If you are planning to take a break from dentistry, it is important to keep up to date with the changes that will take place while you are away from practice and to maintain your Continuing Professional Development (CPD) as required by the GDC. Clinical techniques, best practice, standards, regulations etc. are changing and evolving more rapidly than ever.

Details about the GDC's CPD requirements can be found here.

A calendar of dental courses within the Directorate area is available through the online booking system.

In summary, things you should consider doing while you are on your break are;

• Keeping up your GDC registration.
• Retaining your membership of your defence organisation.
• Participating in CPD to a level well above that required by the GDC as a minimum to retain your registration.
• From 1st October 2016 the Directorate will be operating a Keeping in touch Scheme which is designed to support NHS Dentists, Therapists, Hygienists and Nurses who are taking a prolonged career break.  For further details please click here. If you feel you are eligible to apply please email to submit an application form.