Pediatric Dental Assistant

About the Role:

The Pediatric Dental Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting dentists in delivering high-quality oral healthcare specifically tailored for children. This position involves preparing treatment rooms, assisting during dental procedures, and ensuring a comforting environment to alleviate the anxiety often experienced by young patients. The assistant will be responsible for managing patient records, sterilizing instruments, and educating both children and their parents on proper dental hygiene practices. By combining clinical support with compassionate care, the Pediatric Dental Assistant helps facilitate efficient and effective dental treatments that promote long-term oral health in pediatric patients. Ultimately, this role contributes significantly to the overall patient experience and the smooth operation of the pediatric dental practice.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Completion of an accredited dental assistant training program.
• Certification as a Dental Assistant (CDA), (Infection Control, Radiation Cert., California Dental Practice Act.)
• Coronal and Sealant certificate
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
• Experience working with pediatric patients in a dental or healthcare setting.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Additional certification in pediatric dental assisting or related specialty.
• Experience with dental practice management software.
• Strong knowledge of child psychology and behavior management techniques.
• Bilingual abilities, especially in Spanish or other commonly spoken languages in the community.
• Previous experience in a fast-paced pediatric dental office.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare and organize dental instruments and materials required for pediatric dental procedures.
• Assist the dentist during examinations and treatments by providing necessary tools and support.
• Ensure the comfort and safety of child patients by creating a friendly and reassuring environment.
• Maintain accurate patient records, including treatment details and medical histories.
• Sterilize and disinfect dental equipment and treatment areas following strict infection control protocols.
• Educate children and their caregivers on oral hygiene techniques and preventive dental care.
• Schedule patient appointments and manage front desk activities as needed to support clinic operations.
• Monitor and maintain inventory of dental supplies to ensure availability for daily procedures.

Skills:

The Pediatric Dental Assistant utilizes clinical skills daily to prepare treatment rooms and assist dentists efficiently during procedures, ensuring patient safety and comfort. Strong communication skills are essential for explaining dental care instructions to children and their parents in an understandable and reassuring manner. Organizational skills are applied to maintain accurate patient records and manage appointment scheduling, contributing to smooth clinic operations. Knowledge of infection control protocols is critical to sterilize instruments and maintain a hygienic environment, protecting patients and staff. Additionally, interpersonal skills help build trust with young patients, reducing their anxiety and fostering a positive dental experience.

Benefits: 

• Medical
• dental
• vision
• 401k (company matches)
• FMLA, PTO, Holiday, Sick time
• other incentives