How to find trainee dental nurse position (31 yr old career changer)

Awesome progress!

Who did you train with?

UPDATE - 1 year, 9 months after my original post I've now just qualified as a dental nurse!

After posting, I got my first Hep B vaccination, bought a copy of Levisons, and researched dental practices in my area. I emailed my CV/Covering letter to about 10 of them speculatively explaining that I had no experience, but bags of enthusiasm, and got 3 interviews out of it!

I found being that bit older with more life/varied work experience an added benefit for employers.

During my training I gained experience in preparing for and assisting clinicians with dental health checks, restorations, prosthodontics, orthodontics, endodontic and hygiene treatment. More recently I have begun setting up for and assisting with dental implant surgery, bone grafts, soft tissue grafts, PRF membranes, and laser periodontal treatment.

For me, changing my career and retraining as a dental nurse was absolutely the right thing - I enjoy my job and look forward to specialising as an implant nurse. Their are different routes to take in Dental Nursing, depending on what you enjoy - so if you're seriously thinking about it, give it a go!

Thank you so much. Your reply is very helpful and I really appreciate it.

Good IT skills and fast/accurate typing when taking dictation makes you an attractive candidate. You need to be kind and reassuring in your manner, meticulous when cleaning/tidying and robust in stressful situations (it's not about you, it's about the patient). Emphasise that you are strong, reliable and hardworking. 31 is an ideal age ... the average school-leaver will take fright when they face difficulties.

Nurses with the National Diploma in Dental Nursing from one of the dental hospitals are the most sought after. Applications open Mar-July for a September start, hopefully this will be the same in 2021. Similar to an apprenticeship, you are paid as you learn.

You could buy a Levison's textbook and learn your anatomy, physiology and charting. The terminology seems difficult at first so it's good to get a head start. Having your Hep B immunisations is an advantage. (If your GP practice is reluctant inform them you are shortly starting work as a dental nurse and need it in case of sharps injuries. They don't need to know that you don't yet have an employer). Having a CPR certificate is an advantage. It is an advantage if in your existing job you are: aware of GDPR rules, named first-aider, named fire-warden or in charge of the COSHH folder (usually found in the cleaner's cupboard). Perhaps enquire locally for receptionist vacancies: as you wish to become a dental nurse they will be more inclined to devote the time into training you on their software. If they use Software of Excellence the Youtube EXACT Knowledge Hub is very useful.

Good luck!

Hello,

I am 31 years old and currently work as an administrator in the charity sector, however I would like change my career and retrain as a Dental Nurse.

I would really appreciate any advice anyone has about how to go about this?

I have applied for a couple trainee dental nurse roles, but haven't had any success so far. I imagine it's because I'm older than most people applying, and I don't have any experience.

Should I try and get some work experience? Should I just wait for advertised positions or enquire at practices in my area if they have any future positions?

What would make me an attractive candidate?

Any advice is so appreciated. Thank you : )