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CD
Cedar Dental
Dental Assistant
Career Insights for Dental Assistant
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Based on Oregon data
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What they do
A Dental Assistant assists dentists in caring for patient's teeth. Helps patients get ready for treatment; prepares equipment and supplies. May perform some dental procedures under the direction of a dentist, such as fluoride application, if allowed under state regulations. Works in dental offices.
$52,404 / year median in Oregon
+14% projected growth
Job Description
Position Summary The Dental Assistant supports dentists and the clinical team in providing efficient, high-quality general dental care. This is a hands-on chairside position requiring strong clinical assisting skills, excellent patient communication, attention to infection-control standards, and the ability to help maintain an organized and productive clinical environment. Key Responsibilities Provide chairside assistance for general dentistry procedures, including restorative dentistry, crown and bridge, extractions, endodontics, removable prosthetics, and other procedures within the assistant's training and certification. Prepare operatories, instruments, materials, and equipment before patient treatment. Take diagnostic dental radiographs as permitted by Oregon certification and applicable regulations. Assist with digital impressions, intraoral scanning, photography, and other dental technology used by the practice. Maintain proper sterilization, infection-control, and OSHA standards. Turn over and restock operatories efficiently between patients. Review the daily schedule and anticipate the dentist's clinical needs. Support efficient patient flow and help keep providers on schedule. Accurately document treatment, clinical information, and other required information in the patient's chart. Provide patients with instructions and education as directed by the treating dentist. Assist with dental emergencies and same-day treatment when necessary. Monitor clinical supplies and communicate ordering or inventory needs to the appropriate lead. Maintain dental equipment and promptly report equipment or facility issues. Work collaboratively with dentists, hygienists, front-office staff, other dental assistants, and clinic leadership. Assist with sterilization, laboratory cases, room setup, and other clinical duties when needed. Help maintain a clean, professional, patient-focused clinical environment. Follow Cedar Dental policies, clinical protocols, HIPAA requirements, and all applicable Oregon dental regulations. Perform other duties within the scope of the Dental Assistant position as assigned. Qualifications Dental assisting experience preferred. Oregon radiologic proficiency and other applicable certifications preferred or required based on assigned duties. EFDA certification preferred. Current BLS/CPR certification. Strong chairside assisting and organizational skills. Ability to work effectively in a busy general dentistry environment. Dependable, professional, and comfortable working as part of a team. Ability to communicate effectively with patients, providers, and coworkers. Position Expectations The Dental Assistant is expected to be an active member of the clinical team and may be assigned to different providers, operatories, or clinical responsibilities based on patient volume and the operational needs of Cedar Dental. The position requires flexibility, teamwork, consistent attendance, and a willingness to assist throughout the clinic when needed.