Job Description

Position Summary

The Dental Assistant (DA) provides high-quality clinical support to the dentist, ensuring safe and efficient patient care. This role is also cross-trained to perform front desk duties, including patient check-in, scheduling, and handling patient inquiries. The RDA/Receptionist supports smooth clinic operations and delivers excellent customer service in both the clinical and administrative areas.

Essential Duties

Clinical (RDA) Duties

• Prepare treatment rooms for procedures by setting up instruments, materials, and equipment.
• Assist the dentist chairside during exams, restorations, extractions, and other dental procedures.
• Take, process, and mount dental radiographs in accordance with state regulations.
• Perform coronal polishing, apply sealants/fluoride, and take impressions as permitted under RDA licensure.
• Sterilize and disinfect instruments, equipment, and operatories following infection control protocols.
• Review medical histories, record vital signs, and update patient records in the electronic dental record (EDR).
• Assist with supply inventory, weekly checks, and restocking clinical areas.
• Provide patient education on oral hygiene, postoperative instructions, and treatment plans as directed by the dentist.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, HIPAA, infection control, and all regulatory requirements.

Front Desk / Administrative Duties

• Greet patients, check them in/out, and provide a welcoming and professional environment.
• Verify insurance coverage, eligibility, and required documentation before appointments.
• Schedule, confirm, and reschedule appointments using the practice management system.
• Answer phone calls, respond to patient inquiries, and route messages to the appropriate staff.
• Collect co-pays, manage payment posting, and provide receipts.
• Maintain accuracy in patient demographics, insurance information, and consent forms.
• Assist with recall lists, patient reminders, and follow-up scheduling.
• Support daily and monthly front office reporting requirements.

Additional Responsibilities

• Other duties as needed when short-staffed.
• Follows and adheres to the Employee Handbook, as well as MMHC policies and procedures.

Education and Skills

• Certificate of completion from an accredited Dental Assistant school.
• Current CPR/BLS certification.
• Radiography certification as mandated by the State of California.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Experience in a dental clinic or community health setting.
• Previous front desk experience preferred.
• Strong chairside assisting skills and knowledge of dental procedures.
• Excellent customer service, communication, and patient-relations abilities.
• Ability to multitask effectively between clinical and administrative duties.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain patient confidentiality and follow HIPAA guidelines.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, team-oriented clinic environment.
• Ability to remain calm, professional, and service-focused during busy or stressful periods.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, bend, or twist for extended periods.
• Ability to lift or move up to 25 pounds (instrument trays, boxes of supplies, etc.).
• Manual dexterity for assisting procedures.
• Ability to speak clearly and communicate with patients in person and by phone.

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