Overview
The apprenticeship in dental nursing is an 18-month government funded course.
Responsibilities
* City & Guilds Level 3 Extended Diploma in Dental Nursing. The job entails assisting the dentist, sterilising equipment, reception and any other ad hoc duties as may be required. Provide efficient and reliable chair-side support to Practice Clinicians.
* The role will also require working in other areas of the practice, such as reception.
* Dealing with patient queries; answering the phone; taking payments; booking appointments.
* Identify relevant and appropriate dental, oral, craniofacial, and general anatomy, recognising the diversity of anatomy across the patient population.
* Evaluate health risks related to prescribed, non-prescribed and recreational drug use and misuse on oral and general health.
* Evaluate the scientific principles underpinning the use of materials and biomaterials, their limitations and selection, with emphasis on those used in dentistry.
* Identify signs of abuse, neglect or emotional trauma and explain local and national safeguarding systems for children and adults.
* Identify signs of normal and abnormal facial growth and development milestones and explain their significance.
* Assess patients’ levels of anxiety, experience and expectations in respect of dental care and oral health.
* Contribute to relevant special investigations and diagnostic procedures; undertake orthodontic assessment; obtain valid consent within scope of practice; record patient history and dental charting.
* Prepare records, images, equipment and materials for clinical assessment; process and manage dental radiographs and images.
* Manage patient anxiety, provide reassurance, and communicate effectively to support patients through care.
* Make arrangements for follow-up care as prescribed; provide chairside support during treatment; prepare, mix and handle dental materials.
* Identify and explain risks within the clinical environment and manage these safely; implement and manage infection control procedures according to current guidelines.
* Prepare and maintain the clinical environment including instruments and equipment; identify, assess and manage medical emergencies.
* Provide personalised preventive advice and encourage self-care to maintain and improve oral health.
* Support management of patients with acute oral conditions with appropriate team involvement; adopt an evidence-based approach to clinical practice.
* Communicate effectively with all patients, the public and colleagues (including non-English speakers, where necessary with interpreters); maintain accurate patient records in line with legal requirements.
* Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, respect, teamwork and patient-centred care; raise concerns about health, behaviour or performance when appropriate.
* Work in partnership with colleagues to promote safety and wellbeing; lead or support others as appropriate within competence and professional practice.
* Support patients in navigating barriers to accessing oral healthcare and respect diversity among patients and colleagues.
* Be reflective and committed to continuous professional development, safeguarding, and wellbeing.
* Underpin patient care with a preventive approach to support long-term oral and general health.
* Identify relevant anatomy and health issues and apply evidence-based practice to dental nursing.
* Be responsive to changes in clinical practice and technology and evaluate their impact on patient care.
Progression and Roles
* With experience you may move into roles such as team manager, team leader or dental practice manager.
* With further training you could become a dental therapist or dental hygienist; you might train as an orthodontic therapist to support dentists with certain procedures.
Qualifications and Details
* This qualification is a Level 3 Dental Nurse (Integrated) Advanced Apprenticeship accredited by City & Guilds, delivered nationwide through blended interactive e-learning, enabling learners to access the course from anywhere in the UK.
* Upon achievement the apprentice will be awarded a Diploma in Dental Nursing Level 3.
* Functional Skills English & Maths at Level 2 qualifications unless exempt; GCSE Maths and English (grade 4) if applicable.
* Organization skills, customer care skills, administrative skills, team working, initiative, non-judgemental approach and patience are part of the core competencies.
Beaufort Dental Care is a well established dental practice in Burton-on-Trent with an excellent reputation for listening to and caring for patients. The practice aims to deliver an exceptional experience from the moment you walk through the door, supported by a skilled and friendly team.
Contractual Details
* Salary: £15,704 to £25,396.80, depending on age.
* Hours: Varied shifts; Monday 08:00–19:00, Tuesday 08:00–20:00, Wednesday 08:00–19:00, Thursday 08:00–19:00, Friday 08:00–17:00; 40 hours per week.
* Start date: Sunday 9 November 2025; Duration: 1 year 6 months.
* Notes: National Minimum Wage; Training course details and additional information available on Health Careers resources.
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