Dental Assistant

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

Salary : $17 - $21