Dental Assistant (4Y0X1 & 4Y0X1H)

Military Kids; New Jersey; On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking dedicated individuals to join their team as Air Force Dental Assistants. This role is pivotal in ensuring patients receive top-notch care during their dental visits. Responsibilities include assisting with exams and surgeries, maintaining records, and managing patient interactions. With a structured training program and the opportunity to gain valuable skills, this position offers a stable pay structure aligned with military ranks and numerous benefits. Ideal for those looking to build a career in dentistry, this role provides a unique blend of service and professional development.

Benefits

Low-cost or free medical insurance

Low-cost or free dental insurance

Housing allowances

Food allowances

Retirement options after 20 years

Educational assistance

Access to recreational facilities

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Completion of a dental hygiene program is necessary.

Responsibilities

• Assist with customer experience during dental visits.
• Schedule appointments and maintain patient records.
• Prepare patients for treatment and assist during procedures.

Skills

Knowledge of oral and dental anatomy

Normal color vision

Patient care management

Assisting in surgeries

Taking vital signs

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Completion of a minimum two-year ADA-accredited dental hygiene program

Job description

Air Force Dental Assistant (4Y0X1) assists with the entire customer experience during dental visits.

Dental Assistants assist doctors with exams, procedures, and surgeries.

They are there to ensure that each patient has the best experience possible, including before, during, and after their procedure or exam.

Education, Qualifications, and Training

The required education, qualifications, and training for an Air Force Dental Assistant are outlined below.

Education

This job requires a High School Diploma or GED.

Recruits must also meet the general ASVAB requirements for the Air Force.

The qualifications for a Dental Assistant are:

• Knowledge of oral and dental anatomy
• Normal color vision
• Between the ages of 17 and 39 (18 prior to technical training)
• Completion of a minimum two-year American Dental Association-accredited degree awarding dental hygiene program

Training

Air Force Dental Assistants will attend Basic Military Training for 8.5 weeks.

They will then go to Fort Sam Houston in Texas for 48 days of technical training.

What does an Air Force Dental Assistant Do?

Assist with all aspects of the customer experience during dental visits, supporting the dentist with exams, procedures, and surgeries.

Responsibilities include scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, preparing patients for treatment, and assisting during procedures.

Preparing the patient involves taking vital signs, cleaning, and applying anticarcinogenic agents.

They also prepare and sterilize equipment, take and develop x-rays, and assist in surgeries and other dental procedures.

Additional duties include reviewing records, developing training programs, managing dental supplies, and instructing patients on post-care.

After procedures, they help schedule follow-up appointments and may assist in emergency situations.

What is the Pay for an Air Force Dental Assistant?

They earn the same base pay as other Air Force personnel of the same rank and years of service. For example, the 2023 minimum monthly pay ranges from $1,917.60 for E-1 to $6,055.50 for senior ranks.

Benefits

Benefits include low-cost or free medical and dental insurance, housing, food allowances, retirement options after 20 years, educational assistance, and recreational facilities.

Job Reviews

Positive reviews highlight the benefits and valuable skills gained. Negative feedback notes frequent moves and limited promotion opportunities.

Civilian Job Opportunities

The skills acquired can lead to civilian Dental Assistant roles, which are in high demand and vary by location and experience.

Summary

Overall, this role involves assisting with dental treatments, managing patient care, and supporting dental operations, with steady pay and excellent benefits. The experience gained is valuable for civilian careers in dentistry.