Which of the following is considered a legal obligation in dental practice?

Maintaining patient privacy and confidentiality is a fundamental legal obligation in dental practice rooted in various laws and ethical standards, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Dental professionals are required to protect sensitive patient information and ensure that it is not disclosed without the patient's consent. This obligation is essential not only for legal compliance but also for fostering trust between patients and dental practitioners. Upholding patient confidentiality is a cornerstone of ethical dental practice, highlighting the importance of respecting patient autonomy and privacy.

In contrast, the other options do not represent legal obligations. Providing discounts is a business decision and not mandated by law. Guaranteeing patient satisfaction is ideal but not legally required; patients must understand that treatment outcomes can depend on various factors outside the provider's control. Accepting only cash payments is a policy choice that does not necessarily reflect legal obligations but rather the business practices of the provider. Therefore, maintaining patient privacy and confidentiality stands out as the core legal requirement in dental practice.