Which is the ninth principle of the GDC?

• A. Communicate effectively
• B. Obtain valid consent
• C. Make sure your personal behaviour maintains confidence in you and the profession
• D. Raise concerns if patients are at risk

Answer: (C)

The important idea here is that professional integrity hinges on how you behave every day, not just what you say or do in a single appointment. The ninth principle asks you to conduct yourself in a way that maintains confidence in you and in the dental profession as a whole. This means showing honesty and integrity, treating patients with respect, safeguarding their confidentiality, keeping appropriate boundaries, and presenting yourself in a way that reflects positively on the profession. When your personal conduct is consistently professional, patients trust you, the team, and the care they receive.

While clear communication, obtaining valid consent, and raising concerns when patient safety is at risk are all essential duties, they sit within the broader expectation of professional behaviour that sustains public trust.