Sir, within dentistry, we should all be aware of the risks posed by the rising cases of misogynistic extremism. Members of radicalised communities pose the threat of extremist violence aligned with their misogyny and beliefs.

Multiple movements have contributed to the formation of extreme misogynistic communities. Anti-feminist ideas have seen the creation of such groups as Men Going Their Own Way in the early 2000s, and seemingly harmless online forums. The online capacity to express thoughts and discussions behind the guise of anonymity allowed subcultures to develop, demonstrating a hostile environment of sexual objectification, hatred, rape culture, and endorsement of sexual and nonsexual violence against women. Incel (involuntary celibate) communities have developed from these forums and the association with extremist violence has been evidenced since 2014.

Self-identified incels have been perpetrators of mass murders, committing murders under the rhetoric of hate and extremism directed at the people who they believe contribute towards their perceived male oppression.

Dentistry may seem like a strange place to acknowledge the risks of individuals or groups who are susceptible or are actively radicalised by online communities, but the principles of safeguarding require the profession to be informed of these risks.

The dental workforce is made up of approximately 75% women. Misogynistic extremism has a primary target of women; however, the prejudice can expand further than this group of individuals depending on the ideologies at play. This, sadly, means that any member of staff may be subject to verbal abuse, physical harm, or extreme violence. As evidenced from previous extremist attacks aligned with misogynistic communities, the threat to individuals can be due to ‘wrong place, wrong time' or can be pre-meditated in nature.

Misogynistic extremism may be actioned in the form of violent attacks. Lone-working women are at the highest risk of being targeted and, unfortunately, we see this arrangement often occur in dental settings. The vulnerable state of patients at a dental appointment, combined with nerves and possible pain from dental problems, or having women in an authoritative position, may result in a heightened emotional response. GDC principles state that the dental team will ‘Raise concerns if patients are at risk' and the duty of care extends further than just to the patient themselves. Protection of colleagues, patients and the public will be a further action of raising concerns regarding misogynistic behaviour.

The concept of ‘professional curiosity' should be part of the relationship between practitioners and patients. This does not indicate the need for interrogation, but a critical evaluation of the information displayed. If dental professionals are not aware of the risk of misogynistic extremism, they may not be able to critically evaluate a patient who presents with warning signs of radicalisation or language indicative of this type of extremism. Safeguarding practice leads should be aware of misogynistic extremism and the possibility of it affecting members of the team and community. In future, safeguarding training may embed knowledge on this topic as standard, so all members of the team are introduced to this form of extremist risk.