Trainee Dental Nurse
Job Summary
We are seeking a dedicated, compassionate and enthusiastic Trainee Dental Nurse to join our friendly dental practice.
The successful candidate will work alongside our experienced dental team, supporting dentists and other clinical staff while developing the knowledge, skills and experience required to become a qualified Dental Nurse.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is passionate about healthcare, enjoys working with people and is keen to develop a career within dentistry.
We are looking for someone who is reliable, hardworking, willing to learn and committed to completing their dental nursing training.
This is a full-time position of 37.5 hours per week.
About the Practice
We are a busy 7-surgery dental practice providing both NHS and private dental care.
Our friendly clinical team currently consists of:
- 6 Dentists
- 1 Dental Therapist / Hygienist
- A dedicated team of qualified and trainee Dental Nurses
- A supportive Reception and administrative team
As a busy NHS and private practice, we offer a varied and interesting working environment, providing the opportunity to gain experience across a wide range of dental treatments and procedures.
You will work alongside experienced clinicians and Dental Nurses who will support you throughout your training and development.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist dentists and the Dental Therapist / Hygienist during a variety of dental procedures.
- Ensure patients are comfortable, supported and well cared for throughout their visit.
- Prepare surgeries and treatment rooms before and after patient appointments.
- Learn and follow correct procedures for the decontamination and sterilisation of instruments.
- Assist with preparing clinical equipment and materials for treatment.
- Support clinicians during treatments while developing your dental nursing skills.
- Provide patients with a friendly, caring and professional experience.
- Assist with maintaining accurate and confidential patient records.
- Follow practice policies and procedures at all times.
- Maintain a clean, organised and professional clinical environment.
- Follow infection prevention and control procedures and health and safety requirements.
- Assist with surgery and equipment checks as required.
- Work effectively alongside dentists, Dental Nurses, reception staff and the wider practice team.
- Attend required training, study sessions and educational activities as part of your dental nursing qualification.
- Complete coursework, examinations and other requirements associated with your training programme.
- Take responsibility for progressing with your training and development.
- Assist with general practice duties when required.
- You may be required to provide dental nursing cover at our other practices when needed, depending on business and staffing requirements.
- Maintain a professional, friendly and approachable manner with patients and colleagues at all times.
Essential Skills and Requirements
- Genuine interest in pursuing a career in dental nursing.
- Willingness to undertake and complete a recognised dental nursing qualification.
- Good written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Good IT skills and willingness to learn computerised patient record systems.
- Excellent organisational skills and the ability to prioritise and multitask.
- Ability to work calmly and professionally in a busy clinical environment.
- Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
- A caring, friendly and compassionate approach towards patients.
- Reliable, punctual and hardworking.
- Positive attitude and willingness to learn.
- Professional attitude and conduct at all times.
- Commitment to maintaining patient confidentiality and high standards of infection prevention and control.
- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
- Flexibility to work across our practices when required.
Desirable
- Previous experience working in a dental, healthcare, customer service or patient-facing environment.
- Previous experience within a dental practice.
- Full UK driving licence – desirable but not essential.
Training Options
We offer two routes for completing your Dental Nursing qualification, allowing you to choose the option that best suits your circumstances.
Government-Funded Dental Nursing Apprenticeship
You may have the opportunity to complete a government-funded Dental Nursing apprenticeship, which takes approximately 18 months to complete.
As part of the apprenticeship, you will receive 4 hours of dedicated study time each week during your working hours to support your coursework, learning and development.
You will gain valuable hands-on experience within our busy NHS and private dental practice while working towards your dental nursing qualification.
Private Dental Nursing Course
Alternatively, you may choose to complete a private Dental Nursing course, which can potentially be completed within approximately 1 year, depending on the course provider and your progress.
Both routes provide the opportunity to gain the knowledge, practical skills and experience required to progress towards becoming a Qualified Dental Nurse.
We will discuss the available training options with the successful candidate and support you throughout your training and development.
Working Hours
Full-time: 37.5 hours per week
Monday – Thursday:
8:45am – 5:15pm
1-hour unpaid lunch break
Friday:
7:45am – 4:15pm
1-hour unpaid lunch break
Holiday Entitlement
28 days' annual leave per year, including bank holidays.
Unpaid Leave
Where staffing levels allow and the practice is overstaffed, there may be an opportunity for employees to request unpaid leave.
Any unpaid leave will be subject to practice requirements and approval and cannot be guaranteed.
What We Are Looking For
We are looking for a reliable, caring, hardworking and enthusiastic Trainee Dental Nurse who is genuinely interested in developing a career within dentistry.
You should enjoy working with people, have good communication skills and be able to work effectively as part of a busy team.
A positive attitude, willingness to learn, good timekeeping and commitment to your training are essential.
You will be working in a busy environment, so the ability to remain organised, calm and professional is important.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a supportive 7-surgery NHS and private dental practice, gain valuable experience and develop the skills needed to become a qualified Dental Nurse.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Apprenticeship
Pay: £10.00-£14.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Employee discount
Work Location: In person
