Lead Dental Assistant

POSITION SUMMARY: The Lead Dental Assistant serves in a hybrid clinical and operational leadership role within the dental department. This position is responsible for providing chairside dental assisting support while also coordinating the day-to-day operations of the dental clinic to ensure efficient workflow, quality patient care, regulatory compliance, and optimal provider productivity. The Lead Dental Assistant assists with supervision of dental support staff, scheduling coordination, supply management, patient flow, dental billing support, and compliance activities consistent with Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) standards and Mid-Delta Health Systems policies. This position supports the organization's mission by promoting accessible, high-quality oral healthcare services for underserved populations.

RESPONSIBILITIES: Clinical Dental Assisting Duties

Provide chairside dental assisting during examinations and procedures. Prepare treatment rooms, instruments, and materials for patient care. Take dental radiographs in accordance with state regulations and certifications. Sterilize instruments and maintain infection control procedures consistent with OSHA and CDC guidelines. Assist with patient intake, chart preparation, and documentation in the electronic health record. Educate patients regarding oral hygiene, preventive care, and post-procedure instructions. Assist providers with restorative, preventive, and emergency dental procedures. Operational and Office Management Duties Coordinate daily dental clinic workflow and patient scheduling. Monitor appointment schedules to maximize provider productivity and minimize gaps in care. Assist with management of patient recalls and follow-up appointments. Support front desk operations including insurance verification and patient registration processes. Assist with oversight of dental billing workflows and coordination with revenue cycle staff. Monitor and address claim issues, scheduling concerns, and operational inefficiencies.

Staff Leadership and Support

Assist with onboarding and training of dental assistants and support staff. Provide day-to-day guidance and support to dental team members. Promote teamwork, professionalism, and positive workplace culture. Communicate operational concerns and recommendations to leadership.

Supplies and Equipment Management

Maintain inventory of dental supplies and materials. Coordinate ordering of dental supplies and monitor inventory levels. Assist with tracking equipment maintenance and repair needs. Ensure operatories remain organized, stocked, and operational.

Compliance and Quality Improvement

Ensure adherence to infection control and safety procedures. Support compliance with: HRSA/FQHC requirements HIPAA regulations OSHA standards CDC infection control guidelines Participate in quality improvement and performance improvement initiatives. Assist with preparation for audits, inspections, and HRSA Operational Site Visits.

Community Outreach Support

Assist with school-based dental sealant programs and community outreach activities as assigned. Support oral health education initiatives within the community.

Other duties assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

High school diploma or GED required. Completion of accredited dental assisting program preferred. Current Dental Assistant certification preferred. Current radiology certification required if performing radiographs. CPR certification required.

STATUS: This is a FLSA Non-Exempt position. This is an OSHA low risk position. This is an ADA negotiable position. This is a safety sensitive position. Mid-Delta follows state and federal vaccine recommendations.