What is the primary focus of Principle 1 of the GDC?

The primary focus of Principle 1 of the General Dental Council (GDC) is indeed to put patients' interests first. This principle emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the well-being and needs of patients in all interactions and treatments. It underscores the ethical obligation dental professionals have to ensure that patient care is at the center of their practice. By prioritizing patients' interests, practitioners demonstrate their commitment to ethical standards, fostering trust and safety in the dentist-patient relationship.

While maintaining confidentiality, communicating effectively, and collaborating with colleagues are all vital aspects of dental practice, they fall under broader responsibilities that support the primary objective of placing patients first. Each of these elements contributes to fulfilling the overarching goal of patient-centered care, but the essence of Principle 1 is distinctly about the primacy of patient interest as the guiding principle in dental care.