Is A Radiography Course For Dental Nurses Worth It?
Radiology for dental nurses is a highly valuable professional development opportunity, widening job opportunities, increasing salary scope, and varying the day-to-day tasks, making the role more interesting and diverse. However, since it requires an upfront cost and commitment of time, some dental nurses are understandably wary about if it is worth it.
This blog aims to break down the key factors that should be considered when undertaking radiology as a dental nursing professional development opportunity, from salary increase breakdowns to dental nurse radiology jobs.
What Does Radiography For Dental Nurses Entail?
Completing a radiology course can significantly alter the day-to-day role of a dental nurse, broadening their scope of practice and introducing new additional independent responsibilities.
With radiology training, dental nurses are equipped to perform unsupervised and interpret a variety of radiographic procedures on prescription of the dentist. This includes taking a variety of X-rays, processing images, and ensuring that all radiographic equipment is used correctly and safely. They may also assist in more complex diagnostic imaging procedures.
Radiography For Dental Nurses Course Overview
Course Content:
- Radiation Physics:
- Understand the principles of radiation physics and its use in dental radiography.
- Radiation Protection:
- Learn how to protect yourself and others from radiation effects.
- X-ray Equipment:
- Gain skills in safely using X-ray machines and other dental equipment.
- Film Types and Processing:
- Learn about different film types, intensifying screens, and darkroom processes.
- Digital Imaging:
- Explore intraoral, extraoral, and digital X-rays, and demonstrate your skills through an exam.
Certification:
- Successful students will be certified by NEBDN.
Course Details:
- Format: Online virtual classes via zoom.
- Duration: 8 months.
- Schedule: Classes on the first Saturday of each month at 2:00 pm.
- Intake: January and July.
- Exam: Online exams in March and September.
- Cost: £500 plus exam fee.
- Locations: Available online,
- Why Choose Us?
- Accredited Training: Provided by experienced dental professionals who are qualified dentists.
- Career Benefits: Gain skills in radiation safety, equipment use, and support in dental practices.
Entry Requirements:
- Must be a qualified dental nurse registered with the General Dental Council (GDC).
- Support from an employing dentist to validate workplace activities.
- Registration with an approved training provider.
Dental Radiography Job Prospects
A dental nurse who has completed a radiology course will find a significantly broader range of job opportunities compared to those who haven’t pursued further professional development. This specialised training not only enhances their current role but also opens doors to a variety of advanced positions within the dental field.
For instance, a dental nurse with radiology qualifications can take on roles such as a radiography specialist or coordinator, where they are responsible for performing and managing radiographic procedures. They may also have the opportunity to work in specialised clinics such as orthodontic, periodontal, or oral surgery centres, where advanced radiographic skills are essential. This specialisation can lead to increased responsibilities, such as assisting with complex diagnostic procedures and providing valuable support in treatment planning.
In contrast, dental nurses who have not pursued radiology training may face more limited career progression and fewer opportunities for advanced roles. Overall, investing in radiology training greatly enhances job prospects and professional growth, setting those who take this step apart from their peers in the field.
Radiography Dental Nurse Salary
Completing a radiology course can significantly enhance a dental nurse’s salary, though the exact increase can vary depending on several factors such as location, experience, and the specific role undertaken.
On average, dental nurses with radiology qualifications can see a salary increase of approximately 10% to 20% compared to their peers without such qualifications. For example, in the UK, the average salary for a dental nurse without radiology training typically ranges from £22,000 to £30,000 per year. With added radiology qualifications, this could rise to between £24,000 and £36,000 annually, depending on the complexity of the role and the additional responsibilities.
In addition to a higher base salary, radiology-trained dental nurses often have better prospects for promotions and can qualify for specialised roles that command higher pay. These roles might include radiography specialist, radiology coordinator, or even positions in specialised dental practices where advanced imaging skills are in high demand.