Lead Dental Assistant
About The Position
The Lead Dental Assistant supports the daily clinical operations of a general dentistry practice and serves as the primary point of contact for the dental assisting team. The role combines chairside assisting with back-office coordination, staff support and training, inventory management, oversight of dental lab cases and invoicing, and compliance with clinical and safety standards. The Lead Dental Assistant helps maintain an efficient, organized, and patient-focused clinical environment. The position includes assisting the dentist during general dental procedures, preparing treatment rooms, taking and processing digital X-rays and intraoral photographs, and maintaining accurate clinical documentation. It also involves coordinating the assisting team’s daily workflows and schedules, supporting staff development, supervising sterilization and disinfection, monitoring supplies and equipment, and managing lab cases and associated invoices. The work takes place in a clinical dental office. Frequent standing, walking, and use of hands are required, and PPE must be used in accordance with infection control policies. Flexible hours may be required, including occasional evenings or weekends.
Requirements
- At least 3–5 years of dental assisting experience.
- Current CPR/BLS certification.
- Proficiency in dental software and digital radiography.
- In-depth knowledge of dental procedures, sterilization techniques, and infection control protocols.
- Excellent leadership, organizational, and time-management skills.
- Strong interpersonal and communication abilities.
- Attention to detail, particularly in lab case tracking and invoice accuracy.
- Ability to work calmly and efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
Nice To Haves
- At least 1 year of experience in a leadership role.
Responsibilities
- Assist the dentist chairside during exams, fillings, crowns, extractions, impressions, and other general dental procedures.
- Prepare treatment rooms with the required instruments, materials, and equipment.
- Take and process digital X-rays and intraoral photographs.
- Maintain accurate clinical documentation and charting in the dental software system.
- Oversee the daily duties and workflows of the dental assisting team.
- Train, mentor, and support new and current dental assistants.
- Create and maintain assistant schedules to ensure appropriate coverage.
- Promote teamwork, accountability, and a patient-centered approach within the clinical team.
- Maintain adherence to OSHA, HIPAA, and infection control protocols.
- Supervise instrument sterilization and operatory disinfection processes.
- Conduct regular compliance checks and promptly address deficiencies.
- Monitor clinical supply levels and order materials and instruments as needed.
- Maintain supply organization systems and track usage trends.
- Coordinate equipment maintenance and repair with vendors or internal contacts.
- Manage and track outgoing and incoming dental lab cases, including crowns, dentures, and night guards.
- Communicate with dental labs about case details, due dates, and adjustments.
- Ensure lab cases are delivered on time and meet clinical standards before patient appointments.
- Maintain accurate logs of lab work and reconcile associated lab invoices.
- Collaborate with the front office to support timely and accurate billing for lab-related services.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
No Education Listed
