Dental Assistant

Position Summary
Under the direct supervision of the Dental Office Manager, the Dental Assistant supports daily dental clinic operations, prepares the clinic for patient care, provides chairside assistance to dental providers, and ensures compliance with strict infection control standards.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Assists dental providers in all required procedures.
• Follows infection control policies and procedures, including sterilization, cleaning patient care areas, and proper use of PPE.
• Maintains complete and accurate dental records, charts, and filings; prepares records for providers prior to appointments.
• Prepares operatories for patient care, including cleaning and setting up instruments and supplies.
• Greets and seats patients promptly for their appointments.
• Provides oral hygiene instruction and performs authorized patient care services.
• Prepares post-op care bags, tooth-decay prevention packs, and oral-hygiene information bags.
• Performs digital dental x-rays and takes impressions as ordered.

12/2025

• Prepares treatment plans for patient signatures.
• Maintains eye-wash station and water line; mops and sweeps floors as needed.
• Tracks inventory and supply levels; receives, organizes, restocks, and replaces materials.
• Coordinates with dental staff to support efficient and effective clinic operations.
• Manages closure of operatories, sterilization room, and x-ray machines.
• Assists with orientation, training, and delegation of tasks to assigned staff.
• Serves as dental receptionist in their absence.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

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Physical Requirements
Work is performed in a dental clinic environment and requires:

• Clear verbal communication.
• Repetitive wrist, hand, and finger movements.
• Walking and standing for extended periods.
• Raising or lowering objects; ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.
• Occasional sitting, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
• Working in environments with hazardous materials, excessive noise, and infectious diseases.

The individual must be able to perform essential duties with or without reasonable accommodation without posing a safety risk to self or others.
Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to communicate effectively and demonstrate care in patient interactions.

12/2025

• Strong ability to plan, organize, and execute detailed work.
• Approachable, pleasant, and welcoming demeanor.
• Ability to collect and manage information efficiently.
• Computer literacy (word processing, spreadsheets, databases) sufficient for maintaining records and producing documents.
• Adaptability and initiative to complete tasks efficiently.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
• Knowledge of HIPAA and medical record confidentiality requirements.
• Knowledge of dental terminology, procedures, and diagnoses.