered the Gold Standard for the entire dental profession. The contents are utillzed entirely or in part by most, if not all, dental teaching institutions and dental professional organizations in the United States, if not the world.  Adoption by the Virginia Board of Dentistry to utilze the ADA Code would have numerous benefits. Dental professionals are schooled on the ADA's  Principles and Code. It is widely regarded and easily accessible. The ADA and other groups promote and uphold it. Education on the Code is ongoing. Over 60% of dentists here in Virginia as Virginia Dental Associaton members pledge each year to uphold this professional standard. Utiilizing the Code as a guide or entirely would reduce Board workload and licencee confusion regarding what is the position of the VA Dental Board. The Board needs to provide regulations and guidelines that are clear and easily understood by all concerned. At present, licensees as well as Board members and staff do not have that available. The ADA standard is well known to all persons that have recieved any formal dental education or certificate to practice in dentistry. Utililzing the ADA's professional standards material, which is done elsewhere and widely accepted,, is urged for serious consideration and adoption.

Respectfully,   William J. Bennett, D.D.S.