The way in which a dentist relates to patients to obtain and sustain health has been regarded as both a matter of common sense and an ethical mandate. The proper way to relate to a patient can indeed be understood in terms of courtesy and sensitivity to the patient's wants, needs and expectations. The law has something to add to the common sense and ethical mandate of relationships between patients and providers. There is need to consider the patient's perspective - trust, attention, compassion and careful treatment. Basic principles of communication are important adjunctive skills which help to prevent legal action. However, a dentist has obligations that extend beyond what the law requires. There are specific situations where the professionals are left to decide for themselves what is the "right" thing to do. Are we ethical? Is it possible in the present day situation continues to be the primary challenge. Schlagwörter: dentist-patient relationship, communication, ethics in dentistry, patient satisfaction, partnership, social skills