Dental nurse - overview

What does a dental nurse do?

As a dental nurse, you’ll be supporting the dentist and rest of the dental surgery to provide care for patients. You might work for the NHS or a private practice, or for a healthcare centre in the local community.

Using your excellent team working skills and genuine care for patients, you’ll help the dentist during appointments and look after patients. You’ll also have responsibility for keeping things organised and sterile. Like many careers in healthcare, it can be busy but rewarding, especially if you enjoy working with people.

What will your days involve?

Daily tasks might include:

• Working with the dentist to make sure the surgery is ready for patients
• Removing water and saliva from the patient’s mouth
• Helping the dentist in appointments, for example by passing them dental instruments
• Supporting reception
• Making sure supplies are well stocked and organised
• Keeping the surgery tidy
• Making sure the surgery and equipment are kept sterile
• Reassuring anxious patients
• Updating patient records after appointments

FAQs

How much can you earn as a dental nurse?

The average salary for a dental nurse in the UK is £16,640.

Does a dental nurse role involve travel in the UK or overseas?

You won’t need to travel for this job, as dental nurses are usually based in one surgery.

Can you work from home as a dental nurse?

As your work will be to support other dental staff and patients, you won’t be able to work from home.