Dental Assistant - Compassionate Care & Growth Benefits

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Albuquerque (NM); On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ New Mexico Health Care System Dental Service seeks a Dental Assistant to support dental procedures under supervision. Responsibilities include chair-side assistance, instrument handling, radiographic imaging, and patient communication.

Office processes and infection control are emphasized to ensure quality care. Qualifications include CODA-accredited training or equivalent experience, radiologic certification, and basic life support.

Qualifications

• U.S. citizenship required or as VA policy allows non-citizens
• English language proficiency (spoken and written) per 38 USC 7403(f)
• Six months experience or relevant familiarity with dental assisting work
• Successful completion of CODA-accredited dental assisting program or equivalent
• Credentialing in radiologic procedures per 42 CFR Part 75
• Certification in radiologic competence (DANB or equivalent) desirable or required by higher levels
• Basic Life Support certification desirable

Responsibilities

• Set up operatory and dental unit for planned procedures
• Pass instruments safely and maintain sterile field
• Assist in routine and specialty dental procedures
• Maintain dental equipment and manage imaging (in traditional and digital formats)
• Enter and retrieve patient data in electronic dental records
• Provide patient education and referrals as needed

Skills

Oral anatomy knowledge

Instruments & procedures knowledge

Vital signs interpretation

Patient education

Electronic dental records proficiency

Education

CODA-accredited dental assisting program

Equivalents (experience/education)

Tools

Radiographic imaging equipment

Dental radiography certification (DANB or state)

Job description

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ New Mexico Health Care System Dental Service seeks a Dental Assistant to support dental procedures under supervision. Responsibilities include chair-side assistance, instrument handling, radiographic imaging, and patient communication.

Office processes and infection control are emphasized to ensure quality care. Qualifications include CODA-accredited training or equivalent experience, radiologic certification, and basic life support.