AUTHOR(S): Hemanth Tumkur Lakshmikantha

ABSTRACT:Social media introduces ethical dilemmas for orthodontists sharing patient images online. This study investigates the implications of posting extraoral photographs on ethical grounds. We examine issues around consent, privacy, duties of care, and data vulnerability. Individuals use ethical frameworks to navigate this complex area. We weigh benefits against risks, considering public engagement versus confidentiality. We focus on orthodontists’ obligations to ensure patient autonomy and reassurance. Crucially, we examine social media’s influence and the vulnerability it creates. We investigate potential psychological harm and adverse outcomes when extraoral images of marginalized groups are shared without consent. We also examine platform protocols on user data, highlighting data breach hazards. Case studies underscore the need to protect confidentiality. By analyzing current guidelines, we evaluate their efficacy in addressing ethical considerations while identifying gaps. Essentially, this summonses practitioners, governing bodies, and platforms to uphold informed consent, confidentiality, and professionalism in the digital era. As social media confers benefits, it also enables ethical pitfalls. Precautions must be enacted to safeguard privacy and autonomy. Going forward, key stakeholders must implement policies and procedures to mitigate risks.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.22271/oral.2024.v10.i2a.1917

Pages: 07-17  |  192 Views  127 Downloads