Dental Assistant

About Us South Cairns Dental About You Certificate III in Dental Assisting (or working towards completion). Current First Aid & CPR Certification (preferred). Infection Control Training (preferred). Position Summary The Dental Assistant & Receptionist at South Cairns Dental plays a vital role in ensuring seamless clinic operations by providing both clinical support and front office management. This dual role requires flexibility to assist chairside during procedures while also handling patient enquiries, appointment scheduling, and administrative tasks at reception. The role is suited to an organised, patient‑focused individual who can efficiently manage both clinical and customer service responsibilities, ensuring an excellent experience for patients and smooth daily operations for the dental team. Key Requirements Minimum 1-2 years experience in a dental assisting and / or receptionist role (preferred). Experience in a fast‑paced customer service or healthcare environment is desirable. Familiarity with infection control procedures and dental terminology is an advantage. Essential Skills Ability to multitask between chairside assisting and reception duties. Strong customer service and patient care skills. High level of organisation and attention to detail. Proficiency in appointment scheduling and administrative duties. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Knowledge of infection control and sterilisation procedures. Desirable Skills Experience with dental practice management software (e.g., EXACT, D4W, or similar). Knowledge of health fund claims processing and HICAPS transactions. Ability to manage patient anxiety with a calm and reassuring approach. Job Responsibility Clinical Support & Chairside Assisting Assist dentists during procedures by preparing instruments, passing materials, and ensuring smooth workflow. Provide chairside support for general, restorative, surgical, and cosmetic dental treatments. Maintain a calm and reassuring presence to support patient comfort and reduce anxiety. Prepare, sterilise, and organise instruments and equipment following infection control protocols. Ensure treatment rooms are cleaned, restocked, and prepared for each patient. Patient Care & Communication Greet and prepare patients for treatment, ensuring they feel comfortable and informed. Provide post‑treatment care instructions and answer patient questions where appropriate. Support anxious or nervous patients by offering reassurance and a positive experience. Maintain strict confidentiality and professionalism when handling patient records and interactions. Front Office & Reception Duties Greet and welcome patients, creating a friendly and professional first impression. Manage appointment bookings, cancellations, and patient recalls, optimising daily scheduling. Answer phone and email enquiries, providing clear and helpful information. Process patient payments, invoices, and health fund claims via HICAPS. Maintain accurate and organised patient records, ensuring compliance with confidentiality regulations. Monitor waiting times and inform patients of any scheduling changes. Administrative & Practice Support Coordinate with dentists, hygienists, and assistants to ensure smooth patient flow. Assist in maintaining a clean and organised reception and waiting area. Order and manage front office and clinical supplies, ensuring adequate stock levels. Support the practice with marketing activities, patient retention strategies, and recall systems. Follow all workplace policies, including data protection, confidentiality, and infection control guidelines. Team Collaboration & Professional Development Work closely with both clinical and administrative teams to ensure seamless operations. Participate in training sessions and upskilling opportunities to enhance both chairside and front office skills. Provide support to colleagues as needed, ensuring efficiency in both reception and clinical areas. Professionalism & Workplace Conduct Uphold South Cairns Dental’s workplace conduct expectations, including punctuality, respectful communication, and adherence to all professional and ethical standards. Maintain strict patient confidentiality and avoid discussing work‑related matters outside of appropriate settings. Present a professional image at all times, ensuring compliance with the dress code, hygiene, and workplace behaviour guidelines. Avoid any form of workplace gossip, inappropriate discussions, or conduct that may compromise the professional reputation of South Cairns Dental. Adhere to all workplace policies regarding technology use, social media, and external communication. Job Functions Administration Job Benefits TBC Selling Point Hourly rate is commensurate with experience. Contact Jess Nolan #J-18808-Ljbffr