Dental Assistant - Oral Surgery Clinic

Vanderbilt University Medical Center•Nashville, TN

About The Position

The Dental Assistant supports providers and patients throughout the oral surgery experience. Duties include preparing treatment rooms, instruments, and surgical equipment; collecting and documenting patient histories and clinical information; taking dental radiographs and CBCT scans; assisting providers during procedures; maintaining sterilization and infection-control standards; and helping ensure efficient clinic operations. The role assists with preventive, therapeutic, cosmetic, and other dental services, with occasional guidance from a board-certified Oral Surgeon. The ideal candidate is dependable, team-oriented, and committed to exceptional patient care and a positive patient experience. The Oral Surgery Practice provides comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages and collaborates with medical teams to support patients preparing for surgery, cancer treatment, or radiation therapy. The team works within an academic medical center and serves community members and professional athletes, using resources such as the My Health at Vanderbilt patient portal to support convenient, coordinated care. The position is scheduled Monday through Friday, with a flexible schedule between 7:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. There are no nights, weekends, or holidays. Free parking is available.

Requirements

Tennessee Registered Dental Assistant certification.
Graduate of an approved discipline-specific program.
Relevant work experience; the listed experience level is less than one year.
Basic proficiency in sterilization preparation, patient documentation, dental terminology, and patient exam room care.

Responsibilities

Seat patients and prepare them for visits, procedures, and examinations.
Obtain and document medical histories, vital signs, allergies, pain assessments, and other clinical information.
Prepare treatment rooms, instruments, and surgical equipment.
Take CBCT scans and dental radiographs.
Assist providers during procedures, including suctioning and supporting patients.
Turn over procedure rooms between patients.
Clean, sterilize, and maintain instruments according to infection-control standards.
Stock and organize supplies.
Help keep appointments on schedule.
Escort patients following sedation procedures.
Provide patients with instructions.
Maintain and clean equipment.
Collaborate with providers, nurses, and other team members to deliver a positive patient experience.
Perform other duties as assigned.