This session challenges the outdated perceptions of dental nursing and highlights our integral role in modern oral health care. We will explore the diverse scope of practice available to dental nurses in the UK, emphasising our status as highly skilled professionals. The lecture also discusses career progression opportunities, including extended duties, leadership roles, and education pathways. This presentation will inspire and empower trainee, newly-qualified and experienced dental nurses to proudly embrace their professional potential while promoting teamwork and high-quality patient care in dentistry.

• 1. Participants will have enhanced knowledge of the dental nurse's scope of practice, including extended duties.
• 2. Participants will be able to identify pathways for career progression in dental nursing and understand their relevance to patient care.
• 3. Participants will gain insight into how dental nurses can contribute to high-quality patient care through teamwork and collaboration.