Dental Assistant I

Great-Smiles; Asheville (NC); On-site; USD 20,664,000 - 30,307,000; Full time

Job summary

Great Smiles is seeking a motivated Dental Assistant I to join our pediatric dental team onsite in Asheville. Training will be provided; no prior dental experience is required, and compassionate, reliable candidates will thrive in a supportive environment.

You will support dentists with routine pediatric procedures, prepare treatment areas, and assist with radiographs while ensuring patient comfort and safety. Strong teamwork and communication are essential for success.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience with dental instrument sterilization preferred, but not required.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities.

Responsibilities

• Assist dentists with routine pediatric dental procedures under direct supervision.
• Prepare treatment areas by setting up basic instruments and materials before procedures.
• Provide chairside assistance during cleanings, fluoride treatments, and simple restorative procedures.
• Take and develop dental X-rays as directed, following standard safety protocols.
• Assist with routine patient positioning and preparation for exams and treatments.
• Help maintain accurate patient records by entering treatment notes and updating basic information in the electronic health record (EHR) system.
• Answer phones and direct inquiries to the appropriate staff.
• Support supply organization by restocking rooms and notifying supervisors when supplies are low.
• Work closely with dentists, hygienists, assistants, and administrative staff to ensure high-quality, coordinated care.
• Participate in team meetings, training, and quality improvement initiatives.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Dentist or Site Manager.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Patient care

Attention to detail

Flexibility

Time management

Education

High school diploma

Job description

Description

We are seeking a motivated, compassionate individual to join our orthodontic team as a Dental Assistant. This is an excellent opportunity for anyone passionate about starting a career in dentistry, exploring a new field, or gaining valuable healthcare experience.

No prior dental experience? No problem! We are willing to train the right candidate who is reliable, eager to learn, works well with others, and genuinely cares about helping patients feel comfortable and supported.

SUMMARY

As a Dental Assistant I, you will be an essential member of the dental care team, supporting dentists and providing high-quality oral care for children. You will ensure that young patients receive safe and effective treatments while maintaining a comfortable and positive dental experience.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Clinical Support
• Assist dentists with routine pediatric dental procedures under direct supervision.
• Prepare treatment areas by setting up basic instruments and materials before procedures.
• Provide chairside assistance during cleanings, fluoride treatments, and simple restorative procedures.
• Support basic patient care needs during procedures, ensuring comfort and safety.
• Take and develop dental X-rays as directed, following standard safety protocols.
• Assist with routine patient positioning and preparation for exams and treatments.
• Infection Control & Safety
• Follow standard infection control procedures to maintain a clean and safe clinical environment.
• Clean, disinfect, and sterilize instruments and equipment according to guidelines.
• Set up and clean treatment rooms using proper disposal of waste and biohazard materials.
• Patient Education & Communication
• Provide patients and families with basic oral hygiene instructions such as brushing and flossing techniques.
• Support the dental team in delivering post-treatment instructions.
• Use child-friendly language and a reassuring manner to help young patients feel at ease.
• Administrative Responsibilities
• Assist with scheduling and confirming appointments under supervision.
• Help maintain accurate patient records by entering treatment notes and updating basic information in the electronic health record (EHR) system.
• Answer phones and direct inquiries to the appropriate staff.
• Support supply organization by restocking rooms and notifying supervisors when supplies are low.
• Team Collaboration
• Work closely with dentists, hygienists, assistants, and administrative staff to ensure high-quality, coordinated care.
• Participate in team meetings, training, and quality improvement initiatives.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Dentist or Site Manager.

COMPETENCIES

• Manages time effectively to support scheduling, procedure prep, and smooth patient flow under supervision.
• Provides friendly, courteous, and professional service to patients, families, and team members.
• Works collaboratively, follows guidance, and adapts to changing tasks in a fast-paced clinical environment.
• Demonstrates respect, empathy, and professionalism in a diverse and inclusive setting.
• Willing to learn, apply problem-solving skills, and work a flexible schedule, including travel to other clinic sites.

May have other duties assigned at any time.

Please note that this job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this position. Responsibilities, duties, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

EEO STATEMENT

Great Smiles provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all employment terms and conditions, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Requirements

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience with dental instrument sterilization preferred, but not required.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This position may require prolonged sitting or standing, repetitive motions, and tasks common to primary care dentistry. It involves using phones, computers, and other office equipment, and may include irregular hours and stressful conditions. Exposure to clinical hazards such as communicable diseases, body fluids, radiation, and chemicals is possible. Physical demands include lifting up to 30 pounds, and the ability to stoop, kneel, reach, hear, see (including color and depth perception), and communicate effectively.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This job operates in a pediatric dental and orthodontic office environment. It regularly uses standard dental/orthodontic equipment, including X-rays and photos. Additionally, standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, file cabinets, and fax machines is routinely utilized in this position.