Dental Assistant: Patient Care & Imaging

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; California; On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) seeks a Dental Assistant to support dentists in direct patient care across VA NCHCS facilities.

The role involves preparing operatory spaces, passing instruments, and assisting in a range of procedures—from routine care to complex restorative work—while adhering to infection control standards and using electronic dental records. Qualified applicants may include those with a one-year CODA-accredited program or equivalent experience and radiology

Qualifications

• Experience required or pending education/certification may be considered for referral
• Must meet radiologic credentialing standards (DANB or equivalent)
• Basic life support certification desirable
• Ability to work under indirect supervision and follow dental procedures

Responsibilities

• Prepare operatory/surgery suite and ensure equipment/materials are ready for planned procedures
• Pass instruments safely and efficiently
• Maintain a clean, sterile field and manage infection control protocols
• Assist in general and specialized dental procedures (oral surgery, endodontics, periodontics)
• Document initial findings and treatment plans in the Dental Record Manager
• Complete electronic returns to clinic orders as required
• Coordinate care with dentist and ensure patient communication and scheduling compliance

Skills

Dental assisting experience

Radiology knowledge

Patient education

Infection control

Electronic dental records

Education

1-year CODA-accredited dental assistant program

Tools

Dental Record Manager

Job description

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) seeks a Dental Assistant to support dentists in direct patient care across VA NCHCS facilities.

The role involves preparing operatory spaces, passing instruments, and assisting in a range of procedures—from routine care to complex restorative work—while adhering to infection control standards and using electronic dental records. Qualified applicants may include those with a one-year CODA-accredited program or equivalent experience and radiology