Dental Assistant I

Dental Assistant

Provides clinical, administrative, and operational support within a dental practice to ensure high-quality patient care and efficient clinic operations. Assists dentists and hygienists with patient treatment, diagnostic procedures, infection control, patient flow, and maintenance of dental equipment and supplies. Does this position require Patient Care? Yes

Essential Functions

• Assists dentists during all phases of chairside dental treatment.
• Assists dental hygienists with periodontal charting and dental radiographs.
• Takes, develops, mounts, files, and maintains dental radiographs in accordance with established protocols.
• Provides patients with information regarding oral hygiene, preventive dental care, and post-treatment instructions as directed by the dentist.
• Maintains adequate levels of supplies in assigned operatories and assists with inventory management of dental supplies, instruments, and equipment.
• Maintains assigned dental equipment and instruments in good working order and reports maintenance needs as appropriate.
• Pre-treats contaminated instruments and transports them in designated biohazard containers in accordance with infection control, sterilization, and safety protocols.
• Performs laboratory duties, including pouring and trimming models and preparing materials for treatment as needed.
• Assists with orthodontic procedures and expanded orthodontic duties following appropriate training and competency validation.
• Supports patient flow and contributes to a positive patient experience by coordinating appointments, confirming appointments, screening telephone calls, taking messages, and performing clerical duties related to patient access and scheduling.
• Maintains positive working relationships with patients, families, and colleagues.
• Assists in the onboarding and training of new personnel as assigned.
• Participates in departmental meetings, quality improvement initiatives, and other organizational activities.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.

Can this role accept experience in lieu of a degree?

• Yes

Licenses and Credentials

• Dental Assistant License required. Candidates who are not currently licensed may be considered if eligible to obtain licensure through employer-supported training and in accordance with applicable state requirements.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.

Experience

• Previous dental assistant experience preferred.
• New graduates and candidates with relevant clinical training are encouraged to apply.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Spanish language proficiency preferred.
• Completion of a Dental Assistant or Dental Hygiene program preferred.
• Experience using computers and electronic systems in a healthcare setting.
• Familiarity with dental practice management software, electronic charting, and digital radiography systems preferred.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to provide exceptional patient-centered care.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Professional demeanor and ability to work collaboratively with patients and colleagues.

Additional Job Details (if applicable)

Remote Type

Onsite

Work Location

3297 Washington Street

Scheduled Weekly Hours

32

Employee Type

Regular

Work Shift

Day (United States of America)

Pay Range

$18.58 - $26.58/Hourly

Grade

3