Which core value of dental hygiene emphasizes fairness in treatment?

The core value of dental hygiene that emphasizes fairness in treatment is justice, or fairness. This principle is central to ensuring that all patients receive equitable care, regardless of their background or circumstances. Justice in dental hygiene involves recognizing and respecting the rights of all individuals, ensuring that everyone has access to the same level of care and services. This contributes to the broader goal of promoting health equity within the community, making it vital for dental professionals to adhere to this principle in their practice.

Beneficence refers to the duty of healthcare providers to act in the best interest of the patient, which is important but does not specifically address the fairness aspect in treatment. Nonmaleficence focuses on the principle of "do no harm," highlighting the importance of ensuring that actions do not adversely affect the patient. Veracity relates to truthfulness and transparency in communication with patients, fostering trust but not directly linking to the fairness of treatment itself.