Registered Dental Assistant — Patient Care & Sterilization

Columbia Basin Health Association; Othello (WA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Columbia Basin Health Association is seeking a Dental Assistant I to support Dentists and Hygienists, ensuring operatory readiness, patient comfort, and accurate charting. The role involves patient care, instrument handling, and maintaining sterilization standards within CBHA clinics.

The position requires high school completion, CPR certification, and basic dental terminology knowledge, with responsibilities spanning clinical and non-clinical tasks.

Qualifications

• Basic written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to assess dental problems quickly and accurately.
• Working knowledge of hygiene/sterilization techniques.

Responsibilities

• Prepare operatory and equipment before seating patients.
• Greet and seat patients using the AIDET model.
• Review electronic dental chart and update health history and vitals.
• Ensure pre-exam documentation is complete (waivers, consents).
• Take vital signs and x-rays as directed by provider.
• Document restorations and procedures per provider instructions.
• Prepare and pass instruments and materials during patient care.
• Administer and monitor nitrous oxide; perform prophylaxis, fluoride, sealants.
• Take and pour alginate impressions; trim models.
• Provide oral hygiene, post-op and referral instructions.
• Break down operatory and disinfect per protocols.
• Maintain recall and scheduling with Patient Service Representatives.

Skills

Communication skills

Customer service

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Electronic Dental Records software

Job description

Columbia Basin Health Association is seeking a Dental Assistant I to support Dentists and Hygienists, ensuring operatory readiness, patient comfort, and accurate charting. The role involves patient care, instrument handling, and maintaining sterilization standards within CBHA clinics.

The position requires high school completion, CPR certification, and basic dental terminology knowledge, with responsibilities spanning clinical and non-clinical tasks.