Ortho Dental Assistant

Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry•Selma, NC

10d•Onsite

About The Position

We are looking for an experienced chairside Ortho Dental Assistant who is dependable, takes pride in their work, and contributes to a positive experience for patients and teammates. This hands-on, in-person role provides chairside support during orthodontic procedures and extends beyond clinical care to helping patients understand treatment recommendations and costs, arranging follow-up visits, and keeping the provider’s schedule full. The clinical team works with full schedules, and each team member plays an important role throughout the day. The position requires reliable, on-time attendance for the full scheduled shift, focused engagement during patient care, professionalism, a team-first attitude, and comfort discussing fees and financial options. Candidates must be able to perform the physical requirements of chairside work, with or without reasonable accommodation. The hiring process includes a phone screen and an in-office working interview. The employer contacts prior employers for references, including questions about attendance, dependability, and teamwork; applicants should be ready to 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

1–3+ 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.
Radiography certification or state-required credentials for North Carolina.
Current CPR/BLS certification, or willingness to obtain it.
Ability to perform chairside work’s physical requirements with or without reasonable accommodation.
Reliable, predictable, on-time attendance for the full scheduled shift.
Ability to remain engaged and focused on patients during in-person care.
Positive, professional attitude and ability to accept feedback and treat patients and coworkers respectfully.
Team-first approach, including open communication and willingness to help without being asked.
Comfort discussing costs clearly and confidently.
Ability to take ownership of scheduling, appointment confirmation, and open schedule slots.
Ability to maintain personal hygiene, grooming, and clean scrubs each shift.
Ability to sit or stand for extended periods, often four or more hours at a time.
Ability to bend, lean, twist, and reach over patients repeatedly throughout the day.
Fine motor control and steady grip to pass instruments, suction, mix materials, and take impressions.
Ability to perform repetitive hand, wrist, and arm movements for the duration of procedures.
Close-range vision, including the ability to see 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 give instructions and explain treatment.
Ability to lift, carry, and move supplies and equipment weighing up to 25 pounds.
Ability to move quickly between operatories, sterilization, and the front office throughout the shift.
Ability to wear required protective equipment, including a mask, gloves, eyewear, and gown, for the full shift.
Ability to maintain professional appearance and personal hygiene 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.
Provide at least two supervisor references.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Denticon practice management software.

Responsibilities

Assist the orthodontist chairside during orthodontic procedures, providing efficient clinical support and a positive patient experience.
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 the chair.
Confirm upcoming appointments by phone and text to help keep the schedule full and reduce no-shows.
Fill openings and cancellations, and follow up on unscheduled treatment.
Coordinate patient handoffs with the front desk.
Support teammates wherever needed during the day.