Introduction

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.

About the Employer

An inclusive dental practice offering mixed NHS and private treatments, focused on developing the next generation of dental nurses.

What You'll Do

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

Training Outcome

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.

Skills Required

Administrative Skills
Analytical Skills
Attention to Detail
Customer Care Skills
Initative
IT Skills
Logical
Non judgemental
Number Skills
Organisational Skills
Patience
Physical Fitness
Presentation Skills
Problem Solving Skills
Teamworking
Communication Skills

Qualifications

Desired - GCSE - Maths - 4
Desired - GCSE - English - 4

Course Information

Course: Dental nurse (level 3)

Level: 3

Route: Health and science

Apprenticeship Level: Advanced

Working Arrangements

Working Week: Monday 8.45am to 5.15pm Tuesday 8.00am to 7.15pm Wednesday 8.00am to 5.15pm Thursday 8.00am to 5.15pm Friday 8.00am to 5.15pm, all with a 1-hour lunch

Expected Duration: 1 Year 6 Months

Training Provider: TEMP DENT DENTAL AGENCY LIMITED

1 Riverdale Healthcare - Chester-Le-Street jobs in England & Wales