Dental Assistant Job Description Template
Use this Dental Assistant job description template to advertise the open roles for free using Longlist.io. You can use this template as a starting point, modify the requirements according the needs of your organization or the client you are hiring for.
Job Brief
We are looking for a competent dental assistant who will make the dentist’s office more efficient and pleasant for patients. You’ll ensure excellent customer service and lift administrative and basic dental tasks off the dentist’s shoulders.
Dental assistants should be well-organized with great attention to detail. You should be able to follow instructions and respect dental office regulations. We want you to be skilled in providing direct or indirect patient care and able to make office procedures as smooth as possible.
Responsibilities
- Welcome customers in the dental office
- Prepare customers for treatments or checkups ensuring their comfort
- Select and set up instruments, equipment and material needed
- Sterilize instruments according to regulations
- Assist the dentist through 4-handed dentistry
- Undertake lab tasks as instructed
- Provide oral hygiene and post-operative care instructions
- Keep the dental room clean and well-stocked
- Schedule appointments
- Maintain accurate patient records and assist with payment procedures
Requirements
- Proven experience as dental assistant
- Knowledge of dental instruments and sterilization methods
- Understanding of health & safety regulations
- Ability to perform regulated non-surgical tasks like coronal polishing is a plus
- Good computer skills
- Excellent communication and people skills
- Attention to detail
- Well-organized and reliable
- High school diploma; graduating from dental assistant school is preferred
- Additional certification or training is an asset (e.g. EFDA)
What does Dental Assistant do?
A dental assistant's daily responsibilities may include:
- Assisting the dentist during dental procedures, such as preparing the treatment area, passing instruments, and handling materials.
- Taking and developing dental radiographs (X-rays) under the supervision of the dentist.
- Sterilizing and disinfecting dental instruments and equipment.
- Preparing patients for dental procedures, including seating them in the treatment area, taking their medical history, and explaining the procedures.
- Providing support and reassurance to patients during dental procedures, ensuring their comfort and safety.
- Assisting with dental laboratory procedures, such as pouring impressions, trimming and polishing dental appliances, and fabricating temporary crowns.
- Managing patient records, including updating dental charts, scheduling appointments, and maintaining documentation of treatments.
- Educating patients on proper oral hygiene techniques and providing post-treatment instructions.
- Assisting with office management duties, such as answering phones, processing payments, and ordering dental supplies.
- Adhering to infection control and safety protocols to maintain a clean and safe dental environment.
It's important to note that the specific tasks may vary depending on the dental practice and the state regulations governing dental assistants.