Do you read every issue of your favourite magazine from cover to cover, or just flick through and glance at the pictures? Did you know that when CPD becomes compulsory for DCPs in July 2008, reading relevant magazines and journals will count towards your CPD hours? So if you haven't done so already, start taking a closer look at some of the articles in this issue of Vital, and see how much you've really absorbed using the new Test yourself boxes in the Advice section (pages 39-43).

In support of the self-improvement and training vibe, this issue is jam-packed with advice and guidance for DCPs. Enterprising new registrants should read the Vital guide to finance for an insight into profitable practice and fine-tuning your accounts, plus the educational article on marketing your practice on the net. Our features on patient allergies and the legalities behind tooth whitening also make essential reading for the dental team, not to mention ensuring that you're insured against all eventualities in day-to-day practice (page 41).

Photo: C. M. Maynard

Interaction with a steady stream of patients with their many different personalities and ailments is often cited as one of the key attractions to working in dentistry. But as you will have experienced, some patients can present more of a challenge to surgery staff than others. Past issues of Vital have touched on child protection (winter 05) and surviving tragedy (spring 05). As depicted by this issue's striking cover, the article beginning on page 26 examines the delicate subject of how the dental team can respond if they suspect a patient is suffering from domestic violence. Again, the importance of relevant training is emphasised.

As you browse the above topics, and the BDJ style clinical case report on page 37 (let us know if you want to see more of these in Vital!), you might be wondering how you are going to keep track of your CPD hours, whether you gain them from reading Vital or other publications and/or from attending conferences and courses. After all, the five year CPD cycle is a long time to keep track of your activities. To find the answer to this, consider introducing a Personal Development Plan to your practice. Julie Ferry explains what they're all about on pages 30-31.

DCP groups making a rare, but very welcome, appearance in this issue are orthodontic dental nurses, clinical dental technicians and dental therapists. See if you can spot them!

Kate Maynard, Editor k.maynard@nature.com