well, obviously i don't know what i'm talking about, but i never let that stop me!
i don't know if you can extrapolate from this, but someone asked about music in a video game and was told that there is a difference between hearing and listening - the key was "intent". (which was to play the game, not listen to music).
so, in treating your patients, your intent is merely to help them - in a way, they are just so many mouths, cavities, teeth, smelly breath, etc etc. and their gender is really irrelevant.
in case of an emergency, i'm sure it would be fine if there is no woman dentist around, because saving a life is so important.
hmmmm.... i think i'll start a thread on "intent" in the basics of islam section, then we can all learn.
maybe somebody will correct what i've said here too.