Apprentice Dental Nurse

The Apprentice Dental Nurse will provide clinical support to the dental team in delivering patient care, with a focus on assisting during dental treatment, maintaining infection prevention and control standards, and supporting patients throughout their visit.

The apprentice dental nurse is required to work towards a nationally recognised qualification leading to registration with the General Dental Council (GDC).

The Apprentice Dental Nurse will always work under the supervision of a named GDC registrant, reporting to the Practice Owner and Practice Manager, and is responsible for their own conduct and engagement with their training programme.

Key responsibilities include:

• Provide high-quality dental nursing support to the level of their current competence, under supervision, in line with current legislation, guidance and the scope of a Dental Nurse.
• work towards a nationally recognised qualification leading to GDC registration.
• support the dental team in delivering patient care.
• maintaining effective communication.
• take reasonable care for their own health and safety, and work in a manner that supports safe patient care.
• prepare and maintain the clinical and general environment, including equipment and materials.
• assist the treating clinician during dental procedures in a safe and effective manner, to the level of current competence.
• carry out infection prevention and control procedures to prevent physical, chemical and microbiological contamination.
• ensuring equipment and instruments are decontaminated and sterilised between patients.
• monitor, support, and reassure patients throughout their visit.
• record dental charting and oral tissue assessment carried out by other registrants, and maintain accurate clinical records.
• support the dental team in the event of a medical emergency.
• be a chaperone for patient care.
• support the smooth running of the practice by carrying out operational duties as required, including stock management, equipment checks, and general housekeeping.
• assist with reception duties and perform other clerical duties where required.
• bring to the attention of the Principal or Practice Manager any concerns about aspects of the practice, its performance or the performance of others.
• perform any other tasks as reasonably requested by the Practice Manager.
• attend practice meetings, training sessions, and external training leading to qualification as requested.
• Developing competencies-The Apprentice Dental Nurse will develop and demonstrate competence across all areas of the dental nursing role under the supervision of a named GDC registrant, working towards the standard required for GDC registration.