Perhaps more than ever before, this issue of Vital is about inspirational DCPs who are thriving in the dental industry. Cover star Sylvie has over 25 years' experience in dentistry and is still bursting with enthusiasm for new experiences and achieving new goals. Rebecca Smith-Wightman has been sweeping the decks at award ceremonies and Mhari Coxon went from dental nurse to hygienist to starting her own business (page 18). Turn the page to learn their secrets...

If you are a little less sure of your achievements so far in your career, perhaps you need to take a moment to consider this. As Debbie Reed says on page 42, ‘Often tasks are so routine to us as DCPs that we do not take time to consider the importance or significance, or the skills involved, in carrying them out, never mind trying to articulate that information in a clear and positive way.’ Every DCP is a valuable member of the dental team and if you believe it, others will too.

Continue to enhance and increase your knowledge with the CPD articles this issue (page 37 and 47). Don't forget that you can now take part online or through the post. If you're ready for a more significant career move, this issue also features the annual update of the Vital DCP course directory (page 13).

What will your next move be?

Kate Maynard Editor vitaleditorial@nature.com