Dental Assistant

Partnership Health Center•Missoula, MT

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Performs dental assistant duties in a dental clinic for Partnership Health Center (PHC) and satellite dental clinic locations. The position supports dentists and dental hygienists in providing patient services, assists with clinic operations and records, and provides patient education. The role works under the supervision of the Dental Director, Dental Hygienist Supervisor, or designee, and has no supervisory responsibilities. It involves frequent contact with dental patients, health care providers, and other employees. The position is not eligible for remote work and may require travel to satellite clinic locations. Work is performed walking or standing much of the time and may include regular nights and weekends, including Saturday clinic. The employee may handle supply boxes weighing up to 30 pounds and may be exposed to radiation, biohazards such as blood and disinfectant chemicals, and communicable diseases. Applicants must complete all sections of the online application and submit a cover letter, resume, copies of RHS and BLS certifications, a Dental Assistant program completion certificate if applicable, and a valid Montana driver’s license. The cover letter should state whether the applicant has dental experience. Incomplete applications will be disqualified. Complete applications received by November 9, 2026, at 5:00 PM Mountain Time are guaranteed consideration; the position remains open until filled. Applicants without required RHS certification may be considered for a Sterilization Technician position at a reduced rate of pay.

Requirements

High school graduation or GED.
Current Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) certification.
Current Healthcare Professional BLS certification, or ability to obtain it within 90 days of hire.
Knowledge of dental office and chair-side assisting practices, procedures, and techniques.
Knowledge of dental terminology and charting practices.
Knowledge of dental health promotion and prevention principles and practices.
Knowledge of department policies and procedures.
Basic knowledge of Federal and OSHA regulations for dental clinics.
Knowledge of HIPAA compliance principles and practices and PHC Corporate Compliance Guidelines.
Skill in using dental tools and equipment, including x-ray equipment.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with diverse individuals and groups.
Ability to communicate effectively in English, orally and in writing, with patients and coworkers.
Ability to respect and maintain confidentiality.
Ability to work effectively in a dynamic clinic environment and handle multiple demands and responsibilities.
Ability to motivate patients to maintain proper dental care.
Ability to prepare and maintain charts, record logs, and reports.
Requires immunizations or proof of immunity to certain infectious diseases and a TB test.
Requires passing a criminal background check, including fingerprinting.
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Nice To Haves

Completion of a Dental Assistant training program is desired.
Experience working as a Dental Assistant is desired.

Responsibilities

Seat patients, review medical histories, and prepare patients for dental work.
Arrange appropriate dental instruments and materials for patient treatment.
Assist dentists and dental hygienists with patient services, including placing or removing a rubber dam; applying topical drugs as prescribed by the dentist; placing or removing celluloid, plastic, or metallic strips between teeth; and providing suction or evacuation as needed.
Assist with taking and developing x-ray films.
Provide appropriate patient education regarding treatment rendered.
Sterilize, clean, and maintain dental instruments and equipment.
Assist with scheduling patient appointments.
Assist with maintaining dental supply inventories.
Assist with maintaining patient charts, progress notes, and records.
Perform related work as required or directed.