What Is a DBS Check?
A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is a background check carried out on individuals working with children or vulnerable adults in the UK. The Disclosure and Barring Service was created in 2012, combining the functions of the former Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA).
For dental nurses, DBS checks are mandatory because patients - particularly elderly patients, children, and those with disabilities - are considered vulnerable. This applies regardless of whether you work in the NHS, private practice, or as a self-employed locum.
What Level of DBS Check Does a Dental Nurse Need?
Dental nurses require an Enhanced DBS check, the highest level available. This level discloses:
A Basic DBS check (which only shows unspent convictions) is not sufficient for dental nursing roles.
How to Get an Enhanced DBS Check
Unlike some background check providers, individuals cannot apply directly to the DBS for an Enhanced check - the application must be submitted through a Registered Body or an Umbrella Body. As a dental nurse, you have several routes:
Through Your Employer
If you are in a permanent role, your employer - the dental practice or corporate group - will process the DBS application on your behalf as part of your pre-employment checks.
Through an Umbrella Body (for Locums)
Self-employed locum dental nurses can apply through a registered umbrella body such as:
These organisations process Enhanced DBS checks on behalf of individuals. Costs typically range from £23–£40 plus the body's processing fee.
Through a Professional Association
Some dental professional associations and unions, including the British Association of Dental Nurses (BADN), can assist members in obtaining DBS checks.
How Long Does a DBS Check Take?
Most Enhanced DBS checks are returned within 2–4 weeks, though complex cases can take longer. Online applications are generally faster than paper-based ones. In practice, many umbrella bodies offer expedited processing.
The DBS Update Service - Essential for Locum Nurses
The DBS Update Service is a subscription service (currently £13/year) that allows you to keep your DBS certificate up to date. Once subscribed, employers and practices can check your certificate online in real time without needing to apply for a new check.
For locum dental nurses working across multiple practices, the Update Service is highly recommended. Without it, each new practice might request a fresh DBS check before allowing you to work - adding weeks of delay and repeat cost. With the Update Service, any practice can instantly verify your check status online, with your permission.
To use the Update Service:
What If You Have Previous Convictions?
Having a previous conviction does not automatically disqualify you from working as a dental nurse. The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 means that many convictions become "spent" after a set period. However, for Enhanced DBS roles like dental nursing, spent convictions are still disclosed.
If you have convictions, the GDC's fitness to practise process will consider them as part of your registration application. You should seek advice from the GDC or a professional association such as the BADN before applying.
How NetworkDental Handles DBS Verification
During the NetworkDental nurse onboarding process, every nurse is asked to provide their DBS certificate details and Update Service subscription number. This allows us to verify your DBS status and display it on your profile. Practices can see your verified DBS status before booking you - no paperwork exchanged, no delays. Nurses who join the Update Service during onboarding can be verified and ready to work on the platform significantly faster.
Register on NetworkDental and get your compliance verified once - then work across multiple practices. Join as a nurse →
