Licensed Dental Assistant LDA

Bright Smiles Community Clinic & Dental; Saint Paul (MN); On-site; USD 27,552 - 41,328; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) retirement plan with employer match

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Paid time off

Free continuing education

Job summary

A nonprofit dental clinic in Minnesota is seeking a Licensed Dental Assistant to support the care team in delivering compassionate dental care. The role requires a valid LDA license, and bilingual skills in Spanish or Hmong are preferred. Responsibilities include assisting during procedures, educating patients on oral health, and maintaining a clean environment. This position offers competitive pay, flexible scheduling, and opportunities for professional development, contributing to essential health equity goals within the community.

Qualifications

• At least a current Minnesota LDA license is required.
• Experience in community health or nonprofit settings preferred.
• Bilingual in Spanish or Hmong is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Assist dentists and dental therapists during various procedures.
• Prepare instruments and maintain safety standards.
• Educate patients on oral hygiene and prevention.

Skills

Current and valid Minnesota Licensed Dental Assistant (LDA) license in good standing

Current CPR/BLS certification

Knowledge of dental procedures, instruments, and infection control standards

Bilingual or multilingual in Spanish and/or Hmong preferred

Commitment to health equity and patient-centered care

Education

Minnesota Licensed Dental Assistant (LDA) license

Job description

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Competitive salary
• Health insurance
• Opportunity for advancement
• Paid time off
• Training & development

Overview

Bright Smiles Community Clinic & Dental is a nonprofit organization committed to eliminating oral health disparities and expanding access to compassionate, high-quality oral health care for underserved communities across Minnesota. We serve children and adults regardless of insurance status or ability to pay, with a focus on Medicaid-insured, uninsured, immigrant, refugee, and low-income populations.

Position Summary

The Licensed Dental Assistant (LDA) is a vital member of the care team, supporting clinical providers in delivering efficient, high-quality, and culturally responsive dental care. Bilingual or multilingual candidates (Spanish or Hmong preferred) help us better serve patients with language barriers and strengthen trust, communication, and health outcomes in our communities.

Qualifications

• Current and valid Minnesota Licensed Dental Assistant (LDA) license in good standing
• Current CPR/BLS certification
• Knowledge of dental procedures, instruments, and infection control standards
• Bilingual or multilingual in Spanish and/or Hmong preferred (not required)
• Experience working in community health, nonprofit, or public health settings preferred
• Commitment to health equity, cultural humility, and patient-centered care
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, team-based clinical environment

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive hourly pay (based on experience and licensure)
• Performance-based monthly bonuses tied to access, quality, and teamwork goals
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match
• Health insurance
• Flexible scheduling options to support work-life balance
• Free continuing education (CE) and professional development assistance
• Opportunities to participate in community outreach, school-based, and prevention programs

Key Responsibilities

• Assist dentists and dental therapists during examinations, restorative, and preventive procedures
• Prepare operatories, instruments, and materials according to OSHA, infection control, and safety standards
• Perform allowable delegated duties under Minnesota Board of Dentistry regulations, including:
• Taking dental radiographs
• Assisting with restorations, extractions, and periodontal procedures
• Placing sealants (if certified)
• Support patient flow and clinical efficiency by anticipating provider needs
• Provide compassionate chairside support to patients of all ages, including those with dental anxiety or language barriers
• Educate patients and families on oral hygiene, post-operative care, and prevention in a culturally responsive manner
• Sterilize instruments and maintain clean, safe clinical environments
• Support documentation, inventory management, and quality improvement initiatives
• Serve patients across the lifespan, beginning at 6 months of age
• Collaborate with front desk, care coordinators, and community health workers to ensure a seamless patient experience

Why Join Bright Smiles

At Bright Smiles Community Clinic & Dental, language access is health access. As a Licensed Dental Assistant, you will play a critical role in ensuring patients feel heard, understood, and respected — while contributing to a mission-driven nonprofit dedicated to equity, dignity, and community health.