The dental nurse is essential in a well organised and managed dental practice. He or she also assists the dentist in all aspects of patient treatment and plays a vital role in patient care.

The modern dental nurse trains in all aspects of clinical practice and dental health education. This course gives you the skills and practical competence needed to work in the dental surgery. You learn about the day to day running of a dental practice and acquire the qualifications for entry to the Dental Council Register of Dental Nurses.

Is this the right course for me?

Yes, if you are interested in working as part of a dental team or, alternatively, wish to pursue a career as a Dental Hygienist or as an orthodontic therapist (Diploma in Dental Hygiene programme).

You should be calm, friendly and sympathetic, be able to communicate effectively, and be of a cheerful disposition in order to help anxious patients.

Course content

This two-year course is divided into practical and academic (modular) components. All your formal academic teaching and learning experiences, together with your practical clinical experience, is gained at the Dublin Dental School & Hospital.

In second year, you will spend time on external placements in the operating theatre of a general hospital and in a health authority dental clinic. You will also spend time gaining experience in general dental practices throughout the Dublin area.

The programme consists of lectures, tutorials, demonstrations and practical experience. You will be assessed on a continuous basis regarding suitability and application of theory to practice. By the end of the course, you will have developed appropriate skills in patient and team management. You will be integrated will undergraduate dental science students for some elements of the course to ensure effective teamwork throughout the dental profession.