Dental nurse req for busy local practice. No exp req, would suit school leaver

Having worked in the role of a dental nurse for the past 20 years or so, I have seen many changes, and it's good that things have moved forward in some ways. I have worked in a variety of environments – including hospital, NHS and private practices, specialist referral clinics and the community and am armed with the experience and knowledge to have some insight. Back in the mid-1990s, when I completed my hospital training, I recall many practices advertising in the local paper for dental nursing staff. Many times the advertisement would read: ‘Dental nurse req for busy local practice. No exp req, would suit school leaver.’ How does this make the role appear? Easy? Non-challenging? Anyone could do it? Thankfully, time has moved on and we now need to be registered and be completing CPD. The role of a dental nurse is a demanding one that requires much knowledge to perform well and an understanding of all the many procedures involved. We need radiography skills, an understanding of surgical layouts, the different types of dentistry, what the instruments are and their jobs, cleaning and sterilisation techniques, good interpersonal skills, how to be a team player, up to date insight on materials, first aid, the ability to think on your feet, plus much more. Easy role? Without the dental nurse, the dentist could not work. Hygienists and therapists are also increasingly reliant on dental nurses. It is up to forward-thinking practices to empower dental nursing staff to raise morale and an understanding of their input. Practices can display qualifications in the waiting room or make it a policy to introduce the dental nurse when the patient is in the surgery. Having to be qualified before working or at least being enrolled on a certified course, keeping up with CPD and all the changes that occur, plus keeping abreast of all the latest innovations and technology are key. Though I'm keen to stress that all the values of the role – such as good chairside skills, four-handed techniques and the ability to interact seamlessly are necessary tools as well.