Dental Assistant

Progressive Dental Arts; Newark (DE); On-site; USD 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Progressive Dental Arts in Christiana - Newark, DE is seeking a Dental Assistant to support dentists and clinical staff, ensure patient comfort, and maintain sterility throughout procedures. You will assist chairside, monitor patient safety, and contribute to a smooth clinical flow.

The ideal candidate has an accredited dental assisting program, CPR and radiology certification, 1–2 years of experience (new grads welcome), and strong communication, organization, and teamwork skills.

Qualifications

• Completion of an accredited dental assisting program.
• Current CPR certification.
• Dental radiology certification required.
• 1–2 years of experience in a dental office preferred; new graduates welcome to apply.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to support patient care and team collaboration.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Familiarity with dental software systems is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Provide chairside support during a variety of dental procedures, including instrument transfer and maintaining a clear working field.
• Anticipate the dentist’s needs to enhance efficiency and procedure flow.
• Capture diagnostic‑quality dental radiographs following safety protocols and state regulations.
• Prepare lab cases and accurately box/label material for lab submission and ensure patient records are updated.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Time management

Dental software familiarity

Education

Accredited dental assisting program

CPR certification

Dental radiology certification

Tools

Dental software systems

Job description

Job Details Job Location: Progressive Dental Arts Christiana - Newark, DE 19713 Position Type: Full Time

The Dental Assistant plays an essential role in delivering exceptional patient care and supporting efficient clinical operations. This team member works closely with the dentist and clinical staff to assist during procedures, ensure patient comfort, maintain a sterile and organized environment, and uphold high standards of infection control and professionalism. Strong communication skills, adaptability, and a positive attitude are key to success in this role.

Service

Placing patients first, delivering compassionate, personalized care that meets their needs and exceeds expectations.

• Greet and prepare patients for treatment, ensuring they are informed and comfortable throughout their visit.
• Communicate professionally with patients regarding procedures, follow‑up care, and general inquiries.
• Review medical histories, update patient records, and take vital signs as needed.
• Provide patients with oral hygiene guidance and clear post‑operative instructions.
• Support front desk teams with check‑in, follow‑up scheduling, and maintaining smooth patient flow when needed.
• Monitor and support patient comfort and safety throughout treatment.

Mastery

Continuously refining skills, expanding knowledge, and setting the highest standards in dental excellence.

• Provide chairside support during a variety of dental procedures, including instrument transfer, suctioning, and maintaining a clear working field.
• Anticipate the dentist’s needs to enhance efficiency and procedure flow.
• Prepare and mix dental materials as directed, ensuring accuracy and adherence to manufacturer guidelines.
• Capture diagnostic‑quality dental radiographs in accordance with safety protocols and state regulations. Ensure images are clear, properly positioned, and free of common errors such as cone cuts, overlapping, shadowing, and visible jewelry.
• Demonstrate proficiency in CBCT image captures and the ability to write and burn discs for these images as required.
• Prepare lab cases by accurately boxing and labeling physical cases with completed prescriptions or ensuring digital cases are properly submitted to the lab for timely processing.
• Exhibit proficiency in extraoral and intraoral photography, including but not limited to iTero scans, intraoral camera usage, and other digital imaging tools.
• Accurately update and maintain patient records, including medical history, pre‑existing treatment, and treatment notes.

Impact

Making a meaningful difference in patients’ lives and the efficiency of the practice.

• Contribute to improved patient outcomes by delivering consistent, high‑quality care.
• Maintain clean, organized, and fully stocked operatories to ensure seamless patient experiences.
• Support infection control through proper handling, packaging, and storage of sterilized instruments and materials.
• Facilitate provider accountability by printing and distributing daily day sheets, supporting accurate review of production, proper charge‑out verification, and documentation integrity.
• Support smooth clinical operations by monitoring supplies and properly utilizing the tag system to maintain consistent inventory and avoid workflow disruption.

Leadership

Inspiring positive change and taking initiative within the team.

• Demonstrate accountability in all duties and adherence to clinical protocols.
• Collaborate with team members and offer support during busy or challenging times.
• Take initiative in managing daily responsibilities and stepping in where needed.
• Uphold a professional, solutions‑focused attitude in patient and team interactions.

Elevate

Fostering growth, innovation, and excellence in all aspects of care.

• Bring forward ideas to improve efficiency, patient experience, or workflow.
• Engage in feedback with a growth mindset and willingness to adapt.
• Contribute to a positive culture by modeling enthusiasm, kindness, and professionalism.
• Seek ongoing development opportunities to elevate clinical and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Completion of an accredited dental assisting program preferred
• Current CPR certification required
• Dental radiology certification required
• 1–2 years of experience in a dental office preferred; new graduates are welcome to apply.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to support patient care and team collaboration.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Familiarity with dental software systems is a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and move frequently throughout the workday.
• Manual dexterity to handle instruments, materials, and equipment with precision.
• Ability to lift or move up to 25 pounds as needed.
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced, clinical environment with exposure to bodily fluids and disinfectants.