Oral health practitioner apprenticeship

Perform a range of oral health preventive procedures

During the oral health practitioner apprenticeship you’ll perform a range of oral health preventive procedures that involve working in a patient’s mouth. The role complements other dental professionals and fits in the dental career structure, a higher level than a dental nurse but below a dental hygienist, hygienist/therapist or dentist. Working to the direction of a dentist, you’ll take dental bacterial plaque indices and debris scores, apply fluoride varnish, take clinical photographs, take impressions and carry out tooth brushing in the patient’s mouth. You’ll prepare and maintain the clinical environment, carry out infection control and prevention procedures, and prepare, mix and handle bio-materials. You’ll deliver oral health prevention with patients, as well as oral health education and promotion to the public, including clinical preventative advice interventions to targeted groups such as caregivers for older people or ante-natal groups. You’ll also carry out general health screening activities.

Duration: 14 months

Relevant school subjects: Science

Entry requirements for the oral health practitioner apprenticeship: To become an oral health practitioner, you must already be a dental nurse or other appropriate registered dental care professional with the General Dental Council

Achievement upon completion: Level 4 (Higher)—equivalent to a foundation degree

Potential salary upon completion: £26,000 per annum

Find out more: www.apprenticeshipguide.co.uk