Dental Nurse Level 3 Apprenticeship

Entry requirements

• It is desirable that you have English and maths at grade C/4 or above or Level 2 Functional/Key Skills, although this is not essential as Level 2 Functional Skills can be delivered as part of the apprenticeship programme

•  It is essential that you complete all vaccinations for Hepatitis B.

• You will need to find an employer to employ you as an apprentice.

You will achieve

• Dental Nursing Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship. (Standard).

Course overview

The apprenticeship is ideal for those pursuing a career as a Dental Nurse. It involves providing chair-side support to the dental team, including dentists, hygienists, and technicians, across various clinical environments. The programme covers all aspects of a Dental Nurse’s responsibilities and duties, leading to a qualification that enables registration with the General Dental Council (GDC) for professional practice.

As part of the apprenticeship, you will will:

• Study dental, oral anatomy, and physiology.

• Learn respiratory, circulatory systems, and normal structures.

• Focus on health promotion and disease prevention.

• Understand health factors and infectious disease prevention.

• Explore infection control and decontamination.

• Learn about the dental team and GDC guidelines.

• Develop clinical skills for preparing and maintaining the clinical environment.

• Prepare records, equipment, and resources, including dental radiography.

• Work safely and efficiently, perform audits, and maintain equipment records.

• Manage decontamination and infection control per guidelines.

• Provide chair-side support during clinical procedures.

• Prepare, mix, and handle dental materials correctly.

• Record dental charting and oral tissue assessments.

How will be i assessed?

Your assessor will make appointments for observation visits in the workplace. You will also participate in professional discussion and your employer should provide witness statements to the college assessor.

What equipment will I need?

• You will complete some written work but will also need access to a computer and the internet.

What can I do next?

Progression into employment as a Dental Nurse or a Level 4 Dental Nurse Management qualification. On completion of this apprenticeship the apprentice can register with the General Dental Council as a qualified Dental Nurse.