What are the responsibilities and job description for the Dental Assistant position at Frerichs Dental?
Dental Assistant – Full-Time (32 hrs/wk, Mon–Thu)
Practice: Frerichs Dental
Location: Champaign, IL
About Us
At Frerichs Dental, dentistry is more than just fixing teeth—it is about helping our friends and neighbors lead happier, healthier lives. Located in Champaign, our family-friendly practice focuses heavily on patient care, custom comfort, and education.
We are seeking a reliable, detail-oriented Dental Assistant with a warm and empathetic personality to join our dedicated team. We are looking for the right candidate who brings a positive attitude, an eagerness to learn, and a passion for patient comfort. You will perform basic supportive dental procedures under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist.
Key Responsibilities & Duties
Clinical & Chairside Assistance
- Provide chairside assistance during a variety of general and cosmetic procedures (e.g., fillings, CEREC® same-day crowns, implants, root canals, and extractions).
- Set up and break down treatment rooms, ensuring all instruments are organized and ready before patient arrival.
- Operate suction devices and hand instruments smoothly during clinical procedures.
- Operate dental X-ray equipment safely to perform digital radiographs and diagnostic imaging.
- Mix dental materials (e.g., cements, impression materials) and pour/trim diagnostic models.
Clinical Flow & Supply Logistics
- Supply Rotation: Ensure all operatories are fully stocked ahead of scheduled procedures. Track material expiration dates and maintain a clean central inventory hub.
- Procurement Management: Order, receive, and unpack dental and office supplies. Verify shipments against invoices, resolve vendor discrepancies, and organize items.
- Lab Case Management: Manage the timely shipment of outgoing dental laboratory cases and track incoming cases to ensure arrival ahead of appointments.
Patient Care, Comfort & Education
- Welcome and prepare patients for treatment, using an approachable and friendly demeanor to ease their nerves.
- Support patient comfort amenities (such as utilizing gravity blankets, pillows, or stress balls) to ensure anxious patients feel safe and relaxed.
- Educate patients on proper oral hygiene strategies, postoperative care instructions, and preventative practices.
- Maintain composure and a gentle tone when handling difficult patient reactions.
Compliance, Collaboration & Administration
- Sterilize and disinfect dental instruments and equipment in strict compliance with safety, sanitation, and privacy guidelines (OSHA/infection control protocols).
- Proactive Problem Solving: Demonstrate a high level of initiative by anticipating clinical and administrative needs, staying one step ahead of the daily schedule, and solving potential bottlenecks.
- Collaborate enthusiastically with Dr. Frerichs, our doctor assistants, our hygienists, and front-desk staff to maintain an efficient, positive team environment.
- Accurately record treatment notes and update electronic patient charts.
- Assist front-office operations as needed, including scheduling appointments and answering phone calls.
Ideal Personality Profile & Soft Skills
- Eagerness to Learn: Highly motivated to learn new clinical technical skills, dental terminology, and procedural flows.
- High Empathy & Compassion: Naturally senses patient discomfort or anxiety and works proactively to make them feel safe and cared for.
- Positive, Upbeat Energy: Brings a welcoming smile and optimistic attitude to the office every day, fostering a pleasant environment for both patients and coworkers.
- Strong Emotional Intelligence: Picks up on non-verbal cues from patients who may be too nervous or unable to speak during a procedure.
- Adaptable Team Player: Thrives in a fast-paced environment, switches tasks easily when priorities change, and maintains a "how can I help?" mindset.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Experience: Prior dental assisting experience and knowledge is strongly preferred.
- Technical Skills: Basic computer literacy to learn dental practice management software and digital charting.
How to Apply
Please submit your resume along with a brief message explaining why you are interested in a career in dental assisting with Frerichs Dental.
- Send your application to: Attn: Bonnie at frerichsdental@gmail.com
- Please note: To keep our phone lines open for patient care, we strictly request no phone calls to our office regarding this position.
Pay: From $22.00 per hour
Expected hours: 32.0 per week
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- On-the-job training
- Paid sick time
- Paid time off
- Paid training
- Retirement plan
- Uniform allowance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $22