Dental Assistant

Commonwealth Dentistry•Suffolk, VA

19h•Onsite

About The Position

We are looking for an experienced chairside Dental Assistant who is reliable, takes pride in their work, and helps create a positive experience for patients and teammates. This hands-on, in-person role supports general and restorative dental procedures and also helps patients understand treatment recommendations and costs, schedule follow-up care, and keep the provider’s schedule full. The clinical team works to full schedules, and each team member contributes throughout the day. The role requires regular, predictable, on-time attendance for the full scheduled shift, patient-focused engagement during care, a positive and professional attitude, and a team-first approach. The Dental Assistant must communicate clearly about treatment costs and scheduling, and maintain high standards of personal hygiene, grooming, and clean scrubs. The position involves physical chairside work, including extended sitting or standing, repeated bending and reaching, fine-motor tasks, movement between operatories and other office areas, and lifting supplies or equipment up to 25 pounds. Work includes exposure to blood, saliva, radiation, disinfectants, and dental materials, with required safety protocols and protective equipment.

Requirements

1 to 2+ years of chairside dental assisting experience.
Experience presenting treatment plans and discussing financial arrangements with patients.
Experience scheduling treatment chairside, confirming appointments, and managing a provider schedule.
Working knowledge of dental insurance and procedure terminology.
Radiography certification or applicable state-required credentials: NC DA II, SC, or VA.
Current CPR/BLS, or willingness to obtain it.
Ability to perform the physical requirements of chairside work, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Reliable, predictable, and punctual attendance for the full scheduled shift.
Ability to remain engaged and focused on patients during care.
Positive, professional attitude and willingness to take feedback.
Team-first approach and open communication.
Comfort discussing costs clearly and confidently.
Ability to maintain professional grooming, hygiene, and clean scrubs each shift.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Dentrix Ascend practice management software.

Responsibilities

Assist the dentist chairside across general and restorative procedures.
Take radiographs and impressions, and chart accurately.
Set up, break down, and turn over operatories on schedule.
Sterilize instruments and follow OSHA and infection control standards.
Present treatment plans and explain the doctor’s recommendations in plain language.
Discuss fees, insurance estimates, and payment or financing options with patients.
Schedule patients’ next visits while they are still in the chair.
Confirm upcoming appointments by phone and text to help reduce no-shows.
Fill openings and cancellations, and follow up on unscheduled treatment.
Coordinate handoffs with the front desk.
Support teammates wherever needed during the day.