Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is a vital aspect of maintaining safe, effective, and up-to-date dental care. Overseen by the General Dental Council (GDC), the CPD requirements ensure that dental professionals across the UK are continually learning and improving their skills throughout their careers.
Recently, the GDC has announced updates to its CPD process, with the goal of making it more reflective, meaningful, and aligned with professional practice. Whether you're a dentist, dental nurse, hygienist, or technician, these changes affect you. In this blog, we’ll break down what’s new, what remains unchanged, and how to stay on track.
The recent changes aim to simplify the process of recording and submitting CPD, making it more straightforward for dental professionals to meet their obligations. They also help CPD providers issue valid certificates more efficiently. These updates respond to feedback from stakeholders who highlighted the practical difficulties many professionals face when documenting their learning.
By easing some of the administrative burden, the GDC hopes to allow dental professionals to concentrate on what truly matters—their ongoing professional development and the delivery of safe, effective patient care.
The GDC has introduced several updates to simplify how you record, verify, and submit your CPD. These changes are designed to reduce administrative burdens and help you meet your professional development requirements with greater ease. Here’s an overview of the key updates:
Registration numbers are no longer mandatory on CPD certificates. While you can still add it if you wish, it is no longer a requirement. The revised guidance now clearly reflects this update for both dental professionals and CPD providers.
Signatures on CPD certificates are no longer necessary to confirm the accuracy of the information. Instead, providers are encouraged to use statements such as:
"We confirm that the information provided on this certificate is full and accurate and that this CPD has been subject to quality assurance."
This confirmation can also be sent via email, with either a printed name or a signature. The sample CPD certificate has been updated to reflect this change.
Mapping documents no longer require a signature. A simple email from the CPD provider confirming that the relevant criteria have been met will suffice. If you are unable to complete a mapping document in full, you can submit alternative evidence, such as an email from the provider confirming that the CPD criteria have been met.
You are required to complete your CPD activities before the end of each five-year cycle. However, if you are unable to meet the requirements and have a valid reason, you can apply for a grace period, which can give you an additional 56 days. You must request a grace period via your eGDC or by email within the last six months of your CPD cycle. Please note that CPD hours completed outside of the relevant cycle will not be accepted unless a grace period has been agreed upon.
While the GDC has introduced some important improvements, the core structure of the Enhanced CPD scheme remains unchanged:
Minimum CPD Hours
You must still complete at least 10 hours of CPD in every two-year period and meet the minimum required hours over your five-year cycle (e.g., 100 hours for dentists and 75 for dental care professionals).
Annual CPD Declaration
You will continue to declare your CPD hours annually at the time of your registration renewal.
Personal Development Plan (PDP)
Your PDP remains a key tool for planning your learning and demonstrating its relevance to your scope of practice.
To properly record your CPD, you must maintain a personal development plan, link your activities to at least one development outcome, and keep either a certificate, a mapping document, or an email from the provider as evidence of verifiable CPD.
For more details, see the GDC Scheme for CPD.
To stay compliant with the updated CPD processes:
The GDC’s update to CPD processes is a positive step towards more meaningful, reflective learning across the dental profession. By aligning CPD with your real-world responsibilities and patient care goals, the GDC hopes to ensure dental professionals are supported in their development—now and into the future. Be sure to review your current CPD plans, explore the new tools available, and embrace this opportunity to shape your growth as a dental professional.
Staying on top of your CPD is just one part of building a successful dental career—partnering with the right agency is another. At Verovian Dental Agency, we’re committed to helping you thrive, whether you’re searching for locum roles, permanent placements, or career advice tailored to your goals. Let us connect you with opportunities that align with your expertise and ambitions. Register with us today and take the next step towards a fulfilling dental career.
Dentistry is a highly rewarding profession, but it comes with its fair share of challenges. Long hours, demanding patient expectations, and the pressure to provide high-quality care can contribute to stress and burnout. According to the British Dental Association (BDA), in a recent survey, stress levels among dentists are significantly higher than in many other professions, with mental health concerns becoming increasingly prevalent.
So, how can dentists manage stress while maintaining a successful career? Whether you're an associate, a locum, or running your practice, finding the right work-life balance is crucial. Here are some practical strategies to help you reduce stress and enjoy a more fulfilling career.
Before tackling stress, it’s crucial to recognise what’s causing it. For many dentists, heavy workloads, tight schedules, and financial pressures can quickly become overwhelming. The emotional toll of dealing with anxious or difficult patients can result in additional stress, while the never-ending cycle of regulatory paperwork can make the job feel more draining. On top of this, a lack of career satisfaction or poor work-life balance can leave many professionals feeling stuck and exhausted.
By identifying which factors contribute most to your stress, you can take proactive steps to manage them effectively.
Your work environment plays a crucial role in stress levels. Some settings may be more demanding than others, and finding a role that suits your career aspirations and lifestyle is key.
Managing time effectively can make a world of difference in reducing daily stress. One of the best ways to stay organised is by streamlining appointment scheduling. Tools like digital booking systems can help maintain a smooth patient flow, preventing last-minute rushes. Delegation is also essential for managing your workload. Delegate tasks when necessary to free up valuable time, allowing you to focus more on patient care and other key responsibilities.
Additionally, setting realistic goals is key to avoiding burnout. Overcommitting may seem productive, but consistently seeing too many patients in a day can quickly lead to exhaustion. By managing your workload wisely and prioritising efficiency, you can create a healthier, more balanced work routine.
Your well-being should be just as important as your patients'. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help combat stress:
A strong support system can make a significant difference in managing stress and maintaining well-being as a dentist.
Achieving a healthy work-life balance also involves setting clear boundaries between work and personal time. Taking regular, short breaks during the day, even between appointments, can give you the energy boost you need to stay focused and refreshed. When the workday ends, disconnecting from emails and messages is crucial for recharging and fully enjoying your personal time. Don’t forget to plan regular holidays and time off—these breaks not only prevent burnout but also allow you to return to work feeling rejuvenated and ready to tackle new challenges.
Stress is a reality for many dentists, but with the right strategies and career choices, it can be managed effectively. By prioritising time management, self-care, and supportive networks, you can maintain a healthy work-life balance while excelling in your profession.
Finding a job that aligns with your career goals and personal life is crucial. At Verovian Dental Agency, we match you with roles that fit your preferred working hours and lifestyle, offering career progression opportunities without compromising your well-being. We also provide flexible locum positions for those seeking more control over their schedule. If you're looking to improve your work-life balance, our team is here to help. Explore our latest opportunities today and take the first step towards a stress-free, fulfilling career!
