Dental Assistant II

Job Type


Full-time

Description

The Dental Assistant II performs advanced intra-oral, expanded-function procedures permitted under Virginia law to enhance the efficiency and reach of our clinic. This role blends strong clinical competencies with a deep commitment to public health, trauma-informed care, and serving diverse adult populations.


Essential Job Functions:

• Performs advanced intra-oral, expanded-function duties including placing and shaping restorative materials (composite, glass ionomer), managing matrix bands, and applying liners/bases under the direct supervision of the Dentist.
• Provides comprehensive chairside assistance using efficient four-handed dentistry techniques tailored to adult patient comfort and safety.
• Fabricates high-quality provisional restorations (temporary crowns and bridges) and performs denture adjustments and soft relines.
• Takes final impressions using PVS and alginate for crown/bridge procedures as well as for removable prosthesis such as partial and complete dentures, night guards, etc.
• Accurately and efficiently pours impressions in yellow stone to be sent to the dental lab.
• Takes diagnostic dental radiographs (X-rays) in strict compliance with safety regulations.
• Prepares, sterilizes, and disinfects operatory spaces, dental instruments, and equipment according to OSHA, CDC, and clinical safety guidelines.
• Accurately documents treatment details and updates patient electronic charts.
• Educates adult patients on custom postoperative care instructions and routine oral hygiene strategies to optimize long-term health outcomes.
• Ensures compliance with HIPAA and privacy standards by maintaining the confidentiality and security of patient information and reporting potential privacy concerns in a timely manner.
• Collaborates with the Development Department to collect stories and photos from clients, staff, and volunteers to promote the mission of the organization.
• Completes other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Experience

• Minimum of 2+ years of experience as a dental assistant is highly preferred.

Education/Certification

• Successful completion of a formal Expanded Functions/Dental Assistant II training program.
• Must hold active certification as a Dental Assistant II (DA II) or equivalent state-recognized credentials in Virginia.
• Active Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) / Radiology certification.
• Current CPR or BLS certification.

Skills and Abilities

• Exceptional manual dexterity and ability to provide high-quality treatment.
• Excellent interpersonal communication and collaboration skills displaying a caring, tactful, diplomatic, and respectful attitude towards staff, volunteers, and clients using a trauma-informed care approach, building trust with underserved adult populations.
• Bilingual (Spanish) is a plus.
• Proficient in the use of electronic dental records.
• Ability to proactively identify and implement solutions that improve workplace efficiency, effectively balance competing priorities with strong attention to detail, adapt to changing work demands, and recognize when additional guidance or support is needed to maintain patient safety and optimize quality of care.
• Ability to work with a variety of volunteers and care situations in sometimes unpredictable conditions and be able to build and maintain those relationships.
• Understand that all employees participate in engaging volunteers to help fulfill our mission.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Conditions:

• Prolonged periods of sitting, standing, talking, and walking.
• Prolonged periods of repetitive movement such as leaning over.
• Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds at times.
• Must wear personal protective equipment as needed (mask, gown, gloves, glasses, etc.).
• Occasional exposure to cleaning chemicals for infectious control purposes, and potentially hazardous bodily fluids.

GoochlandCares is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, gender, creed, color, religion, ethnic origin, alienage or national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability or handicap, sex, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, arrest record, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. GoochlandCares is committed to building a healthy, diverse, and inclusive culture where all are treated equitably and are empowered whether receiving or delivering services. Our mission is to provide basic human services and health care to our Goochland neighbors in need.