Amelia Hodgson, head of dental nursing for Bupa Dental Care, talks about how the work of dental nurses goes far beyond what meets the eye.
On 22 November, we celebrate National Dental Nurses Day – a chance to recognise the invaluable contributions of dental nurses, who are often the unspoken backbone of every dental practice, offering crucial support to patients and the wider dental team.
Supporting and reassuring patients
Dental nurses are known to be a comforting presence for all patients, especially those feeling anxious or nervous about their visit. Many times in my career, I’ve helped distract patients by talking to them about their weekend plans or where they’re heading on holiday, to take their minds off having a treatment that they’re not so excited about.
Our warm and caring presence in the surgery, by simply listening or offering a gentle word, can positively impact a patient’s experience, transforming what could be a nerve-wracking appointment into a much more calming check-up.
Nurses also play a key role in helping patients understand their treatment plans, especially those which are more complex, where patients could otherwise leave feeling overwhelmed by the technicalities. We work closely with the dentist to help bridge this gap by explaining things in a way that’s accessible and comforting, so they feel informed and involved in their care journey.
Supporting clinicians
Many dentists and hygienists say they couldn’t do their jobs effectively or efficiently without the support of a dental nurse. Anecdotally speaking, we’re as much emotional support as physical support, making the day run smoother and making the clinician feel more relaxed, knowing they have an extra pair of experienced hands. We’re also someone they can debrief with and help keep appointments running on time.
Ensuring safety standards
A vital part of our role is maintaining high standards of cleanliness and infection control, ensuring the equipment and the surgery are sterilised and the risk of cross-contamination is minimised. This underpins the health and wellbeing of patients and the team and helps practices run smoothly and safely.
Keeping things running smoothly
Our work extends beyond patient interaction and clinical tasks – we also get involved in the operational side of running a practice, managing patient records, helping coordinate appointments, and working with laboratories and referral sites. These responsibilities may not always be visible to patients, but they are critical to supporting the wider practice team, achieving operational efficiency, and making the patient experience seamless, so clinicians can focus on what matters most – delivering the best patient care.
‘Dentistry is also constantly evolving, with new materials, digital tools and technologies…and no two days are the same, making dental nursing a dynamic, exciting profession that keeps you engaged and always growing.’
Prepared for emergencies
In addition to our day-to-day duties, as dental nurses, we’re trained in first aid and CPR, equipped to respond quickly in emergencies and provide immediate support alongside the treating clinician, should anyone require urgent medical attention.
Mentoring and developing new people
Dental nurses play a huge part in welcoming and supporting new team members, from training apprentice nurses to helping clinicians feel at home when they join a new practice. Without even knowing, we share knowledge, answer questions, and guide new people through the complexities of each individual dental practice. This supports the entire team, creating a welcoming, collaborative environment that benefits everyone.
A career full of purpose and potential
If I’ve not already convinced you, there’s much to be excited about for those considering a career in dental nursing. As a dental nurse with 12 years of experience, I’ve found great satisfaction in knowing that my work has a direct, positive impact on people’s lives. Helping patients feel at ease, providing support whenever or wherever it’s needed and knowing you’re making a difference all contribute to a deep sense of personal purpose.
It has also allowed me to build a diverse set of skills that has supported my personal and professional growth, having recently been appointed to head of dental nursing at Bupa Dental Care. This is an excellent example of how clinical expertise and strong interpersonal skills can help dental nurses develop a blend of valuable and transferable abilities, opening doors to various opportunities within the dental sector and healthcare in general.
My journey is a good example of how career development in dental nursing is extremely promising and varied. There are pathways for further clinical specialisation, as well as opportunities in leadership or support roles, which allow dental nurses to tailor their careers to their passions and strengths.
Dentistry is also constantly evolving, with new materials, digital tools and technologies, and compliance standards providing continual learning opportunities. And no two days are the same, making dental nursing a dynamic, exciting profession that keeps you engaged and always growing.
So, on this National Dental Nurses Day, I’d like to celebrate all the dedicated dental nurses who are central to the success of every practice. Their hard work, compassion, and expertise make a world of difference for patients and the dental team.
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