Looking to kickstart a rewarding career in healthcare? Dental Assistant jobs Ireland are a fantastic entry point into the dental profession, with high demand across clinics, specialist practices, and hospitals. At Dentistry Jobs Ireland, we match candidates of all experience levels with dental assistant jobs tailored to your skills and aspirations.
What is a Dental Assistant?
A dental assistant (sometimes called a dental nurse in Ireland) is a key member of the dental care team. Dental assistants work alongside dentists and hygienists, ensuring the smooth running of patient treatments and providing essential support in all aspects of dental practice.
What Does a Dental Assistant Do?
The role of a dental assistant is varied and hands-on. Key responsibilities include:
- Preparing treatment rooms and sterilising dental instruments
- Assisting the dentist during procedures (e.g., fillings, crowns, extractions)
- Passing instruments, suctioning, and ensuring patient comfort
- Taking and processing dental x-rays (with appropriate training)
- Keeping patient records and updating dental charts
- Supporting infection control procedures and maintaining high standards of hygiene
- Answering patient questions and offering reassurance
- Ordering supplies and maintaining stock levels
- Sometimes assisting on reception, managing appointments, or handling billing
What do you call a dental assistant? In Ireland, “dental assistant” and “dental nurse” are often used interchangeably. Both play an essential role in dental healthcare.
What Industry is Dental Assistant?
Dental assistants work within the healthcare and dental industry. Most jobs are in private dental clinics, orthodontic and specialist practices, dental hospitals, and sometimes in public health settings. The dental assistant is a respected role with opportunities for growth and career development in healthcare.
What Skills Do You Need to Be a Dental Assistant?
- Great communication and people skills
- Attention to detail and organisation
- Manual dexterity and confidence working in a clinical environment
- Teamwork and willingness to help others
- Compassion, patience, and a reassuring manner
- Ability to multitask and work under pressure
- Basic IT and record-keeping skills
- Interest in science and health
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Ireland
Many people wonder, how to become a dental assistant or how to get dental assistant certificate. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- **Education:** While a Leaving Certificate (or equivalent) is the minimum requirement, many employers prefer candidates with a QQI Level 5 certificate in Dental Nursing or Healthcare Support. Some clinics will provide on-the-job training to suitable candidates.
- **Training:** Dental assistant courses are offered at several colleges in Ireland, such as the Dublin Dental University Hospital, Cork University Dental School & Hospital, and various further education institutes. Courses typically take 1–2 years.
- **Registration:** While not mandatory, some roles prefer or require Dental Council of Ireland registration, especially for dental nurses who take x-rays or assist in sedation procedures.
- **Work Experience:** Many students gain experience via placements in dental clinics as part of their training. Some clinics also hire trainees with a view to supporting their studies.
- **Continuous Professional Development (CPD):** Keeping up-to-date with infection control, new techniques, and digital dentistry will help you progress.
Where to become a dental assistant? Find accredited training programmes at universities, dental hospitals, and further education colleges throughout Ireland.
How Long is School for Dental Assistant?
Most dental assistant training programmes in Ireland last between 1–2 years (full-time or part-time). Fast-track options and work-based apprenticeships are available in some locations. After qualifying, further career opportunities include senior dental nurse, dental hygienist, or practice manager.
How Much Does a Dental Assistant Make in Ireland?
Dental assistant salaries in Ireland are competitive and reflect experience, training, and location:
- Entry-level dental assistant: €27,000 – €30,000 per year
- Experienced dental assistant: €31,000 – €38,000 per year
- Hourly rate: €13–€20 per hour, depending on the clinic and your responsibilities
Overtime, bonuses, pension contributions, and paid CPD may also be offered. Urban areas such as Dublin, Cork, and Galway may offer higher salaries.
Dental Assistant Jobs Ireland – Current Demand
There is an ongoing shortage of qualified dental assistants and dental nurses across Ireland. Many clinics offer full-time, part-time, and flexible shift opportunities. Bilingual and internationally qualified applicants are welcome, with support for work permits and relocation available in many practices.
Dental assistant jobs Ireland are not only plentiful but offer excellent job security, career progression, and the chance to work in a friendly, team-oriented environment.
Why Choose Dentistry Jobs Ireland?
Dentistry Jobs Ireland is the specialist dental recruitment agency dedicated to finding you the best dental assistant jobs Ireland has to offer. Our team provides:
- Personalised job matching
- Help with CVs and interview preparation
- Guidance on training, certification, and registration
- Support for new graduates and experienced assistants
- Assistance for international candidates with visas and relocation
We partner with dental clinics, hospitals, and specialist practices nationwide to bring you exclusive opportunities not listed elsewhere.
View the latest Dental Assistant Jobs in Ireland or register your details now to be considered for new openings as soon as they arise.
Testimonial – Success Story from a Dental Assistant
“I moved to Ireland from Brazil and found my first job as a dental assistant through Dentistry Jobs Ireland. The team supported me with interview tips and helped arrange my work permit. I love my job and am now training to become a dental hygienist!”
— Mariana S., Dental Assistant, Cork
Dental Assistant Jobs Ireland Video
Map: Dental Assistant Jobs Across Ireland
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Frequently Asked Questions – Dental Assistant Jobs
- How to become a dental assistant?
- What do you call a dental assistant in Ireland?
- What does a dental assistant do day-to-day?
- What industry is dental assistant?
- What skills do you need to be a dental assistant?
- How to get dental assistant certificate?
- Where to become a dental assistant?
- How much does a dental assistant make in Ireland?
- How long is school for dental assistant?
Contact & Social Links
- Website: https://dentistryjobs.ie/
- Phone: +353 21 601 0016
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