Dental Nurse Training: Everything You Need to Know.

Dental Nurse Training is a process that every would-be dental nurse must go through before they can begin their career in the field. This process ensures that all dental nurses are properly educated and trained in the latest techniques and procedures.

With changing attitudes toward the profession, dental nurses are now being treated with more respect than ever before - as they should be!

So, what does the process of dental nurse training entail? If you’re thinking of embarking on a career in dental nursing, this blog post is for you. We will explore everything you need to know about dental nurse training, from what qualifications you need to where you can study. 

We will also dispel some common myths about dental nurse training so that you can make the best decision for your future. So, if you’re interested in becoming a dental nurse, read on to find out everything you need to know.

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Who is a dental nurse?

A dental nurse is a professional who helps dentists with various aspects of patient care. Dental nurses typically have an associate’s degree or certificate in dental nursing, and they must be licensed in the state where they practice.

Dental nurses help patients feel comfortable during dental procedures, and they also assist dentists by sterilizing instruments, setting up equipment, and keeping the work area clean. In some states, dental nurses may administer local anesthesia or take x-rays.

The Different Types of Dental Nursing

There are three different types of dental nursing: certified dental assistants (CDAs), Registered Dental Nurses (RDNs), and Advanced Practice Dental Nurses (APDNs).

CDAs are dental assistants who have completed an accredited dental assisting program and have passed the national examination. 

RDNs are registered nurses who have completed an accredited dental nursing program and have passed the national examination. 

APDNs are advanced practice nurses who have completed an accredited postgraduate dental nurse training program.

Each type of dental nurse has different skills and knowledge. CDAs are typically responsible for chairside assistance, patient care, and administrative tasks. RDNs provide direct patient care, including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning. APDNs provide direct patient care and may also be involved in research, education, or administration.

What are the roles of a dental nurse?

A dental nurse plays an important role in the member of a dental team. Most of their roles include;

1. Assisting in the aspect of patient care

2. Providing direct assistance to the dentist during procedures.

3. Taking X-rays, charting teeth, and sterilizing instruments.

Dental nurses must be able to work well under pressure and have excellent communication skills. They must be able to understand and follow instructions from the dentist and provide patients with information about their treatment options.

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What Training is Required to Become a Qualified Dental Nurse?

Becoming a dental nurse requires completing an accredited dental nursing programme. This is typically a two-year process that leads to a nationally recognized qualification.

During the programme, students will learn about all aspects of dentistry, from oral anatomy and physiology, to infection control and radiology. They will also gain clinical experience in both hospital and community settings.

Upon completion of the programme, students will need to pass an exam administered by the General Dental Council (GDC) which is the body that registers dental nurses, to earn their license. Once registered, they will be eligible to practise in any number of settings, from private practices to public health clinics.

What qualifications and skills do you need to be a dental nurse?

There is no prior experience or formal qualifications of dentistry required to study a dental nurse programme, but most employers will require you to have at least a basic level of education and be able to read, write, and understand English.

However, if you are interested in applying, you should be proficient in some of the following skills which are listed below;

- You must be at ease working with people of all ages.

- You must be computer literate.

- Ability to work well under duress.

- Ability to work well in a group.

- Outstanding communication abilities.

- Organization and a methodical work approach.

- Multitasking ability.

How long does dental nurse training take?

Dental nurse training takes between one and two years to complete. The length of time it takes to train depends on the specific program you choose and your prior experience. If you have no prior experience working in a dental office, you can expect to spend closer to two years completing your training. During your training, you'll learn all the necessary skills to work as a dental nurse, including how to sterilize equipment, how to take X-rays, and how to assist the dentist during procedures. You'll also learn about patient care and will have the opportunity to shadow experienced dental nurses.

What does a dental nurse do on a day to day basis?

A dental nurse is responsible for many of the administrative tasks in a dental office. They may greet patients, schedule appointments, answer phones, and process insurance forms. Dental nurses also prepare patients for their procedures by taking X-rays and charting their teeth. They assist the dentist during procedures by handing them instruments and providing suction. After the procedure, they may instruct patients on how to care for their teeth and take postoperative X-rays.

What is the average salary for a dental nurse?

The average salary for a dental nurse in the United Kingdom is £21,692 per year. Dental nurses in London earn an average of £25,816 per year, while those in Wales earn £20,400 per year. The highest-paid dental nurses in the UK work in the private sector, where they can earn up to £34,000 per year

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What further training is available for dental nurses?

The great thing about becoming a dental nurse is that you can advance your career by choosing from a variety of different career paths. This qualification will allow for further study and training in the following certificates:

- Certificate in Dental Radiography

- Certificate in Oral Health Education

- Certificate in Dental Hygiene / Dental Therapy

- Certificate in Dental Sedation Nursing

- Certificate in Special Care Nursing

- Certificate in Orthodontic Nursing

Bottom Line

Dental nurse training is a great way to get started in the dental field. With the right training, you can become a certified dental nurse and help patients in need. We hope that this article has helped you understand everything you need to know about dental nurse training. If you're interested in becoming a dental nurse, be sure to check out various programs today.