Dental Surgical Assistant

ALEXANDER HEATRICE DDS PC; Missouri; On-site; USD 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Premier Institute of Oral and Facial Surgery seeks a dedicated Surgical Assistant to support the oral surgeon and clinical team in a fast-paced setting. You will prepare rooms, assist during procedures, and help maintain sterility, while ensuring a safe patient experience under supervision.

Responsibilities include instrument transfer, suction, and chart updates; you will also help with X-rays and post-op instructions in Missouri's regulatory framework.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Willingness to learn and follow direction.
• Comfort using practice software and basic computer tasks.

Responsibilities

• Prepare operatories for oral surgery procedures, including setup, turnover, and disinfection between cases.
• Stock rooms and monitor clinical supplies; alert Lead SA when supplies reach par level.
• Maintain organized operatories and sterilization area according to standards.
• Assist chairside during procedures with instrument transfer, suction, retraction, and irrigation.
• Maintain sterile field and follow infection control guidelines per OSHA and CDC.
• Escort patients to/from operatory and reinforce post-op instructions.
• Take X-rays as ordered and per Missouri requirements; update patient records.
• Support safe handling of sharps, biohazard waste, and hazardous materials per OSHA.
• Participate in training and morning huddles; support sterilization workflow.

Skills

Patient-first communication

Attention to detail

Team-oriented

Open professional communication

HIPAA-compliant handling

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Dental assisting program coursework

CPR/BLS certification

DA/RDA credentials (Missouri)

Tools

Practice management software

Job description

Job Description

Position Summary

Support the oral surgeon and clinical team by preparing treatment rooms, assisting during oral surgery procedures, maintaining sterile technique, and ensuring patients have a safe and positive experience. This role is hands-on, patient-facing, and operates under close supervision from the Lead Surgical Assistant and surgeon.

Key Responsibilities

Room Preparation & Turnover

• Prepare operatories for oral surgery procedures including setup, turnover, and disinfection between cases

• Stock rooms and monitor clinical supplies; alert the Lead SA when supplies reach par level

• Maintain organized operatories and sterilization area consistent with practice standards

Chairside Assistance

• Assist chairside during procedures including instrument transfer, suction, retraction, and irrigation

• Maintain sterile field and follow infection control standards per OSHA and CDC guidelines at all times

• Escort patients to and from the operatory; provide comfort measures and reinforce post-op instructions as directed by the clinician

Documentation & Compliance

• Take X-rays per surgeon's orders and in accordance with applicable Missouri requirements

• Perform basic clinical tasks as assigned and permitted (e.g., take vitals, update medical history)

• Document clinical notes and update patient records in DSN as directed

• Support safe handling of sharps, biohazard waste, and hazardous materials per OSHA protocol

• Participate in training, morning huddles, and continuous improvement efforts

• Prepare, handle, and assist with sterilization workflow for instruments and materials

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent

• Interest in dental and oral surgery assisting; willingness to learn and follow direction

• Basic computer skills and comfort using practice software

• Reliable attendance and ability to follow established protocols

Preferred Qualifications

• Dental assisting program coursework or relevant healthcare experience

• CPR/BLS certification (or ability to obtain within 60 days of hire)

• DA/RDA credentials per Missouri requirements (as applicable)

Core Skills & Behaviors

• Patient-first communication and calm, composed chairside manner

• Attention to detail; follows sterile technique and safety steps consistently

• Team-oriented; receives feedback constructively and acts on it

• Open, professional communication with all team members

• HIPAA-compliant handling of patient information at all times

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods; frequent bending and reaching

• Ability to lift and carry up to approximately 25 lbs

• Manual dexterity required for instrument handling

Work Environment

Fast-paced clinical setting with exposure to bloodborne pathogens, chemicals used for disinfection and sterilization, and sharp instruments. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required and provided. All clinical staff are trained on OSHA bloodborne pathogen standards at hire and annually.

Company Description

At Premier Institute of Oral and Facial Surgery, we are committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care in a modern surgical setting. Our practice specializes in a full scope of oral and maxillofacial procedures, including dental implants, wisdom tooth removal, corrective jaw surgery, and treatment of facial injuries and conditions.
Our team is led by experienced oral surgeons and supported by highly trained surgical assistants and clinical staff. Together, we provide advanced care using state-of-the- art technology and in-office IV sedation to ensure a safe, comfortable experience for every patient.
We are dedicated to creating a caring, supportive, and educational environment - both for our patients and our team. Patient education is a key part of our approach, as we believe informed patients feel more confident and comfortable with their treatment.
At Premier, we also value professional growth and continuous learning. Our team members gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced surgical environment, working closely with skilled providers and developing both clinical and communication skills.
Our mission is simple: to help patients live healthier lives by providing exceptional care in a compassionate and respectful setting