Full-time isn’t right for everyone — childcare, studying, a second job, health. Here’s how to actually find dental nursing work that fits.
Why it’s harder to search for than it should be
Most job ads are written for full-time roles by default, even when a practice would genuinely consider part-time for the right person. Flexibility often isn’t advertised — it’s negotiated after a practice already likes you.
What to actually do
- Ask, even if the ad doesn’t mention it. Practices short-staffed on trained nurses (which is most of them right now) are often more flexible than their job ad suggests.
- Be specific about what you need, not just “flexible.” Two set days a week is a much easier yes for a practice to plan around than “whatever works.”
- Locum/agency work is a genuine option if you want full control over your hours — you pick shifts as they suit you, though pay can be less predictable than a fixed part-time contract, and you’re responsible for chasing payment yourself.
- Register with an agency and say exactly what you’re after. A recruiter who knows your specific availability can flag opportunities before they’re ever advertised.
Coming back to dental nursing after time away? Our guide on returning to dental nursing after a career break covers what to expect.
Tell us what hours actually work for you. Register your CV with Horizon Dental Jobs and we’ll match you to roles that fit your life, not the other way round.