CERTIFIED DENTAL ASSISTANT

Molokai Community Health Center (MCHC)
Job Opening: Certified Dental Assistant
Location: Kaunakakai, Molokai, Hawaii
Job Type: Full-Time | Non-Exempt

Job Summary:

The Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) plays a vital role in supporting dental providers and ensuring high-quality patient care. This position assists with clinical procedures, maintains infection control standards, prepares treatment rooms, and supports positive patient experiences in a community health setting. The CDA provides chairside support to dentists and hygienists in the delivery of oral health services, ensuring a smooth and efficient workflow in the dental clinic while providing compassionate, quality care and promoting positive patient experiences in a culturally respectful environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist dentists during a variety of treatment procedures including restorative, preventive, and surgical care.
• Prepare patients for treatment, ensuring comfort and safety throughout their visit.
• Sterilize and disinfect instruments and operatory areas according to infection control protocols.
• Take dental radiographs (x-rays) as prescribed.
• Maintain dental supplies and inventory; prepare operatory trays for procedures.
• Record patient information and treatment notes accurately in the dental electronic health record (EHR).
• Provide post-operative and oral hygiene instructions to patients under the guidance of the dental team.
• Support front office functions as needed, such as scheduling, check-in/out, and patient communication.
• Uphold strict confidentiality and compliance with HIPAA regulations and OSHA safety standards.
• Participate in team huddles, quality improvement activities, outreach, and staff meetings.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred
• Completion of an accredited Dental Assistant training program preferred
• Current Hawaii Dental Assistant Certification (CDA)
• Current CPR/BLS certification required (or willingness to obtain within 30 days of hire)
• At least 3-5 years of dental assisting experience preferred, especially in a community or public health setting
• Comfortable with most procedures, good chairside rhythm, solid infection control and instruments knowledge.
• Can anticipate dentist needs, train others, work independently, strong communication with patients.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Comfort working with a diverse patient population, including children and families
• Familiarity with dental EHR systems (e.g., Dentrix, Athena Dental) is a plus

Benefits:

• Competitive hourly wage based on experience and certification
• Health, dental, and vision insurance; AirMed Care
• Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, and holidays)
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match at one year employment
• Professional development opportunities
• Supportive, mission-driven work environment

Molokai Community Health Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a proud advocate for community-based, patient-centered care.