Apprentice Dental Nurse

Introduction

An exciting opportunity to start your career as an Apprentice Dental Nurse in a friendly dental practice. You will work towards the Level 3 Dental Nurse Apprenticeship with Colchester Institute, attending college one day each fortnight. Duties include assisting the dentist, preparing instruments and maintaining a clean, organised surgery.

About the Employer

West Square Dental Practice is a well-established dental practice in Maldon, Essex, dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalised dental care for the whole family. Their team of experienced and friendly dentists, hygienists, and nurses are committed to creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for all patients.

The practice offers a wide range of dental services, including general checkups, hygiene appointments, fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures, teeth whitening, and cosmetic dentistry. They also provide emergency dental care for urgent situations. West Square Dental Practice utilises the latest technology and techniques to ensure patients receive the highest quality of care.

Whether you are looking for routine dental care or more complex treatments, West Square Dental Practice is here to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health. Their friendly and professional team will work with you to create a personalised treatment plan that meets your individual needs and goals.

What You'll Do

Your main duties will be assisting the dentist with preparing instruments and equipment, mixing different materials as required and providing suction support.

You will undertake your practical duties such as:

• Cross infection control and decontamination
• Chair side clinical treatments supporting the dentist
• Processing of x-rays
• Accurate record keeping in line with the GDPR

Possible rotation in the practice may also involve working in central decontamination and reception duties.

Training Outcome

• Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship you will gain a Licence to Practice Qualification that will allow you to register with the General Dental Council (GDC) and you can move into registered/qualified positions. Once qualified and GDC-registered, dental nurses can work in NHS or private practices, community dental services, hospitals or the armed forces
• There are also opportunities to progress into dental radiography, oral health education, orthodontic nursing, sedation nursing, dental practice management, and dental hygiene or therapy (with additional training)

Skills Required

• Communication skills
• Attention to detail
• Customer care skills
• Team working
• Initiative
• Non judgemental
• Patience
• Trustworthiness
• Manual dexterity

Qualifications

• Essential - GCSE - 5 GCSEs including English and maths - A*-C/9-4
• Desired - GCSE - science is also preferred for career progression - A*-C/9-4

Course Information

Course: Dental nurse (level 3)

Level: 3

Route: Health and science

Apprenticeship Level: Advanced

Working Arrangements

Working Week: Monday - Friday, 8.45am - 5.15pm.

Expected Duration: 1 Year 6 Months

Training Provider: COLCHESTER INSTITUTE