Dental Nurse Practice

Course overview: This course is ideal if you are looking to pursue a career in dental nursing. You study the foundations of dental care and learn and develop practical skills specific to your profession. The course is perfect if you want to gain an academic qualification while providing support to the dental team and reassurance to patients in our student dental facility and on dental practice placement.

The role of a dental nurse includes: providing reassurance and support to patients, preparing and maintaining the clinical environment, providing a high standard of cross-infection control, assisting with taking and processing dental radiographs, preparing instruments, materials, medicaments and equipment, recording assessments spoken by the dental team, assisting the dental team throughout all aspects of dentistry.

As with all healthcare professionals the public place a high level of expectation and trust in their dental nurse. So to work in this sector it is essential that you are able to demonstrate the core values embedded within the NHS Constitution: working together for patients, respect and dignity, commitment to quality of care, compassion, improving lives, everyone counts.

Throughout the course, as part of the placement experience, you may be required to participate in a shift pattern rota or work weekends. Please note 100% attendance is expected during this programme.

On successful completion of the course, you will be eligible to register with the General Dental Council as a dental nurse.

After the course: Opportunities are available for employment within NHS and private dental practices, hospitals and in the community. Once qualified you can work in the UK and overseas as a dental nurse. Successful completion gives you the opportunity to further your career if you wish, or progress to study BSc (Hons) Dental Hygiene, or various other career opportunities.

Choosing Teesside University means joining a modern, ambitious university that puts students first. Named Modern University of the Year 2026 (Daily Mail University Guide 2026) and recognised for its outstanding student experience, Teesside combines award-winning teaching with the support you need to succeed.

Based in Middlesbrough, the university has invested millions into creating a vibrant campus packed with industry-standard facilities, study spaces and social hubs. You'll also have access to Adobe Creative Campus tools, helping you build valuable digital skills alongside your degree.

From day one, you'll be part of a welcoming student community with excellent support services, societies, sports clubs and opportunities to boost your career prospects. If you're looking for a university that helps you achieve more and make the most of student life, Teesside could be the perfect fit.