What you will do in your working day
The role of a dental nurse is to assist the dental surgeon or dental hygienist with all clinical aspects of the surgery. This can include the following aspects:
* Meeting, greeting and caring for patients in a polite and professional manner at all times
* Working closely with the dentist or hygienist in a professional and appropriate manner
* Providing chair-side assistance during all dental procedures, using four-handed dentistry and remaining a step ahead at all times
* Updating computer records, patient's personal files, taking notes and recording clinical assessments
* Cleaning the surgery to a high standard, maintaining strict cross-infection control and adhering to policies and standards as set by the GDC in line with The Health Technical Memoranda
* Preparing instruments and materials before and during treatments and maintaining stock control
* Re-processing re-usable items in the correct manner to ensure sterilisation has been appropriately achieved
The training you will be getting
* Level 3 Advanced Dental Nurse Diploma offers employment within a dental practice which is accredited by City & Guilds. It enables you to develop the skills, knowledge, and behaviours needed to work competently in all aspects of clinical responsibilities in dentistry
* Your qualification will also provide you with the relevant qualification to apply for professional registration as a dental nurse with the General Dental Council (GDC)
What you will study:
* The Role of a Dental Nurse and Legislation Health & Safety Cross Infection Control Anatomy and Treatment Planning Medical Emergencies and First Aid Dental Radiography Oral Hygiene Orthodontics, Endodontic and Oral Surgery Restorations, Gingival Health and Prosthetics
* You will complete on and off the job training whilst being fully supported throughout, progressing to 'gateway' and finally sit your end point assessment (EPA)
What to expect at the end of your apprenticeship
* A good route into the role of a dental hygiene/therapist, dental radiographer, treatment coordinator, or specialist surgery such as maxillofacial/theatre nurse. Once qualified the career progression routes are endless, you could even possibly become a team leader or dental practice manager