A child watches as her teeth are cleaned. An updated code of conduct from the American Dental Association imposes new expectations on dentists for treating patients with developmental disabilities. (Eric Albrecht/The Columbus Dispatch/TNS)

The American Dental Association recently changed its ethics rules to prohibit refusing service to patients on the basis of physical, developmental or intellectual disability. The new rule requires dentists who lack the equipment or expertise to offer effective treatment to refer patients to practitioners who can provide treatment. These rules govern membership in the American Dental Association and can serve as the basis for state laws.