It just got real. But how real?

CPD stands for continuing professional development. It refers to the process of tracking and documenting the skills, knowledge and experience that you gain both formally and informally as you work, beyond any initial training. It’s a record of what you experience, learn and then apply.

You will hopefully already be aware that, from 1 August 2018, all dental care professionals (DCPs) will be moved on to the enhanced CPD (ECPD) scheme.

Under the ECPD scheme, the CPD requirement for DCPs will be changing. Registered dental nurses and dental technicians will need to complete a minimum of 50 hours verifiable CPD. Dental therapists, dental hygienists, orthodontic therapists and clinical dental technicians will need to complete a minimum of 75 hours verifiable CPD. CPD is important because it ensures you continue to be competent in your profession. It is an ongoing process and continues throughout a professional’s career. Boyle and Boyle (2004).