Lead Dental Assistant

Lead Dental Assistant

Role Description

The Lead Dental Assistant provides clinical leadership and support to the dental assisting team while ensuring the delivery of exceptional patient care and efficient daily clinical operations. This position serves as a resource, mentor, and role model for dental assistants, helping establish and maintain consistent clinical standards, workflows, and expectations.

The Lead Dental Assistant works closely with the dentist and office leadership to coordinate clinical activities, train and develop team members, maintain compliance with infection control and safety protocols, and ensure the clinical team is equipped to provide an outstanding patient experience. This role requires strong dental assisting experience, communication skills, initiative, accountability, and the ability to lead and motivate others.

Primary Job Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Development

• Provide day-to-day leadership, guidance, and support to the dental assisting team.
• Lead by example by demonstrating professionalism, accountability, teamwork, and a positive attitude.
• Train, mentor, and support new and existing dental assistants to ensure consistent clinical standards and expectations.
• Help onboard new clinical team members and coordinate hands-on training.
• Identify opportunities for team development and provide constructive feedback and coaching.
• Promote a positive, collaborative work environment and address concerns professionally and appropriately.
• Communicate staffing needs, performance concerns, and clinical operational issues to office leadership.
• Help ensure team members understand and consistently follow established policies, procedures, and expectations.
• Hold team members accountable while maintaining a supportive and respectful leadership approach.

Clinical Operations & Patient Care

• Oversee daily clinical workflows to support efficient patient care and minimize disruptions.
• Coordinate operatory readiness, room assignments, and clinical support needs throughout the day.
• Ensure treatment rooms are properly prepared, stocked, and maintained.
• Support the dentist by anticipating clinical needs and ensuring assistants are prepared for scheduled procedures.
• Monitor clinical schedules and help identify opportunities to improve efficiency and patient flow.
• Ensure patients receive a welcoming, comfortable, and positive experience throughout their visit.
• Assist with procedures by passing instruments, suctioning, preparing materials, and anticipating the dentist's needs.
• Take accurate impressions, obtain diagnostic radiographs, and perform other clinical duties within the legally permitted scope of practice.
• Provide patients with appropriate oral hygiene, treatment, and postoperative instructions.
• Maintain accurate and complete clinical documentation in patient records.

Compliance, Safety & Quality Control

• Ensure consistent compliance with infection control, sterilization, OSHA, HIPAA, and other applicable regulatory requirements.
• Monitor sterilization procedures and ensure instruments and equipment are properly maintained.
• Help maintain a clean, organized, and safe clinical environment.
• Ensure emergency supplies, equipment, and protocols are maintained and readily accessible.
• Maintain current CPR certification and ensure applicable clinical team requirements are met.
• Identify and communicate opportunities to improve clinical processes, safety, and patient care.
• Ensure dental equipment is properly maintained and coordinate repairs or service as needed.

Inventory & Supply Management

• Monitor dental supplies and inventory to ensure adequate stock levels.
• Anticipate supply needs, coordinate ordering, and verify receipt of materials.
• Help maintain organization and accountability within clinical supply areas.
• Identify opportunities to reduce waste and use supplies and equipment efficiently.
• Assist with evaluating new products, equipment, and clinical techniques.

Professional Development & Team Collaboration

• Maintain current dental knowledge and clinical skills through continuing education and professional development.
• Stay informed of changes in dental procedures, technology, equipment, and industry standards.
• Work collaboratively with dentists, office leadership, and other team members to support practice goals.
• Communicate effectively with the clinical team and office leadership to address operational needs.
• Take initiative in identifying problems and recommending solutions.
• Perform other related duties as needed to support the success of the practice.

 Skills and Attributes:
Dental health maintenance; use of dental technology; infection control; patient service; ability to create a safe and effective environment; active listening; teamwork; strong bedside manner; health promotion and maintenance; use of medical technology; and ability to perform diagnostic procedures

Education and Qualifications:
Dental experience required

A current resume must be uploaded to be considered for the position.