DENTAL NURSING Level 3 National Diploma

Level 3
Further Education
Newry Campus
NEBDN

Overview

The Dental Nursing Level 3 National Diploma is under review by the awarding body (NEBDN) and is subject to content changes before September 2025.

The Dental Nursing Level 3 National Diploma is designed for individuals aspiring to become professional dental nurses. This part-time course offers flexibility for those who wish to pursue a career in dental nursing while working in a dental practice at the same time.

Throughout the programme, students will acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to provide high-quality support to dental practitioners and deliver exceptional patient care. They will learn about dental anatomy, oral health, and common dental procedures, as well as infection control, radiography, and medical emergencies within a dental setting.

The course covers a wide range of topics, including chairside assistance, patient management, dental materials, and oral health promotion. Students will also gain an understanding of legal and ethical considerations, professionalism, and effective communication skills necessary for working in a dental practice.

Please Note: Blended e-portfolio starts at 3pm. Class starts at 6pm.

Applicants must have attained GCSE English and Maths and at least one Science subject at grade C or above. These certificates must be presented at the time of enrolment with signed confirmation and a NEBDN Service Level Agreement from your employer.
Applicants must also be working within a general dental practice throughout the duration of the course. It is preferable that applicants have been employed for at least 6 months.

Modules

Health and safety in the workplace
Emergencies in the dental surgery
Legal and ethical issues in the provision of dental care
Anatomical structures and systems relative to dental treatment
Oral disease and pathology
Patient care and management
Assessing patients’ oral health needs and treatment planning
Oral health promotion and preventative dentistry
Restorative dentistry
Oral surgery
Orthodontic procedures
Dental drugs, materials, instruments and equipment
Anaesthesia and sedation in relation to dental procedure

This course will be assessed by completion of a Record of Experience (ROE), a written exam and practical OSCE exam.

The National Diploma is the standard achieved by the majority of dental nurses who qualify in this country. This has replaced the National Certificate Qualification. Successful candidates are eligible to apply for registration on the Voluntary National Register of Dental Nurses, held by the Dental Nurses Standards and Training Advisory Board (DN STAB) under the auspices of the General Dental Council (GDC).