This combined accredited certificate in fluoride varnish and plaque indices enables dental nurses to become competent and confident in measuring and scoring plaque indices and applying fluoride varnish under the prescription of a dentist or as part of a structured oral health programme.
The plaque course teaches using plaque control records and motivating patients to improve oral hygiene, including basic oral health training and plaque scoring with disclosing tablets or solutions.
The fluoride course covers the use and benefits of fluoride, dental anatomy, the carious process, fluoride’s preventative role, contraindications, toxicity, and practical application. It also includes oral health education, patient management, care standards, communication, scope of practice, and consent.
Course Structure
Course Summary
- Format: online, self-paced, with in-clinic impression-taking appointments under supervision
- Average completion time: 3 months
- Number of Learning Units: 15
- CPD Hours: 22 hours
- Guided Learning Hours: Average of 50 hours (depending on the learner’s speed)
Course Assessments
- Unit Quiz: One multiple choice quiz per unit
- Assessments: Record of Competence per course – see information below
Support
- Optional drop-in support session classes available.
- One-to-one tutor support is easily accessible by email, telephone, or Zoom.
Record of Competence Portfolio Plaque Indices
As part of the course, you are required to complete ten records/log sheets not ten patients. A minimum of one patient should be seen on two separate occasions – this will count as two records/log sheets. All appointments must be completed under supervision until you are declared competent. There are no specified patient groups (i.e., children or adults).
The Role of the Supervisor:
Your supervisor must be:
- GDC-Registered: Must hold current registration with the General Dental Council.
- Qualified/Trained in Plaque Indices: Evidence is required for dental nurses who are supervising.
- Willing to Guide: They should be committed to guiding you through your practical training.
- Able to comment and sign: They must be able to provide feedback and sign off on your portfolio.
Record of Competence Portfolio Fluoride Varnish
As part of the course, you are expected to record ten log sheets, comprising five adults and five young adults and children. The RoC must be completed under supervision.
The Role of the Supervisor:
Your supervisor must be:
- GDC-Registered: Must hold current registration with the General Dental Council.
- Qualified/Trained in Fluoride Varnish Application: Evidence is required for dental nurses who are supervising.
- Willing to Guide: They should be committed to guiding you through your practical training.
- Able to comment and sign: They must be able to provide feedback and sign off on your portfolio.
Payment Options
Payment Plans
We now offer the option to pay over three months. Please be aware, this increases the fee to £195.00 inc. VAT.
Payment due dates:
- 03 November 2025 £65.00 (Non-refundable deposit)
- 03 December 2025 £65.00
- 03 January 2026 £65.00
We will NOT send reminders of payment due dates. Failure to make payment by the due dates will result in automatic removal from the course.
Please note, your certificate of competence will not be awarded until full payment is made.
Discounts
Discounts must be requested before payment is made. We do not automatically apply discounts.
Please note that discounts are applied to the VAT-exclusive fee. Discounts cannot be applied to payment plans.
Multiple applicant discounts
- Two applicants: 5% discount
- Three applicants: 10% discount
- Four or more applicants: 15% discount
Multiple course discounts
- Two courses: 5% discount
- Three courses: 10% discount
- Four or more courses: 15% discount
Please apply by telephone or use the application form here. DNN will send you an invoice.
