1

Dental Surgery Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dental Surgery Assistant

Avon, IN · On-site

$18.75 - $25.25/hr

Oral and Maxillofacial Assisting/Dental Assistant Certification preferred * Hepatitis B Vaccination & Titer * TB Vaccination & Titer ABOUT US ORAL SURGERY MANAGEMENT By joining US Oral Surgery ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Dental Surgery Assistant information

See salary details

$12

$20

$27

How much do dental surgery assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for dental surgery assistant in the United States is $20.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dental surgery assistant?

Dental surgery assistants are healthcare professionals who support dentists, particularly during surgical procedures. They prepare patients, sterilize instruments, assist during operations by handing tools and managing suction, and ensure that the surgical environment is clean and safe. Dental surgery assistants also help with patient care before and after procedures, keep records, and may take x-rays or prepare materials as needed. Their role is essential for the smooth operation of dental surgeries and the safety and comfort of patients.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dental surgery assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dental Surgery Assistant, you need a solid understanding of dental procedures, infection control, and patient care, often supported by a dental assisting diploma or certification. Familiarity with dental radiography, sterilization equipment, and dental practice management software is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure make a Dental Surgery Assistant stand out. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring patient safety, supporting dentists effectively, and maintaining smooth clinical operations.

What are some common challenges dental surgery assistants face during surgical procedures, and how can they effectively manage them?

Dental Surgery Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining a sterile environment, anticipating the dentist’s needs during complex procedures, and keeping patients calm and comfortable. Effective management involves thorough preparation of instruments, clear communication with the dentist and team, and building rapport with patients to ease anxiety. Staying organized and proactive in handling unexpected situations can help ensure procedures run smoothly and patient safety is maintained.

What is the difference between Dental Surgery Assistant vs Dental Hygienist?

AspectDental Surgery AssistantDental Hygienist
CredentialsCertified or trained dental assistants, often with on-the-job training or certification programsLicensed or registered dental hygienists with specific licensing requirements
Work EnvironmentAssist during dental procedures, prepare treatment rooms, and support dentists in clinicsPerform cleanings, patient education, and preventive care in dental offices
Employer & Industry UsageDental practices, clinics, and hospitalsDental practices, community health centers, and clinics

While both roles support dental health, Dental Surgery Assistants mainly assist during procedures and prepare treatment areas, whereas Dental Hygienists focus on patient cleanings and preventive care. Both require specific certifications and work closely within dental teams to ensure patient care quality.

How do I become a dental surgery assistant?

To become a dental surgery assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a dental assisting program or certification, which covers clinical skills and patient care. Certification from organizations like the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) can enhance job prospects, and on-the-job training is common for specific procedures and office protocols.
More about Dental Surgery Assistant jobs

What cities are hiring for Dental Surgery Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Dental Surgery Assistant job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Dental Surgery Assistant jobs?

The top employers for Dental Surgery Assistant jobs are:

What states have the most Dental Surgery Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Dental Surgery Assistant jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Dental Surgery Assistant jobs?

For Dental Surgery Assistant jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Dental Surgery Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,143 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Dental Surgery Assistant

Harrisonburg, VA • On-site

US Oral Surgery Management
Business Management Consulting • 11 - 50 employees

$17 - $24/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


U.S. Oral Surgery Management rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

139th of 500 rated business services


Job description

Dental Surgery Assistant

VA05 Harrisonburg - Harrisonburg, VA 22801

Overview

Salary Range $17.00 - $24.00 Hourly Position Type FT1

Description

The following position is for employment with:

Shenandoah Oral & Facial Surgery

2031 Legacy Ln, Harrisonburg, Virginia 22801

POSITION PURPOSE

Are you passionate about patient care and looking to make a difference in a surgical setting? Join our team as a Surgical Technician, where you'll assist the surgeon during consultations and surgeries, enhance patient satisfaction, and boost office efficiency. In this role, you'll provide outstanding pre-operative and post-operative care, ensuring the highest standards for our patients.

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

  • Surgical Support: Assist the doctor during surgeries, seat patients, and take vitals. Maintain competency in anesthesia monitoring, and ensure all consent forms and treatment plans are accurately completed.
  • Patient Care Expert: Provide clear and concise pre-operative and post-operative instructions to patients. Obtain necessary medical clearances and maintain excellent patient care standards.
  • Compliance and Safety Adherence: Adhere to OSHA and regulatory guidelines, ensuring radiation protection for all patients and producing radiographic images with proper exposure techniques and anatomical positioning.
  • Record Keeping and Documentation: Document and maintain accurate records/charting in compliance with established standards.
  • Equipment and Instrument Maintenance: Prepare and maintain clinical equipment and instruments, ensuring they are in good working condition for each procedure.
  • Interpersonal Relations: Maintain good rapport and cooperative relationships with patients, doctors, and team members. Approach conflicts constructively, identify problems, offer solutions, and participate in their resolution.
  • Confidentiality and Professionalism: Maintain the confidentiality of patient, clinic, and hospital information, discussing sensitive information only among appropriate personnel in private settings.
  • Patient Experience Enhancement: Provide an excellent patient experience, ensuring their comfort and satisfaction throughout their visit.
  • Adaptability and Flexibility: Accept special projects and additional responsibilities as needed, demonstrating flexibility in a dynamic work environment.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Safety Adherent: Follow strict safety guidelines and procedures according to OSHA and office standards.
  • Policy Follower: Adhere to all office policies diligently.
  • Interpersonal Dynamo: Maintain a positive rapport with patients and team members through excellent interpersonal skills.
  • Clear Communicator: Effectively communicate verbally with patients and staff in a clear and professional manner.
  • Detail-Oriented: Work efficiently with a keen eye for detail.
  • Flexible Worker: Adapt to changing job duties and work schedules as needed.
  • Active Listener: Demonstrate active listening by fully engaging in conversations, understanding points being made, asking relevant questions, and avoiding inappropriate interruptions.

Certifications and Safety Requirements:

  1. Basic CPR Certification required
  2. Oral and Maxillofacial Assisting/Dental Assistant Certification preferred
  3. Hepatitis B Vaccination & Titer
  4. TB Vaccination & Titer

ABOUT US ORAL SURGERY MANAGEMENT

By joining US Oral Surgery Management (USOSM), you become part of a dynamic and forward-thinking organization made up of best-in-class Oral and Maxillofacial practices. Together, we have the POWER to achieve more, by creating a positive impact on the communities we serve and reinforcing our position as a top leader in the industry. We believe in the POWER of teamwork, where every member contributes to our collective success. Whether you're in clinical operations, administration, support services, etc., your role is crucial to achieving our shared mission: fueling innovation and clinical excellence, while driving worthwhile outcomes for our practices.

Our POWER Values form the foundation of our ability to deliver exceptional healthcare experiences and achieve sustainable growth.

P assion for Patient Care

O utstanding Results

W inning Attitude

E mbracing Continuous Improvement

R espect for Self and Others

Please note, this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


What U.S. Oral Surgery Management employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom