Dental Assistant

Bowen Health; Fort Wayne (IN); On-site; USD 34,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Bowen Health in Fort Wayne, Indiana, seeks a Dental Assistant to support dentists and hygienists in patient care and treatment. Responsibilities include chair-side assisting, patient preparation, taking x-rays, and maintaining a sterile environment.

The ideal candidate should have at least one year of experience in a dental office and possess a high school diploma or GED. The role promotes a respectful workplace guided by equal opportunity and safety principles. An X-Ray Certification is preferred.

Qualifications

• Highschool diploma or GED is required.
• At least one year of experience in a dental office preferred.
• Radiographic license required if operating dental x-ray equipment.

Responsibilities

• Open and close the dental clinic each working day.
• Prepare patients for appointments and educate them on dental procedures.
• Assist the dentist and hygienists during chair-side procedures.

Skills

Chair-side assisting

Patient care

Sterilization of instruments

Oral hygiene education

Administrative tasks

Education

Highschool diploma or GED

Radiographic license

Tools

Dental x-ray equipment

Dental instruments

Job description

Under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist, the Dental Assistant supports dentists and dental hygienists in the care and treatment of patients. Responsibilities include chair-side assisting, patient preparation, taking x-rays, sterilizing instruments, maintaining a sterile environment, and providing oral hygiene education. The role also involves performing administrative tasks such as patient intake and front desk support, maintaining dental records, and managing inventory to ensure efficient clinic operations.

Duties/Responsibilities:

Below are the primary duties and essential functions of an employee in this position. While not all tasks may be performed by every employee in this role, all employees are expected to perform related tasks as needed. These essential functions must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Open and close the dental clinic each working day, ensuring readiness and security.
• Prepare patients for appointments by ensuring their comfort and educating them on dental procedures and oral hygiene practices.
• Obtain patient medical and medication history
• Take and monitor patient vital signs
• Assist the dentist and hygienists during chair-side procedures by handing instruments, suctioning, applying topical anesthetics, and supporting patient care.
• Take dental x-rays under the direction and supervision of a licensed dentist with required certification per state law and regulation.
• Prepare, set up, and organize instruments, materials, and equipment needed for procedures.
• Sterilize instruments and perform routine cleaning and maintenance of dental equipment and work areas.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and professional clinical environment.
• Provide oral hygiene instructions and support patients in plaque control programs.
• Assist with scheduling appointments and accurately updating patient records.
• Assist in processing patient encounters and documentation.
• Recognize and communicate related medical or social concerns as appropriate.
• Assist in managing inventory, including tracking supplies and maintaining accurate inventory records.
• Support the training and onboarding of new Dental Assistants.
• Other duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements:

• Occupational Exposure Risk Classification: The normal work routine involves frequent exposure to blood, body fluids or tissues.
• The normal work routine has a moderate ergonomic risk for repetitive motion impairment.
• The position may require a moderate amount of physical exertion (bending, lifting, twisting) in the work area.

Required Qualifications:

• Education: Highschool diploma or GED required.
• Experience: Prefer at least one year of experience in dental office providing polishing, administering nitrous oxide, and fluoride application. Preferred to have X‑Ray Certification.
• Certificate or Professional License: Graduation from a school in dental assisting preferred.
• Radiographic license is required if operating dental x-ray equipment.
• Satisfactory results from criminal and driving record background checks.

Promise of Equal Opportunity and Fostering a Fair and Respectful Workplace:

Bowen Health is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive, diverse and respectful workplace. We comply with all applicable laws, including the ADA and OSHA regulations, and provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. Safety is a priority for all employees.

Bowen Health prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected statuses. Bowen Health is dedicated to creating opportunities for all employees to thrive and support our mission of compassionate care.