Dental Nurse Courses in the UK: Qualifications, Costs and Online Study Explained
If you're thinking about becoming a dental nurse, choosing the right course is one of the first big decisions you'll need to make.
There are different routes into dental nursing in the UK, and course fees, study methods and qualification requirements can vary between providers. It is therefore important to understand exactly what you are signing up for before enrolling.
In this guide, we'll explain what to consider when choosing a dental nurse course, how online dental nurse training works, the costs to consider and what you should check before choosing a training provider.
What qualification do you need to become a dental nurse?
To work as a qualified dental nurse in the UK, you must hold a qualification recognised by the General Dental Council (GDC) and meet the requirements for GDC registration.
There are different recognised routes into dental nursing, including regulated dental nursing qualifications delivered through approved training providers and dental nursing apprenticeships.
At Infills Academy, we offer the NEBDN Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing (RQF), which combines the knowledge required for dental nursing with practical experience gained while working in a dental practice.
When comparing dental nurse courses, it is important to check that the qualification you are considering is recognised by the GDC and will allow you to apply for registration once you have successfully completed all required elements.
Can you study dental nursing online?
Yes. The knowledge and theory elements of dental nurse training can be delivered online, making this an attractive option for learners who need to fit their studies around work, family and other commitments.
However, becoming a dental nurse cannot be completed entirely from home.
Dental nursing is a practical clinical profession, so trainee dental nurses also need to develop and demonstrate their skills within an appropriate dental practice.
With an online training provider such as Infills Academy, learners can complete their academic studies remotely while gaining practical experience in the workplace.
Online learning can provide greater flexibility than attending regular classroom sessions, while still allowing learners to develop the clinical knowledge, skills and experience required for their qualification.
Do you need to work in a dental practice while studying?
For workplace-based dental nursing qualifications, you will need access to an appropriate dental practice so that you can develop your practical skills and complete the required workplace evidence.
This is an important point to check before enrolling on a dental nurse course.
If you are not currently employed as a trainee dental nurse, you may need to secure a suitable position before beginning your qualification. Always check the entry requirements with your chosen training provider before paying any course fees.
How long does it take to become a dental nurse?
The amount of time needed to qualify as a dental nurse can vary depending on the qualification, training provider and individual learner.
Dental nursing qualifications involve much more than simply completing online coursework. Learners need time to develop their theoretical knowledge, gain clinical experience and demonstrate competence in practice.
For this reason, it is worth looking beyond promises of qualifying as quickly as possible when comparing providers. A good training programme should give you sufficient time to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to work safely and effectively as a dental nurse.
If you'd like to understand the training journey in more detail, read our guide to How Long Does It Take to Become a Dental Nurse?
How much does a dental nurse course cost?
The cost of a dental nurse course can vary considerably between training providers, depending on the qualification, method of study and what is included within the advertised fee.
Rather than comparing the headline course price alone, check exactly what is included and whether there are additional costs.
Depending on the provider and qualification, these may include:
- Course tuition
- Registration fees
- Assessments or examinations
- Resits
- Deferrals or extensions
- Learning resources
- Additional support
- GDC registration following qualification
A course that initially appears cheaper may not necessarily represent better value once additional fees are taken into account.
At Infills Academy, we aim to make our fees clear from the outset, including any separate examination costs and the payment options available.
View our current course fees and payment options for the latest information.
What should you look for when choosing a dental nurse course?
Cost is naturally an important consideration, but it shouldn't be the only factor when deciding where to study.
Before enrolling, consider:
- Whether the qualification is recognised for GDC registration
- How the course is delivered
- What tutor and assessor support is available
- Whether the course structure can realistically fit around your work and personal commitments
- What is included within the advertised course fee
- Whether there are additional examination or assessment fees
- How practical workplace evidence is completed
- Reviews and experiences from previous learners
- What happens if you fall behind or need additional support
Support can be particularly important when studying online.
Flexible learning shouldn't mean being left to complete your qualification alone. Look at how you will be able to contact your tutors and assessors, how feedback is provided and what support is available if you are struggling with part of the course.
What is it like studying dental nursing with Infills Academy?
Infills Academy provides online dental nurse training to learners across the UK.
Our learners complete the academic elements of their qualification online while developing their practical skills and experience within a dental practice.
We place a strong emphasis on providing accessible support throughout the qualification. Learners have contact with tutors and assessors who can provide guidance, feedback and additional help when needed.
Our team also remains closely connected to clinical dentistry, giving us an understanding of the realities of working in practice while studying towards a dental nursing qualification.
We know that our learners have lives outside their course, so our approach is designed to provide flexibility while still giving learners the structure and support they need to progress.
Frequently asked questions about dental nurse courses
Can I become a dental nurse through an online course?
The academic elements of dental nurse training can be delivered online, but you will still need appropriate clinical experience in a dental practice to complete the practical requirements of a recognised dental nursing qualification.
Be wary of any course that suggests you can become a fully qualified dental nurse entirely from home without gaining the necessary clinical experience.
Can I study dental nursing while working full-time?
Many trainee dental nurses work while completing their qualification. In fact, gaining experience in practice forms an important part of workplace-based dental nurse training.
Online study can make balancing work and study more manageable because the academic elements of the qualification can be completed more flexibly than with regular classroom attendance.
Do I need dental nursing experience before starting a course?
Entry requirements can vary between qualifications and training providers.
For workplace-based dental nursing training, you will need access to a suitable dental practice in order to gain clinical experience and complete the practical requirements of your qualification.
Always check the individual provider's entry requirements before enrolling.
Is the cheapest dental nurse course the best option?
Not necessarily.
Look beyond the advertised price and compare the qualification, support provided, course structure, examination or assessment costs and any additional charges.
The quality and availability of tutor and assessor support should also be considered, particularly if you choose to study online.
What happens after I complete my dental nurse qualification?
Once you have successfully completed a GDC-recognised dental nursing qualification and met the necessary requirements, you can apply for registration with the General Dental Council.
Once registered, you can work as a qualified dental nurse and may later choose to undertake further training or develop your career in areas such as radiography, oral health education, sedation, orthodontics, practice management, assessing or other areas of dentistry.
You can read more in our guide to What Happens After Passing Your NEBDN Exams?
Ready to start your dental nursing qualification?
Choosing a dental nurse course is an important decision, so take time to compare your options and find a qualification and training provider that suits both your career goals and your circumstances.
Infills Academy offers the NEBDN Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing (RQF) through flexible online learning, with tutor and assessor support throughout your qualification.
If you're ready to take the next step, you can:
View the NEBDN Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing
View our current course fees and payment options
Or, if you're unsure whether the course is right for you, contact the Infills Academy team and we'll be happy to answer your questions.