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Chair Side Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dental Assistant

Boston, MA

$22.62 - $25.38/hr

Serves as dentist's or dental hygienist's chair-side assistant * Prepares operatory for patient treatment as per Dental Department protocols and the dentist's or dental hygienist's directions

Dental Assistant

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$22.62 - $25.38/hr

Serves as dentist's or dental hygienist's chair-side assistant * Prepares operatory for patient treatment as per Dental Department protocols and the dentist's or dental hygienist's directions

Dental Assistant

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$21.59 - $23.25/hr

Serves as Dentist's chair-side assistant during patient visits. 3. Prepares patients for x-rays and properly exposes and develops dental radiographs in accordance with state regulations and law as ...

Dental Assistant

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$21.59 - $23.25/hr

Serves as Dentist's chair-side assistant during patient visits. 3. Prepares patients for x-rays and properly exposes and develops dental radiographs in accordance with state regulations and law as ...

Dental Assistant

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$22.62 - $25.38/hr

Serves as dentist's or dental hygienist's chair-side assistant * Prepares operatory for patient treatment as per Dental Department protocols and the dentist's or dental hygienist's directions

Serves as dentist's or dental hygienist's chair-side assistant * Prepares operatory for patient treatment as per Dental Department protocols and the dentist's or dental hygienist's directions

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Chair Side Assistant information

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How much do chair side assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for chair side assistant in the United States is $20.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Chair Side Assistant vs Dental Assistant?

AspectChair Side AssistantDental Assistant
CertificationsOften requires dental assisting certification or CDA credentialTypically requires dental assisting certification or CDA credential
Work EnvironmentAssists dentists during procedures, works in dental officesSupports dental team, manages patient records, sterilizes equipment
Job DutiesPrepares treatment rooms, hands instruments, assists during proceduresPatient prep, sterilization, administrative tasks, assisting during procedures

Both Chair Side Assistants and Dental Assistants work in dental offices, often share certifications, and support dental procedures. The main difference lies in the focus: Chair Side Assistants primarily assist during treatments, while Dental Assistants have broader responsibilities including administrative tasks. Understanding these roles helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are Chair Side Assistants?

Chair Side Assistants, also known as dental assistants, work directly with dentists during patient examinations and treatments. They help by preparing patients, sterilizing instruments, handing tools to the dentist, and ensuring the treatment area remains clean and organized. Additionally, they may take dental x-rays, manage patient records, and provide support to ensure procedures run smoothly and efficiently. Their role is crucial for maintaining a safe and comfortable environment for both patients and dental professionals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chair Side Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chair Side Assistant, you need a solid understanding of dental procedures, infection control, and dental terminology, often supported by a dental assistant certificate or diploma. Familiarity with dental software, digital X-rays, and sterilization equipment is typically required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure efficient dental procedures, patient comfort, and a safe clinical environment.

What are some typical challenges a Chair Side Assistant might face during a busy clinic day, and how can they manage them effectively?

Chair Side Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple patients simultaneously, adapting quickly to changes in the dentist's schedule, and ensuring all instruments and materials are properly sterilized and ready. Effective time management and clear communication with both the dental team and patients are key to overcoming these challenges. Staying organized and anticipating the dentist's needs can also help maintain a smooth workflow, especially on high-volume days.
More about Chair Side Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Chair Side Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Chair Side Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Chair Side Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Chair Side Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Chair Side Assistant job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,296 per year, or $20.8 per hour.
REGISTERED DENTAL ASSISTANT - REDWOOD CITY

REGISTERED DENTAL ASSISTANT - REDWOOD CITY

RAVENSWOOD FAMILY HEALTH CENTER

Redwood City, CA โ€ข On-site

$32 - $40/hr

Other

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

*PLEASE NOTE*

For any inquiries, kindly refrain from contacting the dental clinic directly.

Instead, please email HR@RavenswoodFHN.org or call our HR office at (650) 617-7819.

ORGANIZATION

The mission of Ravenswood Family Health Network (RFHN) is to improve the health of the community by providing culturally sensitive, integrated primary and preventative health care to all, regardless of ability to pay or immigration status, and collaborating with community partners to address the social determinants of health.

Ravenswood Family Dentistry (RFD) is a dental clinic located in East Palo Alto, Redwood City and satelite locations on the Mobile van, The Primary School and the operating room. The initial training will be provided at the East Palo Alto location. We provide dental care to people of all ages, regardless of their ability to pay. As a multi-cultural community dental clinic, our goal is to provide excellent dental care to our patients.

POSITION SUMMARY

Under direct supervision, the Registered Dental Assistant is tasked with assisting dental providers with all treatments. This position serves as the dentistโ€™s or dental hygienistโ€™s chair-side assistant and is responsible for preparing operatories and instruments for patient treatment, taking accurate dental radiographs, assures that all patient records and documents are properly and accurately documented in the electronic dental record, sanitizes operatories and participates in appropriate health promotion/disease prevention activities, both on-site and off-site as required, assists with inventory, sterilization, and other duties as assigned. The Registered Dental Assistant is able to perform independent dental procedures as delegated and directed by the dentist in accordance with state regulations and laws and Dental Department protocols.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

To be performed in accordance with RFHN Policies and Procedures

  1. Ensure patient enjoy a positive experience and are treated with care and compassion.
  2. Ensure all patient records and related documents are managed and maintained timely, accurately and consistent with all HIPAA and related regulations and requirements.
  3. Manage patient flow to maximize patient access and service by ensuring dental exam rooms are adequately stocked and ready for patients.
  4. Assist patients in completing forms, answering their questions and giving directions to patients as authorized by the dentist and hygienist.
  5. Serve'sย as the dental provider's chair-side assistant in the delivery of four handed dentistry.
  6. Prepares operatories for patient treatment as per the dental provider's directions.
  7. Help patients feel comfortable before, during and after dental treatment.
  8. Prepares patients for dental visit by taking and recording vital signs and medical/dental histories.
  9. Clean, sterilize and maintain an adequate supply of functioning instruments and equipment.
  10. Sets up, takes and confirms that dental radiographs are accurate as ordered.
  11. Places sealants and varnishes as ordered and directed.
  12. Follows OSHA infection control guidelines and RDF infection control policies and procedures.
  13. Performs independent procedures allowed by state licensure: placement of sealants, fabricating and cementing provisional restorations, adjust dentures extra-orally, coronal polishing of teeth , temporary restorations as delegated and directed by the dentist.
  14. Maintains dental equipment and areas in accordance with manufacture's directions and Dental Department policy and protocol.
  15. Maintains adequate operatory supplies and compiles a list of individual item shortages for inventory control and ordering purposes.
  16. Assists with various clinical and administrative functions as appropriate.
  17. Ensures the proper disposal of all materials in accordance with Dental Department directive, center policy, as well as state and federal regulation(s).
  18. Other duties as assigned and requested.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School diploma or GED required.
  • California RDA license required.
  • California Sealant Certification highly desirable
  • Certificate of completion from an accredited course in dental assisting and minimum one year of experience as a Dental Assistant outside of externship -OR- 18 months full-time verified Dentist-supervised dental assisting prior to receiving RDA license.
  • Bilingual English/Spanish proficiency required.
  • Current BLS (CPR) Certification.
  • Computer literate in a Windows environment; familiarity using dental electronic record OCHIN Wisdom, a plus.
  • Exceptional customer service skills.
  • Reliable, organized, detail oriented; able to understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
  • Able to maintain complex records and files; and to meet and deal effectively with the public.
  • Ability to work with all types of clients regardless of their immigration, race, housing or financial status.
  • Ability to create a welcoming and comfortable experience for patients and support the dental team in delivering outstanding care.
  • Commitment to support and implement the philosophy, goals, and objectives of RFHN.
  • Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple tasks.
  • Up to date with COVID-19 vaccines per current CDC guidelines strongly recommended.

The pay range for this position is $32.00 to $40.00 per hour. However, the final base pay will be determined upon a number of individualized factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, education and certification levels, and departmental budget. We also consider internal equity with our current employees when making final offers.

Ravenswood Family Health Network is an equal opportunity employer.