Overview
The apprenticeship in dental nursing is an 18-month government funded course by City & Guilds, a Level 3 Extended Diploma. Alongside your learning your job role within the practice will entail assisting dentists, sterilising & preparing equipment, reception duties and supporting patient experience.
The day-to-day duties of a dental nurse can span across all areas of the practice and can include:
* Reception including answering the phone and greeting patients
* Dealing with patient queries
* Taking payments
* Booking appointments and follow-ups
* Sterilising and preparing equipment for dentists
* Recording and dealing with patient records
* Supporting patients' wellbeing and dental experience
* Cleaning dental areas including chairs
* Managing stock of equipment and supplies
* Any other duties to support the dentists and senior team to provide effective patient care
Additional expectations include the development of professional and clinical competencies across dental anatomy, health promotion, safeguarding, consent, record-keeping, radiography, infection control, patient communication, and teamwork as part of a modern dental team.
Qualifications and progression
This qualification is a level 3 advanced apprenticeship accredited by City & Guilds and is delivered nationwide through blended interactive E-Learning. Upon achievement, the apprentice will be awarded a Diploma in Dental Nursing Level 3. Functional Skills English & maths level 2 qualifications, unless already exempt. GCSE in Maths and English (grade 4) or equivalent may be required. The apprenticeship can be adjusted to reflect what you already know.
With further training you could become a dental therapist, helping a dentist carry out the more routine dentistry work. You could also become a dental hygienist, helping people to look after their teeth and gums. You might decide to train as an orthodontic therapist helping dentists to improve the look and position of a patient’s teeth.
Responsibilities and professional competencies
* Communication skills
* IT skills
* Attention to detail
* Organisation skills
* Customer care skills
* Administrative skills
* Team working
* Non judgemental
* Patience
Compensation, hours and start date
£15,704 for your first year, then could increase depending on your age. Hours: Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm. 40 hours a week. Start date: Saturday 29 November 2025. Duration: 1 year 6 months.
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