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In this article, we are going to talk about the role a job description has for both dental assistants and dental offices looking to hire dental assistants. 

We will also provide two examples and templates of job descriptions for dental assistants. You may also want to take a look at these 11 dental assistant job posting examples.

Let's get started . . . 

Dental Assistant Job Description

Job descriptions are essential for dental offices looking to hire a dental assistant and for dental assistants looking for a permanent position. 

Why? 

Let's find out. . . 

Why a Job Description Matters for Dental Assistants? 

Job descriptions may be a dental assistant's first point of contact with a potential dental office. 

As a result, dental assistant job descriptions are essential to assistants because assistants read job descriptions when deciding which positions to apply for.

What might a dental assistant look for in a job description? 

What questions might they be asking themselves when considering a new job? 

As part of the screening process, dental assistant's may ask the following six questions:

Here are a few to think about. . . 

Does the office provide :

1. Pay: What is the salary range that the assistant is looking for?
2. Culture: What is the assistant looking for in an office culture?
3. Benefits: Does the office provide the benefits that the a seeks?
4. Schedule: Does the position offer hours accommodating the dental assistant's preferred schedule?
5. Skills: Do the assistant skills match what the office is seeking?
6. Experience: Do the assistant skills match what the office is looking for?

Why a Dental Assistant Job Description Matters for Dental Offices 

Job descriptions for dental assistants and what is included in the job description matter to the dental office who is looking to hire because a dental assistant job description is a dental office's point of contact to potential candidates. 

As a dental office, the job description you put out into the world about a dental assistant position needs to be written with the following question in mind: What type of dental assistant candidates are we looking to attract? 

This is very important to consider, as there are many education and experience levels that a dental assistant may have. As a dental office you may want to ask as you go through the job description process: 

•  Are we willing to hire a dental assistant with no experience and provide training? 
• What about a dental assistant who has had training? 
• What kind of training do you want them to have? 
• Are we open to hiring a new dental assistant training program graduate?

Every dental assistant job description needs to have the following included to provide prospective applicants the necessary information to decide if what you have to offer is what they are looking for: 

• Abilities for working as a dental assistant at your office should be specified 
• Necessary prerequisites
• Skills 
• Responsibilities  
• What your office offers (work environment, benefits, perks, compensation range) 

Here are a few to consider when writing a job description for a dental assistant or looking for a position as a dental assistant . . . 

What are the Skills of a Dental Assistant:

• Experience: Experience with a variety of computer duties
• Organization: Must have strong organizational skills.
• Decision making: Need to have strong decision-making skills
• Attentiveness: Attentive and quickly follow through on instructions.
• Communication: Excellent communication skills, both written and spoken
• Professionalism: Professional appearance and demeanor regularly
• Patient care: Capable of providing excellent patient care

What are the Duties of a Dental Assistant:

• Preparation: Getting patients ready for dental procedures.
• Sterilization: Sterilizing and sanitizing equipment, setting up instrument trays, preparing supplies, and assisting with dental operations.
• Emergencies: When necessary, assist dentists in managing medical and dental emergencies.
• Assisting: When necessary, assisting dental hygienists with operations.
• Medical records: Keeping treatment information in the patient's medical records.
• Following: Following the dentist's instructions for postoperative care.
• Maintenance: Dental equipment maintenance.
• Maintaining: Maintaining dental equipment inventory and ordering dental supplies.

Dental Assistant Job Description Template and Example #1 

We are looking for a dental assistant for our busy dental practice. You'll assist with patient preparation, sterilization of tools, room setup, and other dental assisting duties. You should have a dental x-ray certification and give excellent patient care to succeed in this position.

In addition, you'll work directly with dental hygienists and dentists to treat patients, as well as execute office management tasks and educate patients on appropriate oral hygiene.

Dental Assistant Job Description Template and Example #2 

What Are We Looking For: 

Currently, we have the opportunity to add another positive, driven, patient-centric individual to our dental team located in[city]. 

About Our Office:

We are firm believers that each team member adds value to their role by honing their skills and knowledge. We are looking for a dental assistant committed to excellence in their actions, words, and intentions; who strives to be the best version of themselves while constantly growing and innovating to serve our patients better.

Our dental team members are stewards of our practice's positive reputation in the community; they support and empower one another and recognize the value of celebrating one another's victories.

We are a modern, growth-oriented dental practice that provides exceptional dental care, has an excellent work culture, and strives to leave a positive footprint in our community. Our office also provides our patients with cutting-edge technology. We use advanced digital technology such as iTero, and digital radiographs.

What We Offer:

• A work environment that is positive, meaningful, challenging, and supportive.
• Long-term career mobility with opportunities for growth and development
• A competitive salary is combined with a comprehensive benefits package that includes family dental care, paid time off, and position-specific incentive plans
• A chance to serve amazing patients and participate in community outreach events
• A work schedule that is convenient for personal and professional development
• A dental practice that is technologically advanced and focused on growth

Experience Needed:

• Working knowledge of dental procedures and terminology.
• Knowledgeable about and proficient with Dentrix.
• X-Ray certification
• CPR

Skills Required:

• Excellent communication skills
• Patient-focused mindset
• Attention to detail and strong organization skills
• Ability to facilitate patient flow throughout the office
• A team-player
• Reliable and honest

Interested? We'd love to hear from you!

Please submit three things:

1. Cover letter 
2. Resume with Work History 
3. References

More Information 

Looking for more information? Check out these other articles: 

Job seekers: 28 Arizona Staffing Agencies 

Dental offices looking to hire: Benefits Of Choosing A Dental Staffing Agency For Your Business. 

 

 

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