In an important step forwards, the GDC has recognised special care dentistry (SCD) as a specialty. The regulations which enable the opening of a new Specialist List in SCD were approved by the Council at its meeting in September. SCD is concerned with the improvement of oral health of individuals and groups in society who have a physical, sensory, intellectual, mental, medical, emotional or social impairment or disability or, more often, a combination of these factors. DCPs are likely to find themselves increasingly involved in the care of such individuals.