Dental Assistant

Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry•Shallotte, NC

17d•Onsite

About The Position

We are looking for an experienced chairside Dental Assistant who is reliable, takes pride in their work, and helps patients and teammates have a better day. This hands-on, in-person role includes assisting with clinical procedures as well as helping patients understand treatment, costs, and next steps. The offices maintain full schedules, and each clinical team member is expected to contribute to patient care and schedule management. The Dental Assistant supports the dentist during general and restorative procedures, takes radiographs and impressions, maintains accurate charts, and prepares and turns over operatories. The role also includes presenting treatment plans, discussing fees and payment options, scheduling follow-up care chairside, confirming appointments, filling schedule openings, and coordinating with the front desk. This position requires dependable, punctual attendance for the full scheduled shift; a positive, professional, team-oriented approach; comfort discussing financial arrangements; and professional presentation. Physical requirements include prolonged chairside positioning, repeated bending and reaching, fine motor tasks, close-range vision, hearing and speaking while working around equipment noise, moving between office areas, and lifting supplies or equipment up to 25 pounds. The work involves exposure to blood, saliva, radiation, disinfectants, and dental materials, with required protective equipment and safety protocols. The hiring process includes a phone screen and an in-office working interview. Prior employers are contacted for references, including questions about attendance, dependability, and teamwork. Candidates should provide at least two supervisor references. Offers are contingent on satisfactory reference and background checks. New team members complete a 90-day introductory period.

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.
Completion of a North Carolina Board-approved radiology course, or ability to complete it before starting.
Reliability and regular, predictable, on-time attendance for the full scheduled shift.
Ability to work hands-on and in person, remain focused on patient care, and stay off the phone during care.
Positive and professional attitude, ability to take feedback, and respectful treatment of patients and coworkers.
Team-first approach, open communication, and willingness to help without being asked.
Comfort discussing costs clearly and confidently without pressuring patients or avoiding the conversation.
Ownership of scheduling, including scheduling from the chair, confirming appointments, and addressing open slots or patients leaving without an appointment.
Professional hygiene, grooming, and clean scrubs every shift.
Ability to perform the physical requirements of chairside work, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Ability to sit or stand for extended periods, often 4 or more hours at a time, in a chairside position.
Ability to bend, lean, twist, and reach over patients repeatedly throughout the day.
Ability to use both hands with fine motor control and a steady grip.
Ability to perform repetitive hand, wrist, and arm movements throughout procedures.
Ability to see clearly at close range, including small details, depth, and color.
Ability to hear and respond to the dentist and patients while wearing a mask and working around equipment noise.
Ability to speak clearly to instruct patients and explain treatment.
Ability to lift, carry, and move supplies and equipment up to 25 pounds.
Ability to move quickly between operatories, sterilization, and the front office throughout the shift.
Ability to wear required protective equipment for the full shift.
Ability to maintain hygiene and appearance standards appropriate for close patient contact, including avoiding strong odors and fragrances.
Ability to work with exposure to blood, saliva, radiation, disinfectants, and dental materials while following safety protocols.

Nice To Haves

North Carolina Dental Assistant II credential.
Current CPR/BLS, or willingness to obtain it.
Experience with Denticon 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 the patient's next visit before they leave.
Confirm upcoming appointments by phone and text.
Fill openings and cancellations, and follow up on unscheduled treatment.
Coordinate handoffs with the front desk.
Support teammates wherever needed during the day.