Dental Assistant

Dental Assistant – Full-Time (32 hrs/wk, Mon–Thu) Practice: Frerichs Dental Location: Champaign, IL About Us At Frerichs Dental, dentistry is more than just fixing teeth—it is about helping our friends and neighbors lead happier, healthier lives. Located in Champaign, our family-friendly practice focuses heavily on patient care, custom comfort, and education. We are seeking a reliable, detail-oriented Dental Assistant with a warm and empathetic personality to join our dedicated team. We are looking for the right candidate who brings a positive attitude, an eagerness to learn, and a passion for patient comfort. You will perform basic supportive dental procedures under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist. Key Responsibilities & Duties Clinical & Chairside Assistance Provide chairside assistance during a variety of general and cosmetic procedures (e.g., fillings, CEREC® same-day crowns, implants, root canals, and extractions). Set up and break down treatment rooms, ensuring all instruments are organized and ready before patient arrival. Operate suction devices and hand instruments smoothly during clinical procedures. Operate dental X-ray equipment safely to perform digital radiographs and diagnostic imaging. Mix dental materials (e.g., cements, impression materials) and pour/trim diagnostic models. Clinical Flow & Supply Logistics Supply Rotation: Ensure all operatories are fully stocked ahead of scheduled procedures. Track material expiration dates and maintain a clean central inventory hub. Procurement Management: Order, receive, and unpack dental and office supplies. Verify shipments against invoices, resolve vendor discrepancies, and organize items. Lab Case Management: Manage the timely shipment of outgoing dental laboratory cases and track incoming cases to ensure arrival ahead of appointments. Patient Care, Comfort & Education Welcome and prepare patients for treatment, using an approachable and friendly demeanor to ease their nerves. Support patient comfort amenities (such as utilizing gravity blankets, pillows, or stress balls) to ensure anxious patients feel safe and relaxed. Educate patients on proper oral hygiene strategies, postoperative care instructions, and preventative practices. Maintain composure and a gentle tone when handling difficult patient reactions. Compliance, Collaboration & Administration Sterilize and disinfect dental instruments and equipment in strict compliance with safety, sanitation, and privacy guidelines (OSHA/infection control protocols). Proactive Problem Solving: Demonstrate a high level of initiative by anticipating clinical and administrative needs, staying one step ahead of the daily schedule, and solving potential bottlenecks. Collaborate enthusiastically with Dr. Frerichs, our doctor assistants, our hygienists, and front-desk staff to maintain an efficient, positive team environment. Accurately record treatment notes and update electronic patient charts. Assist front-office operations as needed, including scheduling appointments and answering phone calls. Ideal Personality Profile & Soft Skills Eagerness to Learn: Highly motivated to learn new clinical technical skills, dental terminology, and procedural flows. High Empathy & Compassion: Naturally senses patient discomfort or anxiety and works proactively to make them feel safe and cared for. Positive, Upbeat Energy: Brings a welcoming smile and optimistic attitude to the office every day, fostering a pleasant environment for both patients and coworkers. Strong Emotional Intelligence: Picks up on non-verbal cues from patients who may be too nervous or unable to speak during a procedure. Adaptable Team Player: Thrives in a fast-paced environment, switches tasks easily when priorities change, and maintains a "how can I help?" mindset. Qualifications & Requirements Education: High school diploma or equivalent. Experience: Prior dental assisting experience and knowledge is strongly preferred . Technical Skill…

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