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The role of a dental nurse is to assist a dentist in caring for patients. Additionally, dental nurses may also be required to carry out reception work along with other administrative tasks.

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FAQs

FAQs

What does a Dental nurse do?

The general day-to-day tasks of a dental nurse include:

Setting up and cleaning the patient's seat and dentist's working station
Removing water and saliva from the patient's mouth during treatment
Supporting the dentist in treatment and surgery dental procedures
Ensuring availability of instruments and equipment
Passing instruments and equipment dentists' request
Maintaining stock
Executing and processing radiographs
Preparing materials to make fillings
Sterilising instruments
Helping record information about each patient
Making sure that the patient is relaxed and comfortable at all times
Keeping the surgery tidy and sterile
Greeting and reassuring patients.
They may also be required to assist with the reception area, booking appointments and taking payments

Skills & interests required for a Dental nurse

[list] Practical skills

People and communication skills
A calm, confident and reassuring manner
Ability to effectively communicate with all patient age groups
Excellent team working skills
Ability to relate well to people, including children and those with special needs
Physical ability to stand for long periods of time
Ability to stay calm in stressful conditions
Organisational skills

What hours does a Dental nurse typically do?

Dental nurses are usually required to work standard office hours from 9am - 5pm, Monday to Friday. Additionally, they may need to work some evenings if the practice stays open later.

Dental nurses who work in hospitals may also be required to be on call at night and the weekend for emergencies.

What environment is a Dental nurse based in?

A dental nurse is generally based with a dental practice or a hospital, spending most of their time assisting a dentist in the treatment room. However, dental nurses also work in the armed forces and at universities and corporate dental services.

How much does a Dental nurse travel?

The only travel usually incurred for dental nurses is from home to their work base.

How much does a Dental nurse get paid?

The starting salary for an entry-level dental nurse can vary depending on location, however they expect to earn £17,000 - £19,750 per annum.

With experience a dental nurse will become a dental nurse specialist and can expect to earn between £22,000 and £28,500 per annum. These pay rates tend to be relatively similar across the NHS and private dental practice employment contracts.

Perks & benefits

The majority of medical professionals, including dental nurses, feel that the ability to help people is a rewarding and beneficial experience.

What qualifications does a Dental nurse need?

To enter the profession of a dental nurse it is usually required to undertake a full-time college course in dental nursing. It is also possible to work as a trainee in a dental practice if studying part-time. The ultimate result of these efforts is a qualification approved by the General Dental Council, which allows dental nurses to register within this professional body.