Dental Assistant

Job Type: Full-time
Location: Helena, MT 59601 (In Person)

Position Summary

We are seeking a compassionate, organized, and detail-oriented Dental Assistant to join our team. The Dental Assistant plays a vital role in delivering exceptional patient care by assisting the dentist during clinical procedures, maintaining efficient clinical operations, and creating a positive experience for every patient and family. This position requires excellent communication skills, strong clinical knowledge, and a commitment to providing high-quality pediatric dental care while maintaining the highest standards of infection control and patient safety.

Essential Responsibilities:

Patient Care

Welcome patients and families in a friendly, professional manner while preparing them for treatment.
Review, update, and accurately document dental, medical, and medication histories.
Obtain high-quality dental radiographs in accordance with established protocols.
Educate patients and parents on proper oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, fluoride use, and nutritional counseling.
Polish and floss teeth as permitted by state regulations.
Apply fluoride treatments, sealants, and topical anesthetics as directed by the dentist.
Assist the dentist during examinations and a variety of dental procedures by anticipating clinical needs, maintaining clear visibility through suctioning, and efficiently passing instruments.
Provide patients and families with postoperative care instructions as directed by the dentist.
Record clinical findings and treatment information accurately in the electronic dental record.
Maintain patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and practice policies.

Clinical Support

Prepare operatories, treatment rooms, instruments, and materials before each procedure.
Clean, disinfect, and sterilize instruments while ensuring compliance with infection control and OSHA standards.
Maintain operatory readiness between patients to support an efficient clinical schedule.
Participate in daily morning huddles to review the schedule and coordinate patient care.
Assist in creating accurate treatment plans, coordinating insurance benefits, and documenting recommended treatment.
Scan and maintain all required patient documentation within the electronic dental record.
Complete laboratory procedures, including dental impressions and pouring study models.
Demonstrate knowledge of pediatric dental anatomy, growth, and development.

Patient Coordination

Schedule appointments and coordinate follow-up care.
Present treatment plans and review estimated patient financial responsibility with parents or guardians.
Assist families in completing sedation or surgery center paperwork and answer questions regarding treatment recommendations.
Obtain height and weight measurements for patients requiring hospital or surgery center treatment.
Perform basic insurance calculations and communicate effectively with the administrative team regarding referrals, treatment coordination, and scheduling.
Ensure smooth, professional handoffs to the front office following examinations and procedures to promote continuity of care.

Teamwork & Professionalism

Collaborate effectively with dentists, hygienists, assistants, and administrative staff to deliver exceptional patient care.
Support front office operations during slower clinical periods as needed.
Serve as a positive resource for fellow team members by mentoring and assisting with clinical training when appropriate.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe clinical environment.
Demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and a commitment to continuous learning and clinical excellence.
Actively contribute to creating a welcoming, efficient, and patient-focused office culture.

Qualifications

Knowledge of dental procedures, terminology, instrumentation, and infection control practices.
Strong understanding of pediatric dental anatomy and development preferred.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with both children and parents.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
Basic mathematical skills for insurance estimates and treatment planning.
Experience with electronic dental records preferred.
Commitment to maintaining patient confidentiality and delivering exceptional customer service.

Benefits

Employee discount
Paid time off
Profit sharing
Retirement plan

Work Location

In Person
Helena, Montana 59601

Applicants must be able to reliably commute to Helena, MT, or relocate before their start date.

Pay: $17.00 - $21.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k)
401(k) matching
Health insurance
Paid time off

Work Location: In person

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Dental Assistant