Position Summary Surgery Assistants play a critical role in the delivery of safe and efficient pediatric dental treatment under sedation and general anesthesia. They provide direct chairside support to the Dentist and anesthesia team before, during, and after surgical procedures. Surgery Assistants are responsible for preparing treatment areas, assisting with patient monitoring, maintaining surgical readiness, and supporting quality patient care throughout the surgical process. The position requires flexibility, adaptability, and the ability to remain calm and focused in a fast-paced procedural environment. Based on surgery schedules and patient needs, work hours may vary from a traditional dental assistant schedule. This position is based on the duties of the Dental Assistant position with additional responsibilities related to surgical patient care and sedation procedures. Essential Functions To accomplish this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform — with or without reasonable accommodation — each essential function satisfactorily. Prepare patients for dental procedures by helping them feel comfortable before, during, and after treatment. Maintain proper and efficient patient flow management. Set up instrument trays, prepare materials, and assist the Dentist during dental procedures. Take and expose dental diagnostic x-rays. Responsible for x-ray sensor care and adherence to handling guidelines. Take and record medical and dental histories and vital signs of patients. Chart existing and proposed treatment in patient management software. Assist the Dentist in the management of medical or dental procedures. Provide preoperative explanations and postoperative instructions prescribed by the Dentist. Record treatment information in patient records. Smiling Faces Pediatric Dentistry Surgery Assistant Job Description — Full Time Sterilize and disinfect instruments and operatories. Assist the Dentist during sedation and general anesthesia procedures. Prepare surgical operatories, instruments, materials, and equipment prior to surgical appointments. Verify surgical documentation, consent forms, medical clearances, and required pre-operative information. Obtain and document patient vital signs before, during, and after treatment as directed. Assist in monitoring sedated patients and promptly communicate concerns to the Dentist or anesthesia provider. Maintain awareness of emergency equipment locations and assist during medical emergencies when directed. Provide postoperative care instructions and assist with patient discharge procedures. Ensure recovery areas are prepared, stocked, and maintained according to office protocols. Respond appropriately to schedule changes, treatment delays, emergency add-on cases, and unforeseen patient needs. Demonstrate the ability to remain calm, focused, and professional during surgical procedures and emergency situations. Assist with surgical inventory management and maintenance of emergency supplies and medications. Be comfortable working in close proximity to sedated and anesthetized pediatric patients throughout procedures and recovery. Comply with Smiling Faces policies and procedures, OSHA policies and procedures, and HIPAA policies and procedures. May be required to relocate to other Smiling Faces clinics — permanently or short-term — due to office needs at the discretion of management. Complete other administrative and maintenance tasks as assigned by management. Maintain regular and reliable attendance. Skills & Abilities Education & Experience Completion of a Dental Assisting Program or a minimum of one year of experience as a Dental Assistant. Certifications & Licenses Current Oklahoma Dental Assisting Permit required. Current CPR certification required. Computer Skills Efficiently operates assigned computer software and other equipment, including Fuse, DentalBytes and Microsoft Office Suite. Other Requirements Valid driver's license, proof of valid vehicle insurance, and annual Motor Vehicle Record check required if operating Company-owned vehicles or driving a personal vehicle for Company business. Understands HIPAA to ensure patient privacy. Demonstrates a clear understanding of sterilization systems and infection control. Uses personal protective equipment at all times according to State of Oklahoma and Federal guidelines. Knowledgeable of CDT codes and must pass the CDT test within 20 days of employment.
Working knowledge of:
amalgam and composite fillings; extractions; pulpotomy and stainless steel crown; and prophylaxis. Smiling Faces Pediatric Dentistry Surgery Assistant Job Description — Full Time Must sign the Hepatitis B Vaccination Form — declining or accepting the vaccination — within 30 days of employment. Surgery-Specific Requirements Must be comfortable assisting with procedures involving patients receiving sedation or general anesthesia. Must demonstrate the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced surgical environment. Must be flexible with varying work schedules based on surgery days and patient treatment needs. Must be able to adapt quickly to schedule changes, urgent situations, and procedural emergencies. Must maintain composure and professionalism while supporting surgical and anesthesia teams. Position Qualifications Accountability — Accepts responsibility and accounts for his/her actions. Adaptability — Adapts to change in the workplace. Adaptability Under Pressure — Effectively responds to unexpected patient needs, schedule changes, and urgent situations. Situational Awareness — Maintains awareness of patient condition, provider needs, and procedural progress. Emotional Resilience — Performs effectively during stressful or emergency situations. Customer Oriented — Takes care of customers' needs while following company procedures. Ethical — Conduct conforms to a set of values and accepted standards. Detail Oriented — Pays attention to the minute details of a project or task. Initiative — Makes decisions or takes actions to solve a problem or reach a goal. Accuracy — Performs work accurately and thoroughly. Enthusiastic — Brings energy to the performance of a task. Friendly — Exhibits a cheerful demeanor toward others. Critical Thinking — Quickly evaluates situations and responds appropriately within established protocols. Teamwork — Works collaboratively with dentists, anesthesiologists, surgical staff, and administrative teams to ensure patient safety. Working Under Pressure — Completes assigned tasks in stressful situations. Time Management — Organizes and completes work within given deadlines. Communication (Oral) — Communicates effectively using the spoken word. Safety Awareness — Identifies and corrects conditions that affect employee safety.
Honesty / Integrity
— Is truthful and seen as credible in the workplace. Energetic — Works at a sustained pace and produces quality work.
Pay:
$18.00 - $26.00 per hour Expected hours: 40.0 per week
Benefits:
Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance