Dental Nursing Level 3 Apprenticeship
What are the aims of this course?
The dental nurse works within the dental team to provide oral health care for a patient. As a dental nurse, you will come into close contact with patients of all ages who may be anxious and in need of support and reassurance. Good communication and a friendly manner are essential. You are expected to assist the dentist in all aspects of patient care. This will range from sterilising and preparing instruments, mixing materials and ensuring the patient is comfortable. You may also assist the dentist with various procedures such as minor oral surgery and extractions. During your training period, you gain clinical experience in all departments of the Dental Institute, including Restorative, Orthodontics, Minor Oral Surgery, Child Dental Health and Acute Dental Care. You will be assessed in the clinical environment throughout your training to ensure you are competent in all aspects of your role as a Dental Nurse.
What are the areas covered by this course?
The Apprenticeship covers the following:
- First Aid Essentials
- Reducing risks to health and safety in the dental setting
- The role and responsibilities of a dental nurse
- Prepare and maintain environment, instruments and equipment for clinical dental procedures
- Provide chair side support for assessment of patients oral health
- Contribute to the production of dental images
- Provide chair side support for the prevention and control of periodontal disease and caries and the restoration of cavities
- Provide chair side support for the provision of fixed and removable prostheses
- Provide chair side support for non-surgical endodontic treatment
- Provide chair side support for the extraction of teeth and minor oral surgery
- Provide information and support to patients on the protection of their oral health
- Assessment of oral health and treatment planning
- Dental radiography
- Management of oral health disease and dental procedures
- Principles of infection control in the dental environment
What qualifications do I need to do this course?
Applicants should be 16 years or over. Ideally the candidates would have good levels of literacy and numeracy.
How is the course assessed?
Individuals are assessed in the workplace by a qualified assessor and will be required to compile a portfolio of evidence over the duration of the qualification and sit an externally marked examination.
What qualification will I be awarded if I successfully complete the course?
At the end of the programme apprentices will have achieved:
- Level 3 Diploma In Dental Nursing (QCF)
- Functional skills in Maths, English
- Employee Rights and Responsibilities
- Personal Learning and Thinking Skills
What will I be able to go on to do after I've completed this course?
Once you have received the required level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing you will be required to register with the GDC (General Dental Council). This is continuous throughout your career as a Dental Nurse and CPD (Continuous Professional Development) which includes completing verifiable and non-verifiable CPD.
What are the career opportunities?
Qualifying as a Dental Nurse is only potentially the first step in a long and successful career. There are many options for Dental Nurses to take these days and being a Dental Nurse has never been so exciting. As a qualified dental nurse you can expand your career prospects by progressing into roles such as dental nurse team manager, team leader, or dental practice manager. You could also study and work towards a number of specialist areas, including:
- Oral Health Education
- Dental Sedation Nursing
- Dental Anaesthetic Nursing
- Special Care Dental Nursing
- Orthodontic Nursing