One can train to become a dental nurse in the UK by two methods. The first option of training for dental nurses is to train on the job as a trainee dental nurse with an NHS organisation or a private dental practice and the second option is to take a full-time college course in dental nursing. With both options, the candidate must study towards a qualification recognised by the General Dental Council, and register with the same body after completing the training. The courses approved by GDC for dental nurses include the following:
- National Diploma in Dental Nursing
- Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing
- Foundation Degree in Dental Nursing
- Certificate of Higher Education in Dental Nursing
Training for dental nurses incorporates both theory and practical works and can be done either on a part-time or a full-time basis. Most of the NHS dental nurse training programs allow for such flexibilities to make it as convenient as possible for a majority of the candidates.
For the candidates who opt for a full-time course, you will be expected to do placement work in a recommended setting, which can be an NHS organisation or a private dental practice. The training for this route normally takes between 12 and 18 months.
Upon qualifying and registering as a dental nurse, there is still need to keep your knowledge and skills updated. The British Association of Dental Nurses (BADN) usually organise a variety of workshop events and seminars where they offer different post-qualification courses for dental nurses, some of which include:
- Oral health education
- Special care dental nursing
- Medical emergencies
- Dental sedation nursing
- Orthodontic nursing
It is also important to have in mind that for you to maintain your registration, you must do a minimum of 150 hours of continued professional development for a period of five years.
Note: We at A-Z Training Centre has regular dental nurse training going on. Please check this link https://a-ztraining.co.uk/courses/ for upcoming training and admissions.
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