Dental Assistant

Job Title: Dental Assistant Department: Clinical Operations Reports To: Practice Manager FLSA Status: Non-Exempt $1,500 Sign-On Bonus$! (For Full Time) Schedule Monday through Thursday: 8:30 am - 4:00 pm (Assisting a General Dentist) Friday: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm (Assisting a Pediatric Dentist) Full Time Assistant Pay starts at $26/hour **Compensation floors are based on candidate having at least 12 months of Dental Assisting experience, OR, being a Certified Dental Assistant Are you an experienced Dental Assistant looking for a position closer to home? We have an opening for you at West Hartford Family Dental! Position Summary The Dental Assistant supports the dentist and clinical team in delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. This role is responsible for assisting during a variety of dental procedures, preparing and maintaining treatment rooms, and ensuring patients have a smooth, efficient, and comfortable experience throughout their visit. The Dental Assistant plays a key role in maintaining a clean, organized, and compliant clinical environment while supporting efficient patient flow and clinical operations. This position requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced setting. About Us We are a growing, dentist-owned dental group dedicated to delivering exceptional, patient-centered care. Our team is built on collaboration, clinical excellence, and a shared commitment to creating a positive experience for both patients and team members. We foster a supportive and engaging environment where team members can thrive and continue to develop their skills. Our practices are equipped with advanced technology, including intraoral cameras, digital scanners, and Dexis digital x-ray sensors. We utilize Carestack, a modern, cloud-based practice management platform, and prioritize ongoing training and professional development for all team members. Key Responsibilities Clinical Duties Assist the dentist during examinations and dental procedures. Provide chairside support and anticipate the needs of the dentist throughout procedures. Prepare and sterilize instruments and treatment rooms before and after patient visits. Ensure and assist in proper sterilization, maintenance, and organization of instruments and equipment for the practice team. Ensure all materials, instruments, and equipment are properly prepared for each procedure. Take and record patient information, including medical histories, vital signs, radiographs, and intraoral photographs. Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation within Carestack software. Educate patients on oral hygiene, post-operative instructions, and pre/post-treatment care as directed by the provider. Maintain compliance with infection control, sterilization, OSHA, HIPAA, and safety standards. Support efficient patient flow to help maintain on-time scheduling and a positive patient experience. Maintain cleanliness, organization, and readiness of operatories and clinical areas. Assist with inventory monitoring and notify leadership of supply needs as appropriate. Other related duties as assigned to support practice operations and patient care. Characteristics Strong knowledge of dental instruments and procedures. Ability to anticipate provider needs and work efficiently during procedures. Professional, punctual, and dependable. Friendly demeanor with strong interpersonal and patient service skills. Comfortable communicating with patients and helping them feel at ease. Detail-oriented with strong organizational abilities. Proactive mindset with the ability to adapt in a fast-paced setting. Collaborative team player with a willingness to learn and grow. Collaboration & Communication Communicate clearly, professionally, and compassionately with patients and team members. Support a positive, collaborative, and team-oriented work environment. Work closely with providers and front office team members to ensure seamless patient care and scheduling coordination. Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and responsiveness in daily operations. Assist in maintaining consistency in patient care standards and workflows across the practice. Provide support in covering operational needs as necessary to ensure smooth office flow. Qualifications 2 years of dental assisting experience preferred. Knowledge of dental terminology, instruments, and clinical procedures. Active X-ray certification/radiology certification. Current CPR/First Aid certification required. Working knowledge of HIPAA and patient privacy standards. Basic computer proficiency required; experience with Carestack or similar dental software preferred. Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills. Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced clinical environment. Commitment to delivering excellent patient care and professionalism. Physical Requirements Ability to sit, stand, and work chairside for extended periods. Manual dexterity to operate dental instruments and equipment. Ability to lift up to 25 lbs occasionally. Compensation & Benefits Competitive compensation based on experience. Comprehensive benefits for full-time team members (30+ hours), including: Medical coverage with HSA or FSA options Dental plan options Life insurance Short- and long-term disability 401(k) with company match Paid time off Company-sponsored continuing education Opportunities for additional bonuses and incentive pay Work Schedule Full-time and part-time opportunities available; schedules may vary based on patient volume and office needs. Flexibility may be required to support operational and patient care needs across Plum practices. Promote and attend CE events