Surgical Dental Assistant

Periodontal Assistant – Job Description

Position Summary: The Periodontal Assistant supports the periodontist in delivering high-quality periodontal and implant care. This role involves clinical assistance, patient communication, instrument preparation, and ensuring a safe, sterile, and efficient environment for both patients and staff.

Key Responsibilities:

Clinical Support

• Assist the periodontist during periodontal surgeries, implant procedures, and non-surgical treatments.
• Prepare and maintain surgical trays, instruments, and materials prior to procedures.
• Take and process dental radiographs (including CBCT scans if applicable).
• Provide chairside assistance, including suctioning, retracting tissues, passing instruments, and mixing materials.
• Manage post-operative instructions and ensure patients understand care protocols.

Sterilization & Infection Control

• Adhere strictly to OSHA, HIPAA, and infection-control standards.
• Sterilize instruments and maintain a clean, compliant operatory.
• Monitor and document sterilization procedures and equipment maintenance.

Patient Care & Communication

• Greet and prepare patients for treatment; help them feel comfortable and informed.
• Review medical histories and update patient records accurately.
• Educate patients on periodontal maintenance, oral hygiene, and post-op care.
• Follow up with patients after surgical procedures to ensure proper healing.

Administrative Support

• Assist with scheduling, charting, and documentation in the practice management system.
• Manage inventory, order supplies, and track usage to ensure operatory readiness.
• Support treatment coordination by providing procedure details and preparing written estimates when needed.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• formal dental assistant training preferred.
• Experience in periodontics or oral surgery is strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of periodontal procedures, instruments, and materials.
• CPR certification.
• Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and patient-centered mindset.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods.
• Manual dexterity for handling instruments.
• Ability to lift or move equipment up to ~25 lbs.

Personal Attributes:

• Compassionate, professional, and calm under pressure.
• Reliable, punctual, and able to work as part of a team.

Strong organizational skills and commitment to patient care.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $20.00 - $23.00 per hour

Work Location: In person