This presentation will provide common sense advice about steps that dentists can take to lessen the likelihood of a patient complaint to the RCDS. We will touch upon areas of practice that carry an increased risk of patient complaints, and provide specific advice to associate dentists concerning steps that can be taken to lessen the likelihood of patient complaints. We will also offer basic advocacy advice as to how to respond effectively to a patient complaint. We will explain the prevailing philosophy of the ICRC with respect to issues such as poor recordkeeping, lack of informed consent, billing irregularities and standards of practice issues.