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How to… Be a Dental Nurse

17th September 2013
HOW TO BE A…
DENTAL NURSE
IF you have an interest in oral health and hygiene and like science then a career as a dental nurse could be perfect for you.
Dental nurses assist dentists in all aspects of patient care.
Hours of work will generally be Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm but an increasing number of surgeries are now offering weekend and evening opening hours.
Most dental nurses begin their career by starting as a trainee with a general dental practice and study towards either the National Certificate in Dental Nursing or the level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing. 
While there are no specific entry qualifications needed while training towards a dental qualification, most employers and colleges will look for a good general education.
Qualified NHS dental nurses can expect to earn around £16,000 a year when starting out and rising to £22,000 with experience.
Skills and qualities needed:
· Good organisation skills – you may be required to help with admin and receptionist duties.
· Excellent cleanliness – your role will involve keeping the surgery and instruments sterile and tidy.
· The ability to calm and reassure nervous patients.
· Good note taking ability – you will be responsible for keeping accurate patient records.
· A friendly and approachable personality.
For more information visit the General Dental Council website at www.gdc-uk.org.

IF you have an interest in oral health and hygiene and like science then a career as a dental nurse could be perfect for you.

Dental nurses assist dentists in all aspects of patient care.

Hours of work will generally be Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm but an increasing number of surgeries are now offering weekend and evening opening hours.

Most dental nurses begin their career by starting as a trainee with a general dental practice and study towards either the National Certificate in Dental Nursing or the level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing. 

While there are no specific entry qualifications needed while training towards a dental qualification, most employers and colleges will look for a good general education.

Qualified NHS dental nurses can expect to earn around £16,000 a year when starting out and rising to £22,000 with experience.

Skills and qualities needed:

Good organisation skills – you may be required to help with admin and receptionist duties.

Excellent cleanliness – your role will involve keeping the surgery and instruments sterile and tidy.

The ability to calm and reassure nervous patients.

A Good note taking ability – you will be responsible for keeping accurate patient records.

A friendly and approachable personality.

For more information visit the General Dental Council website at www.gdcuk.org.

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