- The most appropriate action is to report the incident to the state dental regulatory authority because patient safety is paramount.
- Treating patients while intoxicated significantly compromises care quality and safety.
- Regulatory authorities are responsible for investigating professional misconduct and ensuring appropriate remedial actions.
- Direct confrontation or informing patients may not effectively address the risk, while ignoring the issue allows harm to continue.
- This approach upholds professional accountability and protects public trust.

Reference: Principles and Practice of Dental Ethics, Vol. 2, Chapter 5, Page 78