Dental Surgical Assistant

Position Purpose:

The dental surgical assistant is responsible for ensuring the compassionate, effective, and efficient delivery of high-quality clinical care for patients while practicing and providing safety in the work environment. The ideal candidate will assist oral surgeons during procedures, ensuring a smooth and efficient workflow in a fast-paced environment. This role requires a strong understanding of surgical procedures, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to providing high-quality patient care.

Essential Functions:

Patient Care & Clinical Support

• Provide exemplary patient care and ensure the highest level of service during all interactions.
• Communicate with patients and families in a professional, empathetic, and educational manner.
• Prepare patients for surgical procedures, including reviewing medical histories, confirming documentation, and ensuring patient understanding of pre- and post-operative instructions.
• Assist oral surgeons throughout all surgical procedures, anticipating needs, maintaining sterile technique, and ensuring all instruments and materials are available and functional.
• Monitor and record patient vital signs during surgery, reporting concerns promptly.
• Provide postoperative care and patient education, ensuring clear communication of aftercare instructions.

Surgical & Clinical Operations

• Set up, maintain, and break down surgical operatories following strict aseptic and safety protocols.
• Sterilize, organize, and maintain surgical instruments, equipment, and supplies.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of all patient encounters and surgical procedures.
• Demonstrate strong knowledge of surgical instrumentation, oral surgery procedures, and infection control standards.
• Support sedation and anesthesia workflows in compliance with practice and regulatory requirements.

Compliance, Safety & Quality Assurance

• Adhere to all clinical, OSHA, HIPAA, and infection control standards.
• Participate in monthly safety and compliance checks, including:
  • Crash cart/verifications
  • Fire extinguisher checks
  • Emergency preparedness attestations
  • X-ray unit calibration
  • Omni-cam calibration
  • Controlled substance log accuracy and inventory
  • Oxygen tank maintenance
  • Controlled substance invoice documentation
• Ensure strict adherence to controlled substance handling and safety procedures.

Teamwork & Professional Development

• Foster a collaborative, respectful, and professional team environment.
• Participate in regular staff meetings, training sessions, and continuing education as required.
• Support workflow efficiency by maintaining organized, clean, and fully stocked clinical areas

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required (some college, preferred)
• Basic life support certification required. Employers will provide training if the candidate is not current.

Experience:

• Previous dental experience – Preferred not required
• Experience as an oral surgery assistant or dental assistant is preferred. (Will train the right candidate.)
• Basic life support certification – Employer will assist if not completed.

Performance Requirements

• Advanced knowledge of oral surgery procedures, surgical instruments, and sterile techniques.
• Strong ability to anticipate surgeon needs and respond quickly in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and patient-interaction skills.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and exercise sound judgment.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in clinical documentation.
• Proficiency with computer systems, electronic health records, and digital imaging.
• Ability to work independently while supporting a high-performance team environment.
• Positive, professional, and adaptable demeanor.