Use this Dental Assistant job description template to attract qualified candidates who can support dentists in delivering high-quality patient care.
A Dental Assistant is a healthcare professional who supports dentists by preparing patients, sterilizing instruments, managing dental equipment, and assisting during procedures. They also handle administrative tasks, ensuring smooth operations within the dental office.
A Dental Assistant helps maintain an efficient dental practice by assisting with procedures and ensuring patient comfort. Their key responsibilities include:
- Preparing patients for dental exams and treatments.
- Assisting the dentist during procedures by handing instruments and managing suction.
- Sterilizing and organizing dental tools and equipment.
- Taking and developing dental x-rays when permitted.
- Maintaining patient records and scheduling appointments.
Dental Assistant Job Description Template
We are looking for a reliable and detail-oriented Dental Assistant to join our dental team. The ideal candidate should be skilled in chairside assistance, have knowledge of infection control, and show compassion toward patients. If you are a team player with a passion for helping patients feel comfortable and confident, we’d love to meet you!
Roles & Responsibilities
- Assist the dentist during examinations, cleanings, fillings, and other procedures.
- Prepare treatment rooms, instruments, and materials before each patient visit.
- Sterilize and disinfect instruments and equipment following safety protocols.
- Take dental x-rays and impressions as required.
- Educate patients on oral hygiene and post-treatment care.
- Maintain accurate and updated patient records.
- Schedule appointments, manage patient flow, and handle front-desk tasks when needed.
- Monitor inventory levels and assist in ordering dental supplies.
- Ensure compliance with OSHA, HIPAA, and infection control guidelines.
- Provide compassionate care to patients of all ages.
Requirements & Skills
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Completion of a Dental Assistant program (preferred).
- State certification or registration, if required.
- Experience with dental x-ray machines and dental software.
- Strong understanding of infection control and sterilization procedures.
- Excellent communication and patient-care skills.
- Ability to multitask and work in a fast-paced environment.
- Detail-oriented, organized, and professional demeanor.
Who do Dental Assistants report to?
Dental Assistants typically report to:
- Dentist / Lead Dentist
- Dental Office Manager
- Clinical Supervisor
- Practice Administrator
Post this on job boards and career pages to find professionals skilled in chairside assistance, sterilization, patient preparation, and dental office operations. Feel free to customize the job duties and requirements based on your clinic’s needs. Similar job titles include Dental Nurse, Orthodontic Assistant, and Registered Dental Assistant (RDA).
How to Assess Dental Assistant Skills Effectively
Candidates may list dental assisting experience on their resumes, but assessing their actual ability to support dentists, manage patient care, and handle clinical tasks before the interview is crucial. A structured Dental Assistant assessment ensures you hire professionals who can maintain efficient clinic workflows and deliver high-quality patient support.
Here’s how you can assess Dental Assistant proficiency effectively with WeCP:
- Clinical & Chairside Assistance – Test candidates on their ability to assist during dental procedures, prepare treatment rooms, and handle instruments properly.
- Patient Care & Communication – Evaluate their capability to comfort patients, explain procedures, and maintain a calm, supportive environment.
- Infection Control & Sterilization – Assess their knowledge of sterilization protocols, hygiene standards, and OSHA compliance.
- Dental Terminology & Charting – Check their understanding of dental charting, X-ray interpretation basics, and common dental terminology.
- Administrative & Scheduling Skills – Ensure they can manage appointments, maintain patient records, and handle insurance paperwork accurately.
With WeCP’s Dental Assistant assessments, you can efficiently filter out underqualified candidates, streamline the hiring process, and ensure high-quality hires who can enhance patient care and support smooth dental office operations.
