A dental nurse is a key figure within the dental team. Dentistry simply would not happen without the dental nurse.
A dental nurse is responsible for the decontamination of instruments, making sure the surgery is clean and safe for the dental team and patients, organising operating equipment and communicating with patients in a way that puts them at ease and helps them through their dental treatment.
A qualified dental nurse will complete a diploma in dental nursing in order to work as a registered dental nurse in the UK. Whilst undertaking this diploma, they are required to work a number of hours in general practice to gain valuable practical experience. After gaining their diploma, the dental nurse might choose to work in general practice, within a dental hospital or community clinic setting.
Good communication and teamworking skills are a must. The dental nurse might choose to further their skills by completing further courses and qualifications. In developing their skills they might learn to take dental x-rays or to apply high fluoride strengthening medicine to the teeth as part of an extended duties role.
Visit the rest of this floor to learn about what life is like as a dental nurse in Wales!
