Abubakar Mir draws on his experience as a male dental nurse to consider why dental nursing remains female dominated and the impact that stereotyping continues to have on the profession.
Dental nursing has been long assumed to be a female dominated profession, with only around 1.85% of dental nurses in the United Kingdom being male (GDC, 2025). While this perception is slowly changing, gender stereotypes surrounding the role still exist.
As a young male dental nurse working in practice, I have seen the way these assumptions and misconceptions can influence how dental nurses are viewed by patients, colleagues and even ourselves. I have experienced numerous assumptions around gender and age and the way it can affect how dental nurses are portrayed.
I hope that by sharing my experience as a male dental nurse, I can start to break stereotypes and encourage a more inclusive conversation within the profession.
Starting young in a stereotyped role
I grew up in a struggling but demanding household where both of my parents were unemployed and unable to speak English. Their desire was for me to enter a role focused around meeting other people’s needs and making an impact in society. The reason I initially entered this field was to please my parents. Not until I was a qualified dental nurse did I realise I wanted to be the reason why people can put their trust into healthcare workers.
I began my career in dental nursing at 16, an age often associated with immaturity or lack of professionalism. Choosing this path so early was a very nerve-wracking decision as it prompted questions not only about my gender but also whether I was ‘too young’ to understand the responsibilities involved in working within healthcare. I was extremely scared and worried that I would struggle around others.
However, starting at a younger age proved to be one of the most valuable decisions I have made, both in my career and in my wider life. It allowed me to develop my clinical skills, professionalism and confidence from an early stage. Over time, this has improved my character and reinforced my commitment to dentistry as a long-term career.
Why are gender stereotypes still present?
With men making up just 1.85% of the dental nursing workforce, it is perhaps no question that assumptions still exist around who ‘fits’ the role. Historically, caring and supportive roles within healthcare such as dental nursing have been associated with women. Meanwhile, men in dentistry are more often expected to pursue roles such as dentists, specialists or practice owners.
While none of these roles are gender specific, these assumptions have a big impact on perceptions today. As a male dental nurse, I have encountered patients who assume I am the dentist or question why I chose dental nursing rather than pursuing another role. These comments reinforce the idea that dental nursing is either a temporary position or not a suitable long term career choice for men.
Professional growth and career progression
Dental nursing is not a limitation; it is a foundation of the dental field. My journey from starting as a trainee dental nurse at 16 to now a qualified dental nurse pursing further progression into dental therapy at 19 reflects the opportunities available within the profession. Especially for those who are motivated and committed.
The experience I have gained as a dental nurse has made a huge impact in developing my understanding of patient care, clinical environment and teamwork. These skills are transferable to the progression of a clinician which creates a broader, more restorative and preventative clinical scope, this is achievable and realistically possible for anyone to pursue after qualifying as a dental nurse.
Why representation matters
Representation within healthcare professions is essential. When a patient sees a diverse dental team, in terms of gender, age and background, it challenges assumption and helps normalise gender misconception within the clinical setting. Even within a dental team, it allows for different perspectives – strengthening the teamwork overall creating a team balance promoting morale, mutual respect and professional development within the team.
For young men considering dental nursing, the low percentage of males in the workforce may be discouraging. But by increasing awareness and sharing real experiences, we can help challenge perceptions and create an encouragement for a wider range of individuals to consider the profession. Diversity strengthens dentistry, benefiting both healthcare individuals and the patients they serve. It will also increase the number of dental nurses overall.
Looking ahead
The dental profession continues to increase and perspectives towards gender roles and career pathways are changing. While stereotypes still exist, they are increasingly being challenged through education, conversation and representation.
As a male dental nurse who began this journey at 16 and continues to progress professionally, I am proud of the role I play within the dental team. By sharing my experience and using social media, to show updates on my journey in this field, I hope to promote a more inclusive understanding of dental nursing, one that values skill, professionalism and ambition over fear. Dentistry focuses on teamwork, empathy and competence – qualities that are not defined by age or gender.
Reference
- General Dental Council (2025). Registration report. [online] Available at: https://www.gdc-uk.org/docs/default-source/registration/registration-reports/registration-report—june-2025_a.pdf?sfvrsn=53b80578_1.
