Dental Nurse

A Dental Nurse assists Dentists, Therapists and Hygienists in the care of people.

You will provide essential support to Dentists during examinations and treatments, ensure the smooth flow of dental procedures, maintain sterilised instruments, and assist with administrative tasks. You will play a key role in creating a comfortable and efficient environment for both Dental Practitioners and people accessing services.

Some people will be there for a check-up while others will have more complicated treatment. You will need to reassure people and put them at ease, while supporting the team in all aspects of care.

Role Characteristics

Take responsibility for the decontamination of instruments
Maintain dental operating equipment
Ensure that all relevant materials and supplies are in place
Look after patient records – including making notes when the dentist is examining a person
Work closely with the dentist, responding quickly to requests
Generally keeping the surgery ready for use

Skills

Advice giving
Customer service
Operating equipment
Organisation
Team work
Time Management

Day in the life

Watch this video to find out more about studying Dental Nursing at Leeds Dental Institute.

Routes into this role

Here are some example routes that can lead into this role.

Apply directly

GCSEs

BTEC

T-Level

A-Levels

An apprenticeship

How to become

You will usually need 5 GCSEs or English and maths.

You will usually need 3 A-Levels including sciences, or equivalent such as a T-Level or BTEC depending on your preference in learning. However, volunteering and work experience is valued by employers.

You could complete an apprenticeship in Dental Nursing.

It is important to check your preferred course provider's entry requirements for guidance.

To practice as a Dental Nurse, you must be registered with the General Dental Council (GDC).

Where can this role lead

No matter what role you start in or where you are in your career path, there are always opportunities to develop and progress in health and care.

You could develop into a Team Leader, Manager or Dental Practice Manager position. With further training, you could serve in the Armed Forces as a Dental Nurse, become a Dental Hygienist or Dental Therapist with further training. You could become an Orthodontic Therapist to help Dentists improve the look and position of people's teeth.