Paid Dental Intern

Comprehensive Community Action•Cranston, RI

About The Position

JOB SUMMARY: The Dental Assistant Intern supports the dental team—including dentists and dental hygienists—by assisting with hands-on patient care and learning essential skills in a clinical setting. This role provides direct exposure to daily operations in a dental practice, including chairside assisting, sterilization, instrument preparation, and maintaining a safe and organized treatment environment. This internship is designed to help individuals gain practical experience as they work toward a future in dental assisting. Work Schedule Expectations Full-time or part-time hours as determined by the Director Flexibility in scheduling required to meet patient and clinic demands

Requirements

High school diploma or GED
Enrollment in or completion of a dental assisting program
Strong oral and written communication skills in English
Current BLS certification
Ability to provide/maintain required immunizations or vaccinations
Successful completion of all background checks

Nice To Haves

Spanish-speaking ability preferred or required depending on location
X-Ray Certification, preferred

Responsibilities

Assist patients with simple questions, directions, and comfort measures under direct supervision
Maintain a welcoming, professional demeanor with all patients
Serve as chairside assistant to the dentist or dental hygienist during procedures under direct supervision
Prepare operatories for treatment following clinic protocols
Expose and process radiographs (in accordance with state laws and training) under direct supervision
Perform assigned tasks and procedures as delegated by supervising dentists within legal scope under direct supervision
Monitor patient flow and support providers to ensure efficient operations under direct supervision
Follow all sterilization and disinfection protocols for instruments and equipment under direct supervision
Properly dispose of regulated waste according to policy and law under direct supervision
Maintain clean, organized clinical spaces in compliance with infection control standards under direct supervision
Use required Personal Protective Equipment and follow Universal Precautions under direct supervision
Maintain operatory supplies and assist with inventory tracking under direct supervision
Help ensure dental records are accurately completed, filed, and updated under direct supervision
Assist with chart pulling, filing, and organizing patient records under direct supervision
Make or receive clinic-related phone calls under staff guidance under direct supervision
Support additional clinical and administrative tasks as time permits under direct supervision
Participate in health promotion and community outreach activities as assigned under direct supervision
Travel between locations when necessary under direct supervision
Perform other tasks assigned by supervisors to support clinic goals under direct supervision
Prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment under direct supervision