Final answer:
The concept described in the question is non-maleficence, which is an important ethical principle in medicine. Non-maleficence means that healthcare professionals should do no harm to their patients.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept described in the question is non-maleficence, which is an important ethical principle in medicine. Non-maleficence means that healthcare professionals should do no harm to their patients.
In the context of dentistry, if a dentist realizes that their skills are insufficient to properly treat a patient, it is their responsibility to refrain from harming the patient by referring them to a specialist or someone with the necessary expertise. This ensures that the patient receives appropriate and safe care.
By seeking specialized expertise and not risking harm to the patient, the dentist is practicing non-maleficence.