Dental Nurse Apprenticeship

(Portmouth) You’ll work closely with qualified dental professionals, gaining hands-on experience across all areas of dental nursing. From day one, you’ll be encouraged to build confidence, develop new skills, and work towards becoming a fully qualified Dental Nurse in a professional and welcoming private practice environment. This is a patient-facing role where enthusiasm, reliability, and a positive attitude are just as important as technical skills. If you enjoy helping others and want a career where no two days are the same, this could be the perfect starting point. 
 
Key Responsibilities:

As a Trainee Dental Nurse, you will: 

Assist dentists and clinicians during a range of dental treatments and procedures  Ensure patients feel comfortable, informed, and reassured throughout their visit  Prepare treatment rooms and ensure all equipment and materials are ready for use  Clean, sterilise, and maintain instruments in line with infection control standards  Follow health, safety, and confidentiality policies at all times  Support patients with pre and post treatment guidance  Accurately update patient records using computer-based systems  Help manage appointment flow and support the smooth running of the practice  Assist with basic administrative duties as required 

What We’re Looking For:

We believe the right attitude and mindset are key. You don’t need dental experience; we’re looking for someone who: 

Has a positive, can-do approach and is eager to learn  Is genuinely interested in patient care and personal development  Is reliable, punctual, and takes pride in being professional  Enjoys working as part of a team and supporting others  Communicates clearly and confidently with both patients and colleagues  Can stay organised and manage multiple tasks in a busy environment  Has basic IT skills and is comfortable learning new systems 

What We Offer

Full training and support towards a recognised Dental Nurse qualification  On-the-job learning alongside experienced dental professionals  A friendly, supportive, and professional team environment  A great opportunity to build long-term career progression within dentistry  Valuable experience in a high-quality private practice setting 

Once you successfully complete your Dental Nurse Apprenticeship and become a qualified Dental Nurse, there are many exciting career pathways available within dentistry. 

Depending on your interests, you could progress into areas such as: 

Specialist dental nursing, including orthodontics, implants, sedation, or oral surgery  Dental Radiography with further training  Practice-based roles such as lead nurse or treatment coordinator  Further education in dental hygiene, dental therapy, or other healthcare roles 

Training:

Dental Nurse (Integrated) Level 3.



Training Outcome:

Advancing Within Dental Nursing:

Lead Dental Nurse: Take on more responsibilities by managing other dental nurses and overseeing practice operations Practice Manager: Move into a management role, handling the day-to-day running of the dental practice

Specialisation Opportunities:

Orthodontic Nursing: Assist in orthodontic treatments, gaining expertise in appliances and aligners

Moving Into Clinical Roles:

Dental Hygienist or Therapist: With further qualifications, progress into roles focused on providing oral hygiene treatments or minor dental procedures Extended Duties Dental Nurse: Gain additional skills such as fluoride application, impression taking, or assisting in sedation procedures

Transition to Education or Research:

Trainer or Assessor: Use your experience to teach and assess trainee dental nurses Related Healthcare Careers Specialist Healthcare Settings: Work in maxillofacial units, hospitals, or with oral surgeons Broader Healthcare Roles: Transition into other areas of healthcare, leveraging transferable skills

Extended Skills:

Dental Radiography: Train to take radiographs, an essential skill in modern dental practices Oral Health Promotion: Work with patients and communities to educate on oral hygiene and preventative care

Employer Description:
Our reputation is built on our commitment to prompt professional, personal service and attention to detail, which is reflected in the services we offer and the time we take to get to know our clientele and how to best service their needs.

Working Hours :
Monday to Friday 8.30am - 6pm

Skills:
Attention to detail,Communication skills,Customer care skills,Initiative,Non judgemental,Organisation skills,Patience,Team working


  • Location:
  • Type: Permanent
  • Recruiter: I & F LIMITED
  • Posted: 14-Jul-2026
  • Posted on: findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk