Lead Dental Nurse/Receptionist
Reports to
Principal Dentist
Job Purpose
We are seeking an experienced, motivated and patient-focused GDC Registered Dental Nurse to join our team as our Lead Dental Nurse/Receptionist
This role is ideal for an established Lead Dental Nurse or an experienced Dental Nurse who is ready to take the next step in their career. We are looking for someone with excellent clinical knowledge, exceptional communication skills and a passion for delivering outstanding customer service. Alongside leading the nursing team, the successful candidate will play a key role in supporting reception and ensuring every patient receives a seamless, welcoming and professional experience from their first enquiry through to the completion of their treatment.
The successful candidate will lead by example, helping to create a positive, professional and supportive working environment where patients receive exceptional care and the practice operates efficiently.
Key Responsibilities Clinical Responsibilities
- Provide high-quality chairside support for a wide range of dental procedures.
- Deliver exceptional patient care while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism.
- Prepare surgeries efficiently before and after treatment.
- Maintain and monitor cross-infection prevention and decontamination procedures in accordance with HTM 01-05 guidance.
- Ensure all clinical equipment is maintained, serviced and functioning correctly.
- Support clinicians in delivering efficient, safe and high-quality treatment.
- Assist with stock control and ordering of clinical materials and equipment.
Leadership Responsibilities
- Lead, motivate and support the dental nursing team.
- Act as a positive role model, promoting professionalism and teamwork.
- Mentor newly qualified nurses and support the development of all team members.
- Assist with induction, training and competency development.
- Help coordinate daily clinical workloads and surgery allocation.
- Support the Practice Manager with staffing, organisation and clinical resources.
- Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, patient care and team performance.
- Foster a positive culture of accountability, continuous improvement and excellent patient care.
Reception and Patient Experience
The successful candidate must be confident and experienced in reception duties and committed to delivering an exceptional patient experience.
Responsibilities include:
- Welcoming every patient in a friendly, professional and caring manner.
- Providing outstanding customer service both face-to-face and over the telephone.
- Managing clinicians' diaries efficiently to maximise surgery utilisation while maintaining an excellent patient experience.
- Booking appointments and responding promptly to telephone, email and online enquiries.
- Managing cancellations, failed appointments and short-notice diary changes effectively.
- Processing payments accurately and confidently discussing treatment costs where appropriate.
- Maintaining accurate patient records and ensuring confidentiality at all times.
- Liaising with patients regarding appointments, recalls and outstanding treatment.
- Working closely with clinicians to ensure smooth patient flow throughout the day.
- Supporting reception colleagues during busy periods and helping to maintain a calm, organised front-of-house environment.
- Handling patient queries, concerns and complaints professionally and empathetically.
- Building excellent relationships with patients to encourage long-term loyalty and positive patient experiences.
Compliance and Quality Assurance
- Support the Practice in maintaining compliance with CQC, GDC, HTM 01-05 and other regulatory requirements.
- Assist with clinical governance, audits and quality improvement activities.
- Ensure compliance documentation is completed accurately and on time.
- Help maintain emergency medicines, equipment and compliance records.
- Promote safe working practices throughout the practice.
Person Specification Essential
- GDC Registered Dental Nurse.
- Minimum of two years' post-qualification dental nursing experience.
- Previous reception experience within a dental practice.
- Excellent knowledge of dental software and computer systems.
- Outstanding customer service and communication skills.
- Strong organisational and diary management skills.
- Ability to prioritise workload and remain calm under pressure.
- Excellent telephone manner and interpersonal skills.
- Professional appearance and attitude.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
Desirable
- Previous experience as a Lead or Senior Dental Nurse.
- Experience supervising, mentoring or training dental nurses.
- Knowledge of CQC requirements and clinical governance.
- Experience with stock management and clinical audits.
- Experience working in a private or mixed dental practice.
- Additional dental nursing qualifications.
Personal Qualities
We are looking for someone who:
- Leads by example and inspires confidence in others.
- Has exceptional organisational and time-management skills.
- Is passionate about providing outstanding patient care and customer service.
- Is approachable, supportive and enjoys helping colleagues develop.
- Has excellent attention to detail.
- Is proactive, adaptable and solution-focused.
- Communicates confidently with patients, clinicians and colleagues.
- Takes ownership of their responsibilities and enjoys making improvements.
- Remains calm, professional and positive in a busy environment.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- A supportive and friendly team environment.
- Leadership development and career progression opportunities.
- Funded CPD and ongoing professional development.
- Modern, well-equipped practice.
- Uniform provided.
- The opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future success of the practice.
This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious Dental Nurse who enjoys combining excellent clinical care with outstanding customer service and leadership. Whether you are already a Lead Dental Nurse or are ready to take the next step in your career, we will support you in developing your leadership skills and reaching your full potential.
This specification would be suitable for a Mixed NHS/Private Practice and should attract candidates who are not only excellent nurses but also confident leading a team, managing reception, and delivering exceptional patient service.
Pay: From £28,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
