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Abstract
Objectives/aims The aims of this article are to assess entry requirements for dental nurses applying to dentistry and determine whether dentistry is a viable career option for dental nurses. Materials and methods A survey of all 11 UK dental schools’ dentistry entry requirements was carried out to determine whether General Dental Council (GDC) approved dental nursing qualifications are accepted as part of a dentistry application. Each school was also contacted via email to confirm their entry requirements. Results One UK dental school recognises a dental nursing certificate alongside other qualifications. Most dental schools require dental nurses to complete 3 A levels (at minimum AAA in scientific subjects) or encourage application to access courses and completely disregard any dental nursing qualifications. Discussion It could be suggested that UK dental schools overlook the experience and knowledge of dental nurses by not supporting their existing credentials. The University of Sheffield accepts dentistry applicants with an approved dental nursing certificate alongside six A grades at GCSE and two A levels at minimum grade BB (chemistry and biology). Conclusion Should UK dental schools reevaluate their entry requirements for our well respected dental nurses? Our opinion stands that dental schools should be taking advantage of the experience, knowledge and skills of dental nurses by offering improved access to dentistry.
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