Dental Assistant

The American Dental Hygienists' Association; Salem (VA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

The Salem VA Medical Center seeks a dental assistant to work in a hospital-based dental clinic. Responsibilities include assisting in complex dental procedures, capturing dental images, and ensuring a sterile environment. Qualified candidates will have relevant education/experience and certification in radiologic procedures, with the opportunity to work in a supportive and structured setting.

Qualifications

• U.S. citizenship required.
• DANB certification desirable but not mandatory.
• Experience with complex dental procedures preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist dentist in direct patient care and clinical functions.
• Capture diagnostic dental images ensuring safety.
• Maintain a sterile environment and assist with infection control.

Skills

Radiologic procedures certification

Infection control procedures

Patient education skills

Education

Relevant education/experience

Job description

Summary

This position is located in the Dental Service at the Salem VA Medical Center (VAMC). It involves performing duties as a dental assistant in a hospital-based dental clinic. The role includes assisting the provider and independently performing complex dental procedures such as restorative, endodontics, prosthodontics, periodontics, implantology, and oral surgery, utilizing four-handed dentistry techniques.

Qualifications

To qualify, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of 04/28/2022. Basic requirements include U.S. citizenship, relevant experience or education, and certification in radiologic procedures. Specific grade levels (GS-03 to GS-06) have additional experience and knowledge requirements, with increasing responsibilities and independence at higher grades. The position may require DANB certification, which is highly desirable but not mandatory.

Duties

• Assist the dentist in direct patient care and perform clinical and clerical functions under supervision.
• Set up operatory, pass instruments, and maintain a sterile environment.
• Capture diagnostic dental images, ensuring safety and quality.
• Follow infection control procedures and sterilize equipment.
• Assist with scheduling, patient records, and maintaining confidentiality.
• Provide patient education, support during procedures, and post-operative instructions.
• Support dental laboratory functions and work with various dental specialists as needed.

Work Schedule

7:30 am - 5:00 pm, Monday to Thursday; 7:30 am - 4:00 pm, Friday, every other week off. Telework is not available. This is not a virtual position.