At the age of eighteen I was ready to find my first full-time job, but had absolutely no idea what I wanted to do. I scrolled through job listings every day, and before long I started to see vacancies for trainee dental nurses. I had a vague idea of what a dental nurse did and the thought of gaining a qualification whilst working really appealed to me.

This article aims to give you an overview of my career so far and an idea of what to expect on various courses that are available to dental nurses should they want to further their own careers.

Firstly, I should tell you a little about myself. I began my career in dentistry in March 2006 in a small practice with just one dentist and hygienist. Since then a lot has changed!

My journey started in 2006. Like many other 19-year-olds, I was unsure of which career path to take, so I had handed my CV into local businesses for reception work whilst I figured things out! During my interview for a position as a receptionist in a dental practice, I was asked why I wanted to be a dental nurse. 'A dental nurse - what's that?' I asked. Feeling slightly confused and bemused, I decided to accept the position. 

Imagine being referred to as irreplaceable - knowing that your dentist sees you as a genuine asset. This could be a reality. Every dental nurse starts at the bottom of their career ladder with very little or no knowledge about the dental industry.

My typical day as an orthodontic nurse is full of variety. From bonding treatments to space closure, every case is different because each patient requires a unique prescription.

Today’s list included a de-bond for a Class III surgical patient, which is always interesting.