Dental/Oral Surgery Assistant

U.S. Oral Surgery Management•Encino, CA

About The Position

The Dental Assistant – Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery supports surgeons in providing safe, efficient, and compassionate care in a patient-centered oral surgery practice. The role assists during consultations and surgical procedures, supports patients throughout treatment, and helps maintain an organized clinical environment. The position involves assisting with extractions, wisdom tooth removal, dental implant placement, and bone grafting; preparing patients and treatment areas; monitoring patients during IV sedation and anesthesia according to office protocols; providing pre- and post-operative instructions; obtaining radiographs; documenting care; maintaining equipment; and following safety and infection-control policies. The assistant also coordinates required medical documentation, protects confidential information, collaborates with the clinical team, and may take on additional clinical responsibilities or special projects as needed.

Requirements

At least 1 year of dental assisting experience.
Experience assisting with tooth extractions, including wisdom teeth.
Experience assisting with dental implant procedures.
Experience assisting with bone grafting procedures.
Experience with oral surgery setup and breakdown.
Experience with sterilization and instrument processing.
Experience obtaining dental radiographs (X-rays).
Experience monitoring patients during IV sedation and following anesthesia protocols.
Strong patient-care and interpersonal skills.
Clear and professional verbal communication skills.
Strong attention to detail and ability to work efficiently.
Ability to follow clinical protocols, safety procedures, and office policies.
Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
Ability to remain attentive and composed in a surgical environment.
Flexibility to adapt to changing responsibilities and schedules.
Current Basic Life Support (BLS)/CPR certification.
California Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) license or completion of a Dental Board of California–approved 8-hour Infection Control course.
Hepatitis B vaccination and/or documented immunity/titer as required by applicable practice policies and regulations.
TB screening/testing as required by applicable practice policies and regulations.

Nice To Haves

At least 2 years of dental assisting experience.
Previous experience working as an Oral Surgery Assistant.
Experience assisting with dental implant procedures and systems such as Nobel Biocare, DTX, and Straumann.
OMSA and/or DAANCE certification.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Assisting or Dental Assistant certification.

Responsibilities

Assist the surgeon during oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures, including tooth extractions, wisdom tooth removal, dental implant placement, and bone grafting.
Seat and prepare patients for consultations and surgical procedures; obtain and document vital signs; and confirm consent forms and treatment documentation are complete.
Assist with and maintain competency in patient monitoring during IV sedation and anesthesia in accordance with office protocols.
Provide and reinforce pre-operative and post-operative instructions and the surgeon’s recommendations for surgical care and recovery.
Assist in obtaining medical clearances and other necessary documentation before treatment.
Obtain diagnostic dental radiographs using appropriate exposure techniques, patient positioning, and radiation-safety procedures.
Accurately document patient information, treatment, and clinical notes in accordance with practice standards.
Prepare operatories, surgical equipment, instruments, and materials before procedures and complete proper breakdown afterward.
Maintain clinical and surgical equipment in good working condition.
Follow OSHA, radiation-safety, infection-control, and office safety policies and procedures.
Promote patient comfort, address concerns professionally, and support a positive patient experience.
Maintain professional, cooperative relationships with surgeons, patients, and team members; communicate effectively and contribute to problem-solving.
Protect patient and practice information and maintain confidentiality.
Assist with special projects and other clinical responsibilities as needed.