Final answer:
The principle associated with a competent dentist diagnosing, treating, and appropriately referring a patient is the principle of beneficence, which involves acting in the patient's best interest to benefit their oral health.
Step-by-step explanation:
The principle most closely associated with a competent dentist who diagnoses and treats the patient's oral health needs, and refers when it is in the patient's best interest, is the principle of beneficence. The principle of beneficence suggests that healthcare professionals should act in ways that benefit patients or are for the good of the patients. In this context, the dentist is ensuring that the patient receives the necessary treatment to improve their oral health and is referred to a specialist when the treatment required is beyond the dentist's expertise, thus ensuring the best possible outcome for the patient.
The principle of nonmaleficence, while also essential in healthcare, primarily focuses on avoiding harm to patients. For instance, a treatment that can potentially harm the patient should only be administered if it is necessary for effective treatment. The principle of justice implies fair and equitable treatment of patients, ensuring similar cases are handled in similar ways. Lastly, autonomy upholds a patient's right to make informed decisions about their care.