Dental Assistant II: Onsite Chairside & Radiographs

SIU Medicine; Lincoln (IL); On-site; USD 32,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

SIU Medicine in Illinois seeks a Dental Assistant I to provide chairside support, prepare and sterilize instruments, take dental radiographs, maintain patient records, and assist with procedures. This on-site role works with dentists, hygienists, students, and staff to support clinical workflows and ensure high-quality patient care.

Key duties include patient preparation, radiography, aseptic technique, instrument processing, lab work, inventory, scheduling, and education.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• CDA certification, completion of an accredited dental assisting program, or six months of dental assisting experience.

Responsibilities

• Provide advanced chairside assistance and support restorative, surgical, and other dental procedures.
• Prepare and seat patients; document medical/dental histories in the EDR.
• Expose and process dental radiographs with proper radiation protection.
• Maintain a clear, dry operative field; assist with sedation within scope.
• Apply topical anesthetic and perform delegated tasks per Illinois law.
• Prepare operatories, pre-tray setups, instruments and materials for appointments.
• Clean, disinfect, and sterilize instruments; maintain aseptic conditions and OSHA standards.
• Perform laboratory procedures including impressions, model fabrication, and temporary crowns.
• Prepare lab prescriptions and coordinate with outside dental laboratories.
• Provide oral hygiene instructions and patient education; assist dental hygienists as needed.
• Assist in teaching dental assistant students and new staff on protocols.
• Identify equipment malfunctions and safety concerns; report to dentist or supervisor.

Skills

Chairside assistance

Four-handed dentistry

Patient communication

Suction/sterile technique

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

CDA certification / accredited program / 6 months experience

Job description

SIU Medicine in Illinois seeks a Dental Assistant I to provide chairside support, prepare and sterilize instruments, take dental radiographs, maintain patient records, and assist with procedures. This on-site role works with dentists, hygienists, students, and staff to support clinical workflows and ensure high-quality patient care.

Key duties include patient preparation, radiography, aseptic technique, instrument processing, lab work, inventory, scheduling, and education.