Summary
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.
What you will do at work
This role will provide efficient and reliable chairside support to clinicians while ensuring high standards of patient care, confidentiality, and GDPR compliance.
Day-to-day Dental Nurse duties may include:
- Welcoming patients and assisting with appointment scheduling
- Handling basic patient enquiries professionally and appropriately
- Preparing surgeries, sterilising instruments, and maintaining infection control to CQC standards
- Assisting clinicians during treatments and accurately updating patient records in line with GDPR
- Supporting patients’ comfort, reassurance, and overall dental experience
- Monitoring and managing stock, equipment, and surgery readiness
- Maintaining clean, safe, and fully equipped clinical areas
- Upholding patient privacy, dignity, and confidentiality at all times
- Collaborating with dentists and the wider team to deliver safe, efficient, and high-quality care
Requirements and skills
Skills
- Communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Organisation skills
- Customer care skills
- Administrative skills
- Team working
- Non judgemental
Qualifications
- GCSE English (4/C) – essential
- GCSE Maths (4/C) – essential
About this employer
An inclusive dental practice offering mixed NHS and private treatments, focused on developing the next generation of dental nurses.
After this apprenticeship
Your earnings can increase over time with an apprenticeship.
A career in dental nursing can grow in many rewarding directions. With experience, you could progress into roles such as Senior Dental Nurse, Lead Nurse, Treatment Coordinator, or Practice Manager. With further training, you could develop into a Dental Hygienist or Dental Therapist, delivering preventative, restorative, and routine treatments to patients.
You could also specialise as an Orthodontic Therapist, working with dental professionals to improve the alignment and appearance of patients’ teeth. The dental sector offers clear progression routes, recognised qualifications, and ongoing professional development to support your long-term career goals.
Things to consider
- Pass a DBS check
- Be willing to get Hepatitis B vaccinated