Head Dental Nurse

NHS; Ipswich; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A dental practice in Ipswich is looking for an experienced head dental nurse to lead their nursing team. The role includes providing clinical support, maintaining high standards of patient care, and ensuring compliance with health regulations. Qualified candidates should have a National diploma in Dental Nursing Level 3 and valid GDC registration. This position offers leadership opportunities and a collaborative working environment with a competitive salary.

Benefits

Opportunities for continuing professional development

Competitive salary dependent on experience

Supportive working atmosphere

Qualifications

• National diploma in Dental Nursing Level 3 or equivalent.
• Valid GDC registration.
• Proven experience as a dental nurse, with previous senior or lead responsibilities preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide chairside support to clinicians across a wide range of dental procedures.
• Lead, mentor, and support the dental nursing team.
• Ensure adherence to CQC, GDC, and practice policies.

Skills

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Confidence in clinical standards

Education

National diploma in Dental Nursing Level 3 or equivalent

Job description

Gooseberry Dental in Ipswich is seeking an experienced, organised, and motivated head dental nurse to lead our nursing team and support the smooth day-to-day running of the practice. This is an excellent opportunity for a dental nurse looking to take the next step in their career with added leadership and coordination responsibilities.

As head dental nurse, you will provide high-quality clinical support, uphold exceptional standards of infection control, and act as a role model to the wider nursing team. You will work closely with clinicians, support practice management, and ensure patients receive the highest standard of care.

Main duties of the job

Clinical support and patient care

• Provide chairside support to clinicians across a wide range of dental procedures
• Ensure an exceptional standard of patient care, comfort, and reassurance throughout treatment
• Maintain compliance with all infection control, decontamination, and cross-infection protocols

Team leadership and coordination

• Lead, mentor, and support the dental nursing team, promoting a positive and professional working culture
• Assist in coordinating nursing rotas and ensuring adequate clinical cover
• Take responsibility for induction and ongoing support of trainee dental nurses

Practice and compliance

• Support with clinical governance and ensure adherence to CQC, GDC, and practice policies
• Oversee stock control, ordering, and management of clinical consumables
• Assist with clinical administration, record keeping, and audits
• Contribute proactively to the smooth and efficient running of the practice

About us

Gooseberry Dental is a modern, patient-focused practice dedicated to delivering high-quality dental care in a friendly and professional environment.

We offer:

• A supportive, collaborative, and professional working atmosphere
• Opportunities for continuing professional development and career growth
• A competitive salary, dependent on experience
• Modern, well-equipped surgeries and facilities

Job responsibilities

Ifyou would like to find out more information about this role, please do nothesitate to get in contact with us.

Person Specification

Qualifications

• National diploma in Dental Nursing Level 3 or equivalent.
• Valid GDC registration.

Experience

• Proven experience as a dental nurse, with previous senior or lead responsibilities preferred
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• A reliable, professional, and positive attitude
• Confidence in supporting colleagues and maintaining high clinical standards
• Commitment to delivering outstanding patient care and continuous service improvement

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Gooseberry Dental (formerly Ipswich Dental Care)