Dental Assistant

The Dental Assistant assists the Director of Dentistry, Staff Dentist, and Dental Hygienist in the care and treatment of patients, filing patient charts, updating records, and performing administrative functions at Johnson Health Center (JHC). Responsibilities Assisting in chairside duties – Helps the dentist and hygienist with seating patients, providing instrumentation, preparing instruments, and assisting examinations and treatments. Patient education – Teaches patients about dental disease, preventive home care, brushing and flossing techniques, postoperative instructions, and oral hygiene practices. Clinical procedures Obtains diagnostic digital X‑rays (bitewings, periapical, panorex) Performs prophylaxis, fluoride varnish, sealants, topical anesthesia, and sutures removal Provides post‑operative instructions Infection control and sterilization – Maintains autoclave cycles, cleans and disinfects operatories, suction lines, and other equipment; monitors sterilization effectiveness. Administrative support – Assists with charting, front‑office duties (check‑in, payments, scheduling), and coordinates with the school program and other JHC services. Team communication – Acts as liaison among clinicians, clinical and non‑clinical staff, and communicates patient information during phone calls. Other duties – Supports front‑desk operations, school dental program, community outreach, and any additional tasks requested by JHC. Physical Demands Fast‑paced office setting with frequent travel between locations. Lifting and exerting force up to 35 pounds occasionally. Requires sitting, standing, bending, walking, stooping, kneeling, repetitive motion, and meeting OSHA high‑risk position requirements. Qualifications High‑school diploma or equivalent. Two to five years of experience in a dental setting preferred. Team‑player with strong communication skills. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and general computer usage. Excellent organizational skills. #J-18808-Ljbffr