Dental Nurse

The job of dental nurse can be an interesting and varied career. It also gives you an opportunity to get involved with dentistry work and build up your knowledge through practical work and on-the-job training. Therefore, many people see Dental Nursing as the perfect entry-level opportunity to the dental profession, so that they can develop their skills and ability and enjoy a rewarding career in the future.

What does the job involve?

Broadly speaking, there are two aspects to the work of a dental nurse. First and foremost, you support the dentist. This means ensuring that the dental surgery is prepared before the patient arrives. You will get the necessary instruments ready, mix materials and provide an extra pair of hands while the dentist is treating the patient.

Secondly, as well as supporting the dentist, a good Dental Nurse will play an important role in ensuring that the patient is relaxed, comfortable and at ease. This could include welcoming them into the surgery, ensuring they are comfortable in the dental chair and making sure that they feel relaxed about the forthcoming treatment.

Once the patient has left the surgery, you will also be required to tidy the surgery and prepare it for the next patient. It is particularly important that all of the dental instruments are cleaned and sterilised correctly. You may also be required to update patient records with information supplied by the dentist.

What qualifications do you need?

If you want to be a Dental Nurse, you must be registered with the General Dental Council. Registration requires that you have gained a relevant qualification that proves you have reached the accepted standard as a Dental Nurse.

The majority of Dental Nurses begin their careers as trainees or student Dental Nurses. They usually then study for a relevant qualification with the support of their practice and through study in the evenings. There are a number of different qualifications that you can work towards – for example, you can gain an NVQ Level 3 in Dental Nursing which shows the knowledge you have developed and the professional standard you have reached.

How do you develop your career?

Dental nurses have skills that are valued in a number of different environments. For example, you could begin your career in a small local practice or in a large hospital. Alternatively, Dental Nurses are also employed in the Army, Navy and RAF.

The knowledge, experience and qualifications that you gain as a Dental Nurse provide a good foundation to build on and they can lead to other opportunities within the dental profession. Many dental nurses go on to become Dental Hygienists and Dental Therapists, where they can work directly with their own patients in a more specialist role.