What is the process of becoming a dental nurse in the UK?
Introduction:
Becoming a dental nurse in the United Kingdom is an exciting and fulfilling career path within the healthcare sector. Dental nurses play a vital role in assisting dentists and ensuring smooth operations in dental practices. This information pack provides an overview of the process to become a dental nurse in the UK.
1. Qualifications and Training:
To become a qualified dental nurse, individuals typically need to complete a course accredited by the General Dental Council (GDC). The most common route is to undertake a Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing accredited by the National Examining Board for Dental Nurses (NEBDN). This course is offered part-time by the School of Dental Nursing and can be studied face-to-face in class in West London or online with maximum flexibility learning at your own pace.
Entry criteria: There are no formal entry qualifications, but students are expected to be sufficiently fluent in both written and spoken English to communicate effectively with patients, their relatives, the dental team, and other healthcare professionals in the UK. Additionally, learners must meet the following requirements:
- Be UK residents
- Be eligible to work in the UK as Trainee Dental Nurses
- Be aged 16 and above for online delivery and 18 for face-to-face (on-campus) courses.
2. Work Experience:
Gaining practical experience is an essential part of this dental nursing course. You will need to work in a Dental Practice as a Trainee Dental Nurse and the School can help you secure a paid employment. This hands-on experience enables learners to complete their Record of Experience (RoE) and complements the theoretical knowledge gained during the training course provided by the School of Dental Nursing.
3. Course Content:
The dental nursing course covers a wide range of subjects, including oral health, infection control, radiography, dental anatomy, and medical emergencies. Practical skills are also emphasised, such as chairside assistance, maintaining patient records and providing support during various dental procedures.
4. Examinations:
There are two parts of the exam that you are required to pass in order to obtain your National Diploma in Dental Nursing after completing your RoE portfolio. The first part consists of a written exam, which you will need to pass to proceed to the next phase. The second part is the practical Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) exam. We provide extra mock OSCE sessions for our students in order to help them to be fully prepared to enter the examination with confidence.
5. GDC Registration:
Upon successful completion of the dental nursing course, the diploma holders will be able to register with the General Dental Council (GDC) to legally practice as a dental nurse in the UK. GDC registration ensures that dental nurses adhere to professional standards and maintain their skills through continuing professional development (CPD).
6. Career Progression:
Once you have completed the National Diploma course and registered with the GDC, dental nurses have the opportunity to explore various career paths. Some dental nurses may choose to progress to Dental Hygienist or Dental Therapist and some specialise in areas like orthodontics or oral surgery, while others might pursue roles in dental education, management, or sales. Continuous learning and CPD are essential for career advancement.
7. Personal Qualities:
Successful dental nurses possess qualities such as excellent communication skills, empathy, attention to detail, and the ability to work well in a team. Compassion and a genuine interest in patient care are essential for building positive relationships with both patients and colleagues.
In Summary:
Becoming a dental nurse in the UK involves completing an accredited diploma in dental nursing course, gaining practical experience and registering with the General Dental Council. It is a rewarding career that offers opportunities for growth and specialisation within the dental healthcare field.
