Periodontist dental nurse

What does a dental nurse within periodontology do? – Tasks and work environment

A periodontology dental nurse works closely with dentists and specialist dentists focusing on periodontal diseases. Tasks include assisting during treatments, providing support to patients before and after procedures, as well as performing preventive and follow-up measures such as cleaning, oral hygiene counseling, and documentation. The work mainly takes place at specialist clinics or larger dental practices, characterized by close patient contact, precision, and high standards of hygiene and teamwork.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for periodontology dental nurses has shown a steady and positive trend. In 2022, the average salary was 29,700 SEK per month, which increased to 31 200 in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 33 500, representing a total increase of just over 12.8% over three years. This growth can be linked to increased demand for specialist competence in dental care and general salary adjustments within the healthcare sector. Experienced and further qualified periodontology dental nurses have become increasingly sought after, contributing to the positive salary development. Gender differences have also decreased, with women now earning more on average than their male colleagues.

Periodontology Dental Nurse salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,300 SEK/month (male, municipal sector)
• Highest salary: 38,100 SEK/month (male, public sector)
• Hourly wage (average): 201 SEK
• Women: 33 500 SEK/month
• Men: 30 200 SEK/month
• Women earn: 111% of what men do

Education and qualifications

The path to working as a periodontology dental nurse begins with a vocational college education for dental assistants, followed by further training or experience in periodontology. The education is practical and often combined with internships at dental clinics. Specialization in periodontology typically occurs through workplace-based competence development and short courses.

• Vocational college diploma: Dental assistant training (about 1.5 years)
• Further training: Courses in periodontology
• Internship: Included in the education (LIA – Learning in work)
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for vocational college
• Certifications: Possible via employers or industry organizations

Common benefits and compensations

Periodontology dental nurses are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, paid further training, and extra vacation days. Opportunities for additional education, flexible working hours, and sometimes bonuses or overtime pay for work during unsociable hours are also available.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a periodontology dental nurse is moderate, with a balanced relationship between supply and demand in the job market. The Employment Service assesses that job opportunities will remain unchanged over the next five years. A challenge is to stay updated on new treatment methods and materials, as well as managing patients with complex care needs. The work requires great precision, empathy, and teamwork skills, while workload can sometimes be high. Regional differences may exist, with larger cities often offering more specialized services and somewhat higher salaries.

Tips for those who want to become a periodontology dental nurse

To succeed as a periodontology dental nurse, it is beneficial to have a genuine interest in dental care and a strong commitment to patient contact. Precision is crucial to ensure treatments are performed correctly and safely, so practicing routines and documentation during training is important. Flexibility helps when tasks and workload vary, and teamwork skills are necessary as the work is performed in collaboration with dentists and hygienists. Being attentive and communicative aids in patient interactions, especially with those who have dental anxiety. It is also wise to pursue continuing education in periodontology, as specialized knowledge often leads to more career opportunities. Finally, patience and empathy are key traits for creating trust and good relationships with patients.

Key facts about Periodontology Dental Nurse

• Salary range: 27,300–38,100 SEK/month
• Education level: Vocational college diploma (1.5 years) + further training
• Gender distribution: Women earn 111% of men's salaries
• Job market: 375 job openings, moderate opportunities
• Typical workplace: Specialist clinics and larger dental practices

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are good opportunities for further development within specialist dental care, such as team leader, supervisor for students, or further training in other dental specialties. The forecast from the Employment Service indicates that the demand for dental assistants, including periodontology dental nurses, is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The job market is characterized by a balance between supply and demand, meaning there is neither a shortage nor an oversupply of workers. The number of job vacancies remains stable, and the chance of permanent employment is good, especially for those with specialist competence and experience from larger clinics.

Frequently asked questions about Periodontology Dental Nurse

• What does a Parodontology Dental Nurse earn?
  - The average salary is 33 500 SEK per month. The lowest salary is 27,300 SEK and the highest is 38,100 SEK.
• How does the salary development look?
  - The salary has increased by just over 12.8% over three years, from 29,700 SEK in 2022 to 33 500 in 2024.
• What education is required?
  - Vocational college education for dental assistants (1.5 years) and further training in periodontology are recommended.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 33 500 SEK and men 30 200 SEK, which means women earn 111% of men's salaries.
• What does the job market look like?
  - There are 375 job openings within the profession, with moderate opportunities.
• What tasks does a periodontology dental nurse perform?
  - Tasks include assisting during treatments, patient support, oral hygiene advice, and documentation.
• Where do people usually work?
  - Most work at specialist clinics or larger dental practices focusing on periodontology.