Full-Scope Dental Assistant: 4-Handed Dentistry

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 52,000 - 67,000; Full time

Job summary

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a Staff Dental Assistant in a full‑time, on‑site role. The position involves preparing operatory, assisting in a range of restorative, surgical, endodontic, and periodontic procedures, and maintaining infection control standards.

Candidates must meet CODA accreditation requirements and VA policy on eligibility. The role entails multi-faceted patient care, instrument handling, charting findings, and adherence to privacy regulations.

Qualifications

• Six months experience demonstrating ability to perform the work or familiarity with the work.
• English language proficiency in speaking and writing as required by policy.
• Active certification requirements per radiologic standards are described in the job notice.
• DANB certification not required but desirable; required for higher levels.

Responsibilities

• Set up operatory or surgery suite; prepare and maintain sterile environment.
• Assist in routine and specialized dental procedures using four-hands dentistry.
• Pass instruments safely; maintain clear operative field and retract tissues.
• Prepare medicaments and impression materials; follow infection control protocols.
• Monitor vital signs during invasive treatment and recovery as needed.
• Prepare study models and dental prosthetic impressions; fabricate trays.

Skills

Six months experience

English language proficiency

Education

1-year dental assistant program (CODA accredited)

Job description

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a Staff Dental Assistant in a full‑time, on‑site role. The position involves preparing operatory, assisting in a range of restorative, surgical, endodontic, and periodontic procedures, and maintaining infection control standards.

Candidates must meet CODA accreditation requirements and VA policy on eligibility. The role entails multi-faceted patient care, instrument handling, charting findings, and adherence to privacy regulations.