The regulator's enhanced CPD scheme has been running since 2018, yet every August and January registrants scramble to work out whether they have done enough. This guide sets out the rules once and for all.
The hours
Every registrant must complete a minimum number of verifiable CPD hours across a five-year cycle: 100 hours for dentists; 75 hours for dental hygienists, dental therapists, orthodontic therapists and clinical dental technicians; and 50 hours for dental nurses and dental technicians. If you hold more than one registration you meet the higher requirement.
You must also complete at least 10 hours in every consecutive two-year period, and you must declare your hours every year — even if the answer is zero.
What makes CPD verifiable?
Verifiable CPD must have concise educational aims and objectives, anticipated learning outcomes, quality-assurance processes, and documentary evidence — a certificate — issued by the provider. Every UISC Edu Skill certificate lists all four, which is why it can go straight into your record.
Recommended topics
The regulator "highly recommends" three topics: medical emergencies (at least 10 hours per cycle, with a refresher every year), disinfection and decontamination (at least 5 hours per cycle) and radiography and radiation protection (at least 5 hours per cycle). It also recommends legal and ethical issues, complaints handling, oral cancer early detection and safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults.
Your PDP and annual statement
You need a personal development plan that links your CPD to your field of practice, and you must submit an annual statement through your online CPD record by 28 January (dentists) or 28 August (dental care professionals). Keep your certificates for five years after the end of the cycle in case you are audited.
The easiest way to stay on track
Pick your core topics first, spread them across the cycle rather than cramming in year five, and log each certificate the day you receive it. Our free enhanced CPD guide includes a printable planner to map the whole cycle.
