Dental Assistant (DHWC)

Methodist Healthcare Ministries; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 30,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

Methodist Healthcare Ministries is seeking a Dental Assistant (DHWC) in San Antonio, TX. This non-exempt, full-time role supports dentists with chairside care, patient management, and administrative tasks while upholding infection control and charting standards.

The ideal candidate has a Texas RDA credential, radiology certification, CPR, and at least two years of related experience, with bilingualism a plus. Expect collaboration with clinicians and routine patient education.

Qualifications

• Requires high school diploma or GED and completion of an accredited Dental Assistant Program.
• Texas RDA license and Dental Radiology certification required.
• Current CPR certification and OSHA knowledge are required.
• Minimum two years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and training.
• Proficiency with digital radiography and electronic health records is expected.

Responsibilities

• Provide chairside assistance using four- and six-handed dentistry techniques.
• Manage patient flow: prep, seating, vitals, and chart review.
• Educate patients on oral health and document education given.
• Assist with scheduling, treatment planning, consent forms, and follow-ups.

Skills

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Adaptability

Problem-solving

Patient-centered care

Education

High school diploma or GED

Dental Assistant Program completion

Tools

EHR systems

Microsoft Office

Digital radiography

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Dental Assistant (DHWC)

Non-Exempt Full-Time Entry Contributor San Antonio, TX, US

Salary Range: $21.75 To $26.94 Hourly

Position Summary

Assists the Dentist by providing both clinical and administrative support during patient examinations and treatments. Prepares patients and treatment areas, ensures compliance with infection control protocols, maintains dental records, and provides oral health education—all in alignment with Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ Mission, Objectives, and Core Values.

Scope and Impact

Supports clinical operations within the dental department, directly impacting patient care quality and clinic efficiency. No direct budget or supervisory responsibilities, but contributes to smooth day-to-day clinical functions.

Decision-Making Authority

Operates under established clinical protocols and guidelines. Exercises limited independent decision-making; escalates complex situations to dental provider or supervisor.

Interactions / Working Relationships

• Internal: Regular collaboration with Dentists, Hygienists, Front Office, and other clinical team members.
• External: Direct interaction with patients during appointments; occasional contact with dental labs and vendors.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Chairside Assistance (25%) – Assists dentists using four- and six-handed dentistry techniques; sets up instruments and materials; takes digital and panoramic radiographs.
• Patient Management (20%) – Receives, prepares, and dismisses patients; reviews charts, medication history, and medical conditions; takes and records vital signs and sugar levels.
• Oral Health Education & Records (15%) – Provides patient education on oral hygiene and prosthesis care; performs PRAPARE assessments; charts conditions and procedures.
• Administrative Support (15%) – Reviews and prepares patient charts and lab cases; assists with scheduling, treatment planning, consent forms, and follow-ups.
• Infection Control & Sterilization (10%) – Disinfects and wraps operatories; sterilizes instruments; stocks supplies and maintains monthly clinical logs.
• Prosthetic and Lab Support (10%) – Takes impressions, fabricates temporary crowns and bridges, labels lab cases, and performs minor adjustments to partials and dentures.
• Clinical Tasks & Supply Management (5%) – Completes monthly clinical tasks; assists with ordering and organizing dental supplies.

Supervisory or Leadership Responsibilities

This position does not supervise others.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications (Required)

• Education: High school diploma or GED; completion of an accredited Dental Assistant Program.
• Licenses/Certifications:
• Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) certified by the State of Texas
• Dental Radiology certification
• Current CPR certification
• Experience: Minimum two years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and training.
• Other Required Skills/Knowledge: Knowledge of OSHA standards and digital radiography.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish.
• Familiarity with PRAPARE assessment.
• Experience working in a community health or nonprofit dental clinic.
• Proficiency in electronic health records.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Attention to detail and organization
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Adaptability and initiative
• Basic problem-solving skills
• Commitment to patient-centered care and cultural sensitivity

Technology and Tools

• Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems
• Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Digital radiography equipment
• Internet and email communication tools

Work Environment and Physical Demands

• Setting: Clinical (dental office environment)
• Travel: Not typically required
• Physical: Must be able to bend, stoop, twist, walk, and lift/maneuver up to 25 pounds. Prolonged periods of sitting or standing.