Pediatric Dental Assistant III

Texas A&M College of Dentistry in Dallas, founded in 1905, is a nationally recognized center for oral health sciences education, research, specialized patient care, and continuing dental education. The College of Dentistry seeks a Dental Assistant III to serve in the Department of Pediatric Dentistry, providing chairside assistance to graduate students and supporting clinical operations in a fast-paced academic health environment.

Pay

Proposed minimum salary: $21.51 hourly, based on selected candidate’s qualifications.

Schedule

On-site role in Dallas, TX. Typical schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Four years of experience as a registered dental assistant in a private practice, clinic, or dental training program.

Required Licenses and Certifications

• CPR certified.
• Registered Dental Assistant.

Preferred Qualifications

• Graduation from a dental assisting program or dental assisting certificate.
• Relevant experience in a dental clinic, especially pediatric dental experience.
• Comfortable working with children of all ages.
• Excellent communication skills with both children and parents.
• Positive attitude and strong teamwork skills.
• Reliable, organized, and detail-oriented.

Skills

• Knowledge of the instruments, materials, and standardized dental procedures used in dental care.
• Knowledge of dental terminology and procedures.
• Knowledge of infectious control policies, aseptic techniques, supplies, and equipment.
• Ability to operate dental radiographic equipment.
• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Effective listening and organizational skills.
• Ability to explain complex dental procedures and policies and follow verbal and written instructions, guidelines, and objectives.
• Advanced knowledge of dental terminology.

Responsibilities

Direct Patient Care

• Performs indirect patient care procedures to include preparing the patient and treatment room for the specific type of appointment.
• Responds to student and patient inquiries regarding clinical policies and dental procedures not requiring the advice of a dentist.
• Provides direct chairside assistance to graduate students during the examination and treatment of patients.
• Utilizes four-handed dentistry procedures and anticipates and performs suction and retraction needs without interfering with the vision or access of the student.
• Monitors sedated patients.

Environmental Health Standards

• Performs disinfection/sterilization of the operatory, instruments, and equipment, according to OSHA and local policy and procedure.
• Utilizes recommended infection control procedures at all times.
• Utilizes dental materials and instruments for procedures and ensures the setups are appropriate for the dental procedure performed.

Medical Imaging

• Provides radiographic services and assists with oral photography.
• Operates dental radiographic equipment to take intraoral radiographs.
• Assists in obtaining pre-treatment and post-insertion photographic records to include retraction and mirror positioning.
• Prepares, mixes, and assists in the use of various materials, following manufacturer guidelines or the instructions of the dentist.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, life and AD&D, flexible spending accounts, and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M contributing to employee health and basic life premiums.
• 12–15 days of annual paid holidays.
• Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month.
• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.
• Health and Wellness: Free exercise programs and release time.
• Professional Development: Free LinkedIn Learning training, webinars, and limited financial support to attend conferences, workshops, and more.
• Educational release time and tuition assistance for completing a degree while a Texas A&M employee.
• Living Well, a program at Texas A&M built by employees, for employees.