Dental Nurse Apprenticeship

Dental Limited; Winscombe; On-site; GBP 12,000; Full time

Job summary

A dental practice is offering a 12-month apprenticeship in dental nursing. You will assist dentists, manage reception duties, and support patient experience. Ideal for those with GCSEs in English and Maths, this role provides opportunities for career progression. Salary starts at £11,778, with hours typically Monday to Friday, including possible evenings and weekends.

Responsibilities

• Assist dentists and provide chair-side support during treatments.
• Sterilise and prepare equipment for dental procedures.
• Manage reception duties including answering phones, greeting patients, booking appointments.
• Record and update patient histories and dental charting.
• Implement infection control and decontamination procedures.
• Support patients through effective communication and behavioural techniques.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Organisational skills

Customer-care skills

Problem-solving skills

Administrative skills

Teamwork skills

Non-judgemental attitude

Patience

Education

GCSE in English (grade 4)

GCSE in Maths (grade 4)

Job description

The apprenticeship in dental nursing is a 12‑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 and preparing equipment, reception duties, and supporting patient experience.

Responsibilities

• Assist dentists and provide chair‑side support during treatments.
• Sterilise and prepare equipment for dental procedures.
• Manage reception duties including answering phones, greeting patients, booking appointments, handling payments, and maintaining patient records.
• Record and update patient histories, dental charting, and oral health assessments.
• Manage and replenish clinical supplies and equipment.
• Assist with radiographic procedures, processing and managing images.
• Implement infection control and decontamination procedures according to current guidelines.
• Support patients through effective communication and behavioural techniques; manage patient anxiety.
• Provide preventive advice and education to patients and carers.
• Identify and explain risks within the clinical environment, managing medical emergencies when required.
• Contribute to special investigations and diagnostic procedures.
• Obtain valid consent from patients, respecting legal requirements.
• Prepare, mix and handle dental materials.
• Assist in orthodontic assessments and related procedures.
• Collaborate with the dental team, maintain professional development, and lead, manage or delegate tasks according to scope of practice.
• Ensure patient records are contemporaneous, complete and accurate, complying with legal and best‑practice standards.
• Maintain a supportive environment promoting safety and wellbeing for patients and the dental team.
• Communicate professionally with patients, colleagues and other health professionals.
• Act with integrity, accountability, and respect for patient and colleague rights.
• Identify relevant and appropriate dental, oral, craniofacial, and general anatomy, recognising diversity of anatomy across the patient population.
• Evaluate the health risks of prescribed, non‑prescribed and recreational drug use on oral and general health.
• Evaluate the scientific principles underpinning the use of materials and biomaterials, their limitations and selection.
• Identify signs of abuse, neglect or emotional trauma; explain local and national systems that safeguard the welfare of children and adults.

Qualifications & Skills

• GCSE in English (grade 4) and Maths (grade 4).
• Strong communication, organisational, customer‑care, problem‑solving, administrative, teamwork, and non‑judgemental skills.
• Patience and patient‑care orientation.
• First‑year salary £11,778, with potential increase dependent on age and experience.
• Opportunity to progress to team manager, team leader, dental therapist, hygienist, or orthodontic therapist roles.

Hours: Standard shift is Monday to Friday, with possible evening and weekend work. Duration: 1 year, starting Monday 22 December 2025.