On the job Training for Dental Assistant/Dental Receptionist

Position Summary

The OJT Dental Assistant/Receptionist role is designed for individuals who are new to the dental field and seeking hands-on training while working in a clinical setting. Under the supervision of licensed dentist, the trainee will learn essential clinical, administrative, and patient-care skills required for an entry-level dental assistant and dental receptionist position. This role emphasizes learning, growth, and competency development.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Support

• Assist the dentist during a variety of dental procedures and chart documentation.
• Prepare treatment rooms by cleaning, disinfecting, and setting up instruments and materials.
• Sterilize instruments following office and OSHA standards.
• Manage chairside tasks such as suctioning, retracting, and mixing materials (as trained).
• Take dental X-rays once training and certification requirements are met (based on state regulations).

Patient Care

• Greet and prepare patients for treatment.
• Review basic medical history information with patients.
• Provide postoperative instructions as directed by the dentist.
• Support patient comfort throughout procedures.
• Maintain a compassionate, professional, and reassuring chairside manner.

Sterilization & Infection Control

• Follow sterilization protocols for instruments and operatory areas.
• Learn proper handling of hazardous materials and sharps.
• Maintain compliance with OSHA and CDC infection control guidelines.

Administrative & Office Support

• Scheduling appointments, and patient check-in/check-out procedures.
• Update electronic health records with notes as directed.
• Answering phone calls, confirming appointments, taking payments.

Skills You Will Learn During OJT

• Dental terminology and anatomy
• Four-handed dentistry
• OSHA & infection control standards
• Radiography techniques (state-specific certification will be required)
• Proper instrument handling and sterilization
• Chairside assistance for common procedures (cleanings, fillings, crowns, extractions, etc.)
• Treatment room setup and breakdown
• Patient communication and professional etiquette
• Use of dental practice software (Open Dental)

Qualifications

• Minimum Bachelor's degree.
• Strong interest in dentistry and patient care.
• Excellent communication, listening, and teamwork skills.
• Ability to follow instructions, adapt to fast-paced environments, and learn new tasks quickly.
• Must have work experience of about 3-4 years (preferably in medical field)
• Professional appearance and friendly demeanor.
• No prior dental experience required; all training provided on-site.

Work Environment

• Clinical dental office setting.
• Direct supervision by the dentist and senior dental assistants.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and assisting chairside.
• Exposure to dental materials, radiation (with proper shielding/training), and infection control procedures.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $22.00 - $25.00 per hour

Work Location: In person