Non-stick properties of thin-film coatings on dental-restorative instruments.

The non-stick properties of thin-film coatings on dental-restorative instruments were investigated by static contact-angle measurement using dental filler resin as well as by scanning electron microscopy of the amount of sticking dental restorative material. Furthermore, using a customized dipping measurement set-up, non-stick properties were evaluated by measuring force-by-time when the instrument was pulled out of restorative material. Minor improvements in non-stick properties were obtained with commercial diamond-like carbon and commercial polytetrafluoroethylene-based coatings.

Recommendations for the development of e-modules for the continuing professional development of European dentists.

Aims: To provide evidence-based and peer-reviewed recommendations for the development of dental continuing professional development (CPD) learning e-modules.

Methods: The present recommendations are consensus recommendations of the DentCPD project team and were informed by a literature research, consultations from e-learning and IT expert, discussions amongst the participants attending a special interest group during the 2012 ADEE meeting, and feedback from the evaluation procedures of the exemplar e-module (as described in a companion paper within this Supplement). The main focus of these recommendations is on the courses and modules organised and offered by dental schools.

The development of an exemplar e-module for the continuing professional development of European dentists.

Aim: To present the development of an exemplar e-module for dental continuing professional development (CPD) provided by dental schools and other dental educational providers.

Materials And Methods: The exemplar e-module covered the topic of 'Sterilisation and cross-infection control in the dental practice' as this is one of the most recommended topics for dental CPD in Europe. It was developed by a group of topic experts, adult learning and distance learning experts and a technical developer.

Guidelines for the organisation of continuing professional development activities for the European dentist.

Aim: Free movement of dental professionals across the European Union calls for more uniform continuing education in dentistry to ensure up-to-date, high-quality patient care and patient safety. This article provides guidelines for the management and delivery of high-quality continuing professional development (CPD) by European dental schools and other CPD providers.

Method: The guidelines are based on an extensive literature inventory, a survey of existing practices (both available as separate publications), discussions during meetings of the Association for Dental Education in Europe in 2011 and 2012 and debate amongst the members of the DentCPD project team representing six dental schools.

Core continuing professional development (CPD) topics for the European dentist.

Introduction: In the context of free movement, EU-citizens need assurance that dental practitioners providing their care have a degree/license to practice that meets EU-standards and that they maintain their knowledge and skills through ongoing education.

Aim: One aim of the 'DentCPD' project (HYPERLINK 'http://www.dentcpd.