Dental Assistant

The Daily Planet • Richmond, VA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The full-time Dental Assistant plays a critical role in supporting dental professionals to deliver high-quality patient care within a dental practice. This position involves preparing patients for dental procedures, assisting the dentist during treatments, and ensuring that all instruments and equipment are properly sterilized and maintained. The Dental Assistant also manages patient records and appointment scheduling, contributing to the smooth operation of the dental office. Compassion and effective communication are essential, as the role requires interacting with patients of diverse backgrounds and alleviating their concerns. Ultimately, the Dental Assistant helps create a safe, efficient, and welcoming environment that promotes excellent dental health outcomes.

Requirements

• Completion of a Dental Assisting program.
• Proficiency in dental terminology and basic dental care techniques.
• Experience with dental practice management software.
• Dental Assisting and Dental Terminology skills are essential for accurately supporting dental procedures and communicating effectively with the dental team.
• Sterilization and Infection Control skills ensure a safe environment by preventing cross-contamination and maintaining compliance with health regulations.
• Proficiency in Dentrix software facilitates efficient patient record management and appointment scheduling, streamlining office operations.
• Compassion and patient care skills are applied daily to provide comfort and reassurance to patients, enhancing their overall experience.
• Knowledge of proper body motion techniques helps the Dental Assistant perform tasks ergonomically, reducing fatigue and injury risk during repetitive activities.

Nice To Haves

• Valid x-ray certification.
• Certification in Infection Control and Sterilization procedures.
• Previous experience working as a Dental Assistant in a clinical setting.
• Additional certifications such as CPR and First Aid.
• Familiarity with advanced dental procedures and technologies.
• Strong interpersonal skills with a focus on patient compassion and care.

Responsibilities

• Prepare treatment rooms and dental instruments for patient procedures, ensuring all equipment is sterilized and infection control protocols are followed.
• Assist the dentist during examinations and dental procedures by handing instruments, managing suction devices, and providing patient comfort.
• Maintain accurate patient records using dental software such as Dentrix, including documenting treatment details and updating medical histories.
• Educate patients on oral hygiene practices and post-treatment care instructions to support their dental health.
• Manage appointment scheduling, patient check-in and check-out processes, and coordinate with other dental staff to optimize workflow.

Benefits

• Competitive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match
• 4–6 weeks of paid time off based on years of service
• 8 paid holidays and paid site-closure days
• Employer-paid short-term disability and life insurance with optional supplemental coverage for eligible dependents
• Continuing education (CEU) allowance for applicable roles
• National Health Service Corps (NHSC) loan repayment program (for select positions)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree