Dental Assistant (HPCSA)

The Recruitment Guy (Pty) Ltd; Newcastle; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable dental practice in Newcastle is seeking an HPCSA Registered Dental Assistant. The role involves providing chair-side assistance, ensuring infection control, and engaging with patients. Ideal candidates will have a compassionate demeanor, relevant experience, and must be registered with HPCSA. This position offers stability and growth within a supportive team.

Benefits

Opportunity for long-term stability

Ongoing mentorship

Compassionate work environment

Qualifications

• HPCSA Registrations must be active.
• 1-2 years experience in a private dental practice.
• Fluency in English; Afrikaans/Zulu is an advantage.
• Knowledge of dental materials and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Provide efficient chair-side assistance during clinical procedures.
• Ensure strict adherence to infection control policies.
• Assist with administrative duties when required.

Skills

Compassion

Detail-oriented

Patient care

Infection control

Chair-side etiquette

Education

HPCSA Registered Dental Assistant

Tools

Dental software

Job description

Overview

A reputable and patient-focused private dental practice in Newcastle is seeking a HPCSA Registered Dental Assistant to join their professional team.

The ideal candidate must be compassionate, detail-oriented, and dedicated to delivering high-quality clinical support and patient care in a calm and organised environment.

To provide efficient chair-side assistance to the dentist during clinical procedures, while ensuring optimal infection control standards, patient comfort, and administrative support where required.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Chair-Side Assistance: Prepare treatment rooms before procedures, ensuring instruments and materials are sterilised and ready
• Assist the dentist during procedures including examinations, restorations, and minor surgeries
• Suction, retract, and pass instruments efficiently
• Mix dental materials (cements, impression materials, etc.) as required
• Take and develop digital X-rays if qualified

Patient Interaction

• Greet and prepare patients before procedures
• Offer reassurance and explain procedures clearly to patients
• Record and update patient dental and medical histories accurately
• Provide post-procedure instructions as directed by the dentist

Infection Control & Stock

• Adhere strictly to cross-infection control policies
• Disinfect and sterilise all instruments and working surfaces
• Ensure stock levels are maintained and request supplies where needed
• Ensure equipment is in good working condition and report faults

Administrative Duties (as required)

• Assist with booking appointments and follow-ups
• Maintain accurate records of procedures and billing
• Liaise with suppliers and labs when needed
• Assist with reception when short-staffed

Requirements

• HPCSA Registered Dental Assistant (Active registration essential)
• Minimum 1-2 year relevant experience in a private dental practice
• Fluent in English (Afrikaans/Zulu an advantage)
• Knowledge of dental materials, procedures, and chairside etiquette
• Basic computer literacy (familiar with dental software and general admin)
• Professional, neat and empathetic bedside manner
• Must reside in or be willing to relocate to Newcastle

Advantageous

• Exposure to aesthetic, paediatric or prosthodontic dentistry
• Previous experience with Elixir or similar dental software

Working Hours

• Monday to Friday: 08h00 – 17h00
• Saturday mornings: 08h00 – 13h00 (rotational or as scheduled) one Saturday per month
• Flexibility for emergency call-ins or late finishes appreciated

Why Join our client?

• Join a compassionate and well-regarded dental team rooted in the Newcastle community
• Work in a professional yet friendly setting with a strong focus on patient wellbeing
• Opportunity for long-term stability and growth within the practice
• Supportive working environment with ongoing mentorship from an experienced practitioner