Dr. Edoardo Cavallé
In 2025, the Working Group focused on navigating the complexities of the Medical Devices Regulation (MDR) to safeguard the interests of dental practitioners and patient care. Throughout the year, the WG actively engaged with the European Commission’s targeted evaluation of the MDR, notably through the submission of detailed feedback to the public consultation in the first quarter.
One of the key developments was the adoption of the Updated CED Statement on the implementation of the MDR in May 2025. Through this position, the CED called for a pragmatic approach to clinical data requirements, particularly for proven dental devices that have been on the market for years without incident. Additionally, the CED was approached by the European Commission with a request to nominate healthcare professional representatives for an in-person workshop regarding the ongoing MDR evaluations. Active participation in this meeting ensured that CED priorities on the topic were highlighted, particularly to advocate for reduced administrative burdens and the continued accessibility of medical devices.
In the latter half of the year, the WG addressed the targeted revision of EU rules for medical devices, submitting a robust reply to the Commission’s October call for input. The CED’s contributions consistently emphasized the need for a pragmatic legislative framework that prioritizes clinical focus over bureaucracy. The WG remains committed to ensuring that the voice of the dental profession is central to the future of EU medical device policy.
Dr. Peter Kukolík
In 2025, the Working Group e-Health focused on the digital transformation of dentistry, prioritizing cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), and the implementation of the European Health Data Space (EHDS).
Early in the year, the WG focused on updating the CED Resolution on Artificial Intelligence in Dentistry, which was formally adopted in May 2025. This work was central to setting strategic goals for digital dentistry through 2030 and ensuring a clear professional framework for AI integration. Following the publication of the EHDS in the EU Journal in March 2025, the group remained active in monitoring its transition toward implementation. In the context of the TEHDAS2 Joint Action, the WG expressed critical concerns regarding the administrative and financial burdens that secondary health data use could impose on smaller dental practices.
The WG prepared a response to a questionnaire within the framework of the Polish EU Presidency, emphasizing the need for clear information from manufacturers and guidance for dentists to ensure patient data protection. Additionally, the group examined and provided feedback to the European Commission’s Action Plan on Cybersecurity for healthcare providers, noting that while it aims to strengthen sector resilience, certain obligations may pose practical challenges for small-scale dental settings.
Furthermore, the WG closely followed the interplay between the AI Act and the Medical Device Regulation, ensuring that AI integration in dentistry remains ethical, safe, and clinically effective. Moving forward, the WG remains committed to advocating for proportional and feasible digital policies that support the dental profession without adding undue bureaucratic complexity.
Prof. Dr. Katalin Nagy
In 2025, the Working Group Education and Professional Qualifications pursed its work for the advancement, strengthening and better harmonisation of dental education across Europe. This year, strong emphasis was placed on undergraduate dental education, towards clarifying and realigning clinical training requirements with the current requirements and competences of today’s dental professionals.
This work was guided by the expected publication of the Professional Qualifications Directive Implementation Report and of the launch of the Union of Skills in March 2025, associated with the announcement of a future Skills Portability Initiative.
The Working Group also continued its efforts for international cross-collaboration in the field of dental and oral health education, including with the Association for Dental Education in Europe (ADEE), the European Dental Students Association (EDSA), and well as the Federation of European Dental Competent Authorities and Regulators (FEDCAR), the latter particularly regarding policy issues.
The WG participated in ADEE’s stakeholder review event of the Graduating European Dentist (GED) curriculum framework in February and maintained regular exchanges throughout 2025.
Other on-going priorities include continuing professional development (CPD), recognition processes for EU and third-country incoming dentists, competence-based requirements and theoretical and practical training of undergraduate dentists, as well as the structure of the dental team, and the practice of dental specialists across Europe.
Dr. Vasileios Stathopoulos
Working Group Oral Health had a very productive year, with the development and adoption of 4 important policy papers. These include several updates, such as the CED Resolution on Reducing Sugar Consumption and Preventing Oral Diseases, the CED Resolution on Tobacco, Alternative Tobacco and Tobacco-Free Nicotine Products, and the CED Resolution on Antimicrobial Resistance, One Health and Oral Health. We also published a new paper, providing fresh insights into the role of dental professionals in promoting oral health and healthy ageing, in collaboration with an expert in the field.
At the same time, our group actively engaged in several European public consultations and maintained active monitoring of on-going legislative developments, including in the field of cardiovascular health, and legislation addressing major risk factors such as tobacco, sugar, alcohol and ultra-processed foods.
We have also continuously emphasised the importance of acknowledging oral health within broader health considerations. We therefore call for the systematic inclusion of oral health professionals in conversations on associated health conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, obstructive sleep apnea, and cancer.
I can mention a major win in this direction, with the adoption of the UN Political Declaration on NCDs and Mental Health, incorporating oral diseases among the main NCDs threatening human health. The WG will continue its efforts in this direction and promote the role of dental professionals in improving the overall conditions and outcomes of patients suffering from these diseases.
Prof. Dr. Ioannis Tzoutzas
In 2025, the Working Group addressed various aspects of clinical safety and infection control within dental practices. Throughout the year, the group focused on technical topics such as instrument sterilisation, wipes’ performance in disinfection, and the practical application of safety protocols in the dental setting.
The WG also monitored developments from the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) regarding the potential reclassification of ethanol under the REACH Regulation. This monitoring aimed to assess any potential implications for the availability of disinfectants and other dental-related applications.
In parallel, the WG progressed in its work on custom-made athletic mouthguards, discussing practice standards and regulatory considerations. This work led to the adoption of the CED Recommendation Paper on Custom-made Mouthguards at the November General Meeting, providing an updated reference for dental professionals across Europe. Moving forward, the WG will continue to follow infection control trends and chemical regulations to ensure they remain practical for the profession.