Senior Dental Assistant

University Hospital, Newark; New Jersey; On-site; USD 40,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

An established healthcare provider seeks a Senior Dental Assistant to deliver exceptional patient care and support clinical operations. This role involves mentoring junior staff, assisting in dental procedures, and ensuring a clean and safe environment. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in dental assisting, with certifications and experience in patient care. Join a dedicated team focused on providing quality dental services to a diverse patient population, from neonates to seniors. This position offers a dynamic work environment where your contributions will directly impact patient health and satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Completion of an accredited Dental Assisting Program and certification required.
• Must hold a valid New Jersey Dental Radiologic Technology License.

Responsibilities

• Provide administrative and clinical support for the clinic.
• Assist in planning and evaluating patient care.
• Prepare dental equipment and assist during procedures.

Skills

Customer Service Skills

Basic Dental Procedures

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Education

High School Diploma

Accredited Dental Assisting Program

Certification as a Dental Assistant

CPR Certification

Tools

Dental Equipment

Job description

Overview

The primary purpose of the Senior Dental Assistant position is to provide administrative and clinical support for the clinic. The role includes mentoring and precepting Dental Assistants, ordering and maintaining supplies, assisting doctors and nurses with patient care plans, and providing direct patient care. The assistant performs simple dental procedures, supports professional staff in patient evaluation and treatment, and maintains the cleanliness and orderliness of the unit. The position involves chairside assistance during dental procedures under local anesthesia and requires competency across all procedures within the scope of practice, serving patients from neonatal to end of life.

Responsibilities

1. Exhibit strong customer service skills in interactions with the public, patients, staff, and physicians.
2. Assist in providing direction, problem solving, and mentorship to Dental Assistant staff.
3. Monitor and record physiological parameters such as blood pressure, temperature, pulse, respiration, and oral intake/output.
4. Participate in planning and evaluating patient care by communicating pertinent patient information.
5. Prepare dental equipment, instruments, and supplies needed for surgical/dental procedures prior to cases.
6. Assist providers during examinations and treatments, including procedures under local anesthesia and Nitrous Oxide.

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent required, along with completion of an accredited Dental Assisting Program. Certification as a Dental Assistant, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Anesthesia Assistant, and related experience (minimum four years) are required. CPR certification is also required.

Applicants must be able to perform basic procedures such as taking temperatures, pulse, blood pressures, and other simple assessments. Registration with the New Jersey Board of Dentistry as a Registered Dental Assistant and possession of a valid Dental Radiologic Technology License issued by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection are mandatory.

Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel is required. The candidate must be able to read, write, speak, understand, and communicate effectively in English.

Credential requirements: Certification in Dental Assisting, NJ Dental Radiologic Technology License, BLS (CPR).

Verification sources: NJ Bureau of Radiological Health, NJ Division of Consumer Affairs, Board of Dentistry; University Hospital's designated Background Check Company.

Physical Demands

The position requires standing and walking for approximately two-thirds of the time, sitting for one-third, frequent use of hands, reaching, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling, and talking or hearing over two-thirds of the time. The role involves lifting up to 25 lbs. for up to two-thirds of the time.

Work Environment

The environment involves moderate noise levels typical of a busy office with computers and printers, with exposure to blood-borne pathogens requiring the use of personal protective equipment.