Certified Dental Assistant

Job Summary:
We are seeking a motivated, skilled, and Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) to join our dynamic dental team. The CDA will be responsible for assisting the dentist in a variety of treatment procedures, providing direct patient care, maintaining a sterile and organized clinical environment, and ensuring a smooth and efficient workflow. The ideal candidate will be professional, compassionate, highly organized, and possess excellent communication and clinical skills.

Key Responsibilities:

• Chairside Assisting:

  • Prepare treatment rooms, instruments, and materials for dental procedures.

  • Assist the dentist during a variety of treatment procedures (e.g., restorative, surgical, endodontic, prosthetic).

  • Pass instruments and materials efficiently and anticipate the dentist's needs.

  • Provide suctioning, retraction, and maintain a clear operating field.

• Patient Care & Education:

  • Welcome, seat, and prepare patients for treatment, ensuring their comfort.

  • Explain procedures to patients and answer their questions within the scope of practice.

  • Provide pre-operative and post-operative instructions to patients.

  • Take and record patient medical and dental histories and vital signs.

• Radiology & Impressions:

  • Expose and process diagnostic dental radiographs (X-rays) in accordance with state regulations and safety protocols.

  • Take preliminary impressions, pour, trim, and polish study casts.

• Sterilization & Infection Control:

  • Adhere strictly to infection control protocols and sterilization procedures.

  • Clean, disinfect, and sterilize dental instruments, equipment, and operatories.

  • Maintain sterilization equipment and records.

• Laboratory Procedures:

  • Perform basic laboratory tasks as directed by the dentist (e.g., pouring models, fabricating temporary crowns).

  • Prepare and manage lab cases, ensuring timely pick-up and delivery.

• Record Keeping & Administrative Support:

  • Accurately chart dental procedures and patient information in electronic or paper records.

  • Assist with maintaining inventory of dental supplies and ordering as needed.

  • May occasionally assist with front office tasks such as scheduling appointments or answering phones.

• Team Collaboration:

  • Work collaboratively with dentists, hygienists, and other office staff.

  • Maintain a positive and professional demeanor.

  • Participate in team meetings and continuing education opportunities.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Certification: Current Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) or equivalent state-recognized certification.

• Licensure/Registration: Current state-required dental assistant license or registration (if applicable).

• Radiology Certification: Current state-required radiology certification/license.

• CPR Certification: Current Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR certification.

• Education: Graduation from an accredited dental assisting program.

• Experience: Minimum 1-2 years of experience as a dental assistant preferred, but new graduates with strong skills will be considered.

• Technical Skills:

  • Proficiency in four-handed dentistry.

  • Knowledge of dental instruments, materials, and procedures.

  • Experience with digital radiography and Dentrix dental software.

• Soft Skills:

  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

  • Ability to multitask and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.

  • Compassionate, empathetic, and patient-focused approach.

  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team.

  • Reliable and punctual.