Most toothaches are the result of inflammation, not infection. Despite this, antibiotics are still commonly prescribed, contributing to the growing rise of antimicrobial resistance—one of the top ten global public health threats.

What happens when dentists focus on their patients’ oral healthcare at the expense of their own health? When dentists experience their own physical or mental health issues, they need to consider whether their ability to practise safely and ethically is impacted.

This case illustrates how dental recordkeeping practices could either support or hinder a dentist’s defence during the complaint process.

The 447^th meeting of the RCDSO Council was held in person and livestreamed on Thursday, January 23^rd, 2025. A recording of the session is available on the College’s You Tube channel. Highlights from the meeting follow.