Job Description

Job TitleReports ToStatusLocation

POSITION SUMMARY

The Lead Dental Assistant provides high-quality patient care and supports dentists and staff in clinical, office, and laboratory duties. This role ensures the efficiency and productivity of patient flow through timely, accurate preparation of patients and documentation, including radiographs. In addition to standard dental assisting responsibilities, the Lead Dental Assistant takes primary responsibility for:

Leading clinic compliance with Infection Control, HIPAA, and OSHA guidelines Coordinating and monitoring patient flow to maintain efficiency and minimize wait times Overseeing supply ordering, inventory control, and operatory readiness Supporting and mentoring dental assistants to maintain consistent clinical standards

PRIMARY ACCOUNTABILITIES

Achieve Results

Ensure patients receive compassionate, high-quality care and a positive clinic experience. Maintain patient records and documents in full compliance with HIPAA and applicable regulations. Support accurate billing and timely collection of service information.
Operational Excellence

Lead implementation and adherence to infection control protocols and OSHA safety requirements. Ensure all tasks associated with patient care and administration comply with regulatory, accreditation, and clinic standards. Manage daily patient flow to optimize provider schedules and minimize delays.
Relationships

Instruct patients and families on oral health and post-treatment care as appropriate. Foster collaborative relationships with all clinic staff to promote smooth operations.
Stewardship and Professionalism

Represent the clinic with professionalism and uphold organizational values. Oversee ordering, stocking, and tracking of dental supplies to maintain cost efficiency and readiness.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Prepare and maintain dental instruments, materials, and equipment; ensure sterilization and operatory turnover according to infection control standards. Collect and document patient health histories for dentist review. Assist dentist chairside, preparing instruments, materials, and aiding during procedures. Take and process x-rays in compliance with safety protocols. Provide oral hygiene instructions and patient education. Follow through with post-treatment duties, including documentation and room preparation. Serve as the infection control officer, ensuring logs, sterilization records, and compliance audits are maintained. Train and mentor dental assistants on clinical procedures, infection control, HIPAA, and OSHA compliance. Order and track supplies; manage vendor relations to ensure adequate inventory levels without overstocking. Act as point of contact for patient flow coordination and clinical problem-solving during daily operations.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS

Education & Certification:

High school diploma or equivalent Completion of accredited dental assistant program Radiation safety certification Current CPR certification OSHA & HIPAA compliance training (required; leadership-level preferred)
Experience:

Minimum 3 years of dental assisting experience, preferably in a leadership capacity Demonstrated knowledge of dental procedures, infection control, sterilization, and safety protocols Proven skills in scheduling, patient coordination, and inventory management Strong organizational and leadership abilities Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Working Conditions:

Normal dental clinic environment with routine exposure to bloodborne pathogens Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 25 lbs Use of hands for clinical instruments and equipment operation
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by personnel assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. Job duties to be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $20.00 - $24.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid sick time Paid time off Vision insurance
Education:

High school or equivalent (Required)
Experience:

Dental assisting: 3 years (Required)
License/Certification:

Certified Dental Assistant (Required) Radiation Health & Safety Certification (Required) Certification in Infection Prevention & Control (Required)
Work Location: In person