Standards and Ethics
The Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics set the foundation for dental assisting practice in Alberta. Together, they guide how you practise, make decisions, and interact with patients, colleagues, and the public. They support safe, ethical, and person-centred care and help ensure public trust in the profession.
Standards of Practice
The Standards of Practice describe what is expected of you as a dental assistant. They outline the minimum requirements for safe, competent, and professional practice and apply to all practice settings and roles.
The Standards help guide your day-to-day decision-making and clarify your responsibilities, including:
- patient safety and quality of care
- professional accountability and competence
- communication and collaboration
- infection prevention and control
- documentation and professional conduct
You are responsible for knowing, understanding, and practising in accordance with the Standards of Practice at all times.
Review the Standards of Practice (PDF)
Code of Ethics
The Code of Ethics sets out the ethical principles and values that guide your professional behaviour. It helps you make decisions when situations are complex or unclear and supports respectful, honest, and patient-centred interactions.
The Code of Ethics guides how you:
- Treat patients with dignity, respect, and fairness
- Maintain professional boundaries and trust
- Act with integrity and accountability
The Code applies to all dental assistants and is central to maintaining public confidence in dental assisting practice.
Review the Code of Ethics (PDF)
Understanding the Standards and Code
You will find modules in the Professional Practice Learning Centre (PPLC) to support your understanding of the Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics, and what’s expected of you.
Frequently asked questions
Start by reviewing the relevant sections of the Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. If you are still unsure, you can contact the College for practice advice to help you understand your professional responsibilities.
Yes. They’re enforceable regulatory documents. Failure to follow them may result in follow-up by the College and could be considered in professional conduct matters.
They may be updated to reflect changes in practice, legislation, or professional expectations. It is your responsibility to stay informed and review updates when they occur.
They place patient safety, respect, dignity, and ethical decision-making at the centre of practice. Following them helps ensure care is delivered in a professional, consistent, and trustworthy manner.
