Travel Dental Assistant
Grand Terrace, CA
Lux Travel Nurse
5x8 hrs, Days

Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) Position Summary

This role is primarily responsible for chairside dental assisting, supporting the dentist during procedures, ensuring patient comfort, maintaining efficient patient flow, and helping deliver high-quality dental care. The position also involves sterilization, radiography, recordkeeping, laboratory coordination, and assisting with clinical procedures within the scope of an RDA license.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide chairside assistance to the dentist during patient treatment.
• Ensure patient comfort and support throughout appointments.
• Maintain patient records and confidentiality.
• Coordinate appointments and laboratory case schedules.
• Educate patients on oral hygiene.
• Sterilize instruments and maintain sterilization logs.
• Maintain dental equipment and operatory cleanliness.
• Take, process, mount, and file dental radiographs.
• Perform duties permitted under RDA scope, including:
  • Vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate)
  • Drying root canals
  • Pulp vitality testing
  • Coronal polishing (with required certification)
  • Taking impressions and pouring/trimming models
  • Applying topical agents and fluoride
  • Assisting with nitrous oxide administration
  • Removing sutures and rubber dams
  • Fabricating temporary crowns and sizing stainless steel crowns
• Provide receptionist coverage when needed.
• Work evenings and weekends as required.
• Perform other assigned duties.

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Completion of an accredited RDA training/certification program.
• Must have passed the California Dental Board radiation examination.

Experience

• Preferred: 1+ year of clinical dental assisting experience.
• Exceptional new graduates may be considered.

Skills

• Digital radiography experience.
• Electronic dental records proficiency.
• Knowledge of infection control and sterilization procedures.
• Strong patient service and communication skills.
• Microsoft Office proficiency.

Licenses/Certifications

• Valid California Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) license.
• CPR certification required by hire date.

Additional Requirements

• Ability to work with patients of all ages.
• Cultural sensitivity and ability to work with Native American/Indian communities.
• Ability to sit, stand, bend, and walk for extended periods.

Employer Notes

• Indian preference applies in accordance with applicable federal laws.
• Drug-free and alcohol-free workplace; drug testing may be required.

Ideal Candidate Profile

A strong candidate will have an active California RDA license, radiology certification, solid chairside assisting skills, experience with digital X-rays and dental software, excellent patient care abilities, and a commitment to infection control and teamwork.