Dental Assistant

Centre Smiles Dental; Portage (MI); On-site; USD 36,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee discounts

Training & development

401(k)

Paid time off

Job summary

Centre Smiles Dental is seeking a reliable Dental Assistant to join the clinical team. The role requires preparing treatment rooms, assisting the dentist, taking X-rays, and maintaining strict infection control while delivering excellent patient care.

The ideal candidate has a high school diploma, dental assisting certification, and CPR/X-ray credentials, with strong communication and organizational skills to thrive in a busy practice.

Qualifications

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills required.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to patient care and teamwork.
• Familiarity with dental terminology and procedural workflows.

Responsibilities

• Prepare treatment rooms and instruments for patient procedures.
• Assist the dentist during a variety of treatment procedures.
• Take dental radiographs (X-rays).
• Sterilize and maintain instruments according to OSHA standards.
• Ensure operatories are stocked and organized.
• Provide chairside assistance during restorative, surgical, and hygiene procedures.
• Take impressions, scans, and intraoral photos as needed.
• Educate patients on oral hygiene and post-operative instructions.
• Ensure all patient consents are obtained as needed.

Skills

Communication skills

Multitasking

Team player

Detail oriented

Punctual

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Dental assisting certification

X-ray certification

CPR certification

Tools

OpenDental

Job description

Dental Assistant Job Description

Benefits:

• Employee discounts
• Training & development
• 401(k)
• Paid time off

Reports To

Dentist/Office Manager/Lead Dental Assistant

Position Summary

We are seeking a reliable, organized, and compassionate Dental Assistant to join our team. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, works well in a fast-paced environment, and is committed to providing excellent patient care while supporting the clinical team efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Duties

• Prepare treatment rooms and instruments for patient procedures
• Assist the dentist during a variety of treatment procedures
• Take dental radiographs (X-rays)
• Sterilize and maintain instruments according to OSHA and infection control standards
• Ensure operatories are stocked and organized
• Provide chairside assistance during restorative, surgical, and hygiene procedures
• Take impressions, scans, and intraoral photos as needed
• Educate patients on oral hygiene and post-operative instructions
• Ensure all patient consents are obtained as needed

Patient Care

• Greet and seat patients in a professional and friendly manner
• Review medical history and update patient records
• Ensure patient comfort before, during, and after treatment
• Answer patient questions and help create a positive patient experience

Administrative Support

• Document treatment notes accurately in patient charts
• Assist with scheduling or confirming appointments as needed
• Review and check in lab cases
• Maintain inventory and notify management when supplies need to be ordered
• Follow all office policies, HIPAA guidelines, and safety protocols

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Dental assisting certification preferred
• X-ray certification preferred
• CPR certification preferred
• Previous dental assisting experience preferred but not required
• Knowledge of dental terminology and procedures
• Familiarity with dental software is a plus, we currently use OpenDental

Skills & Attributes

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
• Positive attitude and team-oriented mindset
• Excellent attention to detail
• Dependable and punctual
• Strong organizational skills

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Ability to lift and move dental equipment/supplies as needed
• Manual dexterity required for handling instruments and equipment

Schedule & Benefits

• Full-time / Part-time
• Monday–Thursday, some Fridays as needed
• Competitive pay based on experience
• Paid time off
• Retirement benefits
• Continuing education opportunities

Equal Opportunity Statement

Our office is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.