Dental Assistant

Position Summary

The Dental Assistant supports the Dentist in delivering dental care to the incarcerated patient population, performing chairside assistance, instrument and operatory preparation, radiographs as permitted, and dental records support. This role helps maintain infection control and operatory readiness while collaborating with the dental and medical team in a secure environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Chairside and Clinical Support
• Provide chairside assistance to the Dentist during examinations and procedures.
• Prepare and break down the operatory, sterilize and set up instruments, and
ensure supplies are stocked.
• Take and process dental radiographs as permitted by state law and certification.
• Take and document patient dental and medication history and update records as directed.
Operatory and Infection Control
• Maintain dental equipment and instruments and follow sterilization and infection control protocols.
• Ensure proper labeling, handling, and storage of dental materials and supplies.
• Monitor instrument and sharps counts in accordance with facility policy and
correctional requirements.
Coordination and Compliance
• Assist in scheduling dental appointments and coordinating patient flow with
nursing and custody.
• Maintain accurate dental records and confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA.
• Follow facility safety and security policies, including handling of keys, sharps, and secure areas.
• Adhere to Thrive Medical Services policies, NCCHC standards, and applicable laws and regulations.

Qualifications
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Dental Assistant certification or registration as required by the State of New
Mexico, or ability to meet state guidelines.
• Current CPR/BLS certification.
• Knowledge of chairside assisting, sterilization, and infection control practices.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to work in a secure correctional
environment.

Preferred Qualifications
• Radiology/X-ray certification as permitted in New Mexico.
• Prior correctional, public health, or community dental experience.
• Familiarity with NCCHC dental care standards.

What We Offer
Competitive pay. Stable scheduling. Supportive leadership and clinical oversight. Opportunity to be part of a growing correctional healthcare organization. Meaningful work serving an underserved population.

About Thrive Medical Services, LLC
Thrive Medical Services, LLC is a New Mexico-based correctional healthcare provider committed to delivering high-quality medical, mental health, and substance use disorder services to county detention facilities. Our mission is to provide ethical, compliant, and patient-centered care while supporting our clinical staff with strong leadership and clear clinical protocols.