Dental Receptionist / Front Desk in Oceanside, CA

Description:

Job Overview

The Dental Receptionist is the first point of contact for patients and plays a key role in delivering an exceptional patient experience. This position is responsible for scheduling, insurance verification, financial communication, and front office support to ensure smooth daily operations and strong office production.

Requirements:

Key Responsibilities

Patient Experience

• Greet and check in patients in a friendly, professional manner
• Answer phones promptly and schedule appointments efficiently
• Confirm upcoming appointments and manage the daily schedule to minimize gaps
• Provide clear communication regarding treatment, policies, and next steps

Insurance & Financial Coordination

• Verify dental insurance benefits and eligibility
• Explain coverage, co-pays, and estimated out-of-pocket costs to patients
• Collect payments at time of service and post transactions accurately
• Assist patients with payment options and financing when needed

Scheduling & Production Support

• Maintain a productive, goal-oriented schedule
• Fill cancellations and openings to support daily production goals
• Coordinate with clinical team to ensure smooth patient flow

Administrative Duties

• Enter and update patient information accurately in practice management software
• Manage incoming and outgoing correspondence
• Maintain patient confidentiality in compliance with HIPAA regulations
• Support office metrics related to production, collections, and patient retention

Qualifications

• Previous dental or medical front office experience preferred
• Knowledge of dental insurance plans (PPO, HMO, Denti-Cal/Medicaid a plus)
• Strong customer service and communication skills
• Comfortable discussing financial information with patients
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
• Experience with dental software (Dentrix, Eaglesoft, Open Dental, etc.) preferred

Key Skills & Traits

• Friendly, professional, and compassionate demeanor
• Strong phone and scheduling skills
• Team player with a positive attitude
• Reliable and punctual
• Solution-oriented mindset

Education

• High School Diploma or equivalent.

Experience

• Candidates will have a minimum of two years of experience in a dental healthcare office or fast-paced, highly interactive customer service environment.