Dental Assistant

About This Role

This Dental Assistant role involves supporting dental procedures, preparing treatment rooms, assisting dentists, and providing patient care in a clinical setting. It ensures smooth operations and adherence to infection control protocols.

Responsibilities

• Assist dental providers chairside during general dentistry procedures, anticipating provider needs and supporting efficient delivery of care
• Prepare treatment rooms, instruments, and supplies prior to patient visits; ensure operatories remain clean, stocked, and ready for use
• Take dental radiographs as permitted by California licensure/certification requirements
• Escort patients to exam rooms, collect/verify relevant medical and dental history, and document appropriately in the patient chart
• Provide patient education and support (pre/post-procedure instructions, oral hygiene guidance, follow-up reminders) within scope and as directed by the provider
• Maintain accurate clinical documentation in the EHR, ensuring required information is available prior to appointments and entered timely
• Maintain strict confidentiality and safeguard patient information in compliance with HIPAA and UCHC standards
• Follow infection control, sterilization, and OSHA standards; disinfect and clean rooms after patient care; properly dispose of contaminated materials
• Maintain sterilization processes and logs/checks as required (e.g., water logs, cold sterilization, instrument logs, emergency medications, expired medications)
• Support inventory management by monitoring stock levels, placing supply requests/orders, and verifying receipt

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited Dental Assistant program
• Current Dental Assistant certification/license as required by the state of California
• CPR/BLS certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire)
• Ability to successfully pass a fingerprinted background check
• Certified Dental Assistant Diploma
• Dental Radiation Safety Certification
• Coronal Polishing Certification
• 8-Hour Infection Control Certification
• Knowledge of California Dental Practice Act
• Knowledge of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
• Experience assisting in general dentistry procedures
• Knowledge of infection control, sterilization processes, and OSHA standards
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to provide respectful, patient-centered care in a fast-paced clinical environment
• Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation in an EHR/EMR system

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited Dental Assistant program

Nice to Have

• Experience working with diverse, underserved, and/or Medicaid populations
• Experience in an FQHC, community clinic, or public health setting
• Familiarity with EHR systems (e.g., eClinicalWorks or similar)

Skills

* Required skills

Certifications