Dental Assistant/CSR in Augusta, Georgia at Neighborhood Improvement Project Inc

Position Summary

The Dental Assistant / Customer Service Representative (CSR) supports the efficient operation of dental services by performing both chairside clinical assistance and front-office customer service functions. This role delivers high-quality, patient-centered care in alignment with FQHC standards and organizational policies, including Good Faith Estimate (GFE) requirements and Sliding Fee Scale (SFS) processes. The position requires professionalism, technical competence, attention to detail, and cultural sensitivity in a fast-paced dental clinic environment.

Responsibilities and Duties

Clinical Support

• Assist the dentist during dental procedures, including chairside support, instrument transfer, and suctioning.
• Prepare and sterilize instruments and equipment in accordance with infection control and OSHA standards.
• Prepare patients for treatment and provide post-procedure instructions as directed by the dentist.
• Accurately document treatments, procedures, and clinical notes in the Electronic Health Record (EHR).
• Maintain operatory readiness, including equipment checks, room turnover, and supply stocking.

Customer Service & Front Office Operations

• Schedule, confirm, and manage patient appointments to support clinic flow and access to care.
• Greet, register, and check in patients with professionalism, courtesy, and respect.
• Answer incoming calls and respond to patient inquiries regarding services, scheduling, and financial assistance options.
• Maintain patient demographic and insurance information in compliance with HIPAA and organizational policies.
• Coordinate referrals and follow up with specialty providers as needed.
• Assist with inventory control, including ordering, receiving, and tracking dental and office supplies.

Compliance & Quality

• Inform patients of Sliding Fee Scale (SFS) eligibility and Good Faith Estimates (GFE) in compliance with the No Surprises Act.
• Adhere to all infection control, OSHA, HIPAA, and FQHC regulatory requirements.
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives, staff meetings, and required trainings.
• Support a safe, respectful, and patient-focused clinical environment.

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of dental terminology, procedures, and chairside assisting techniques.
• Familiarity with Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems and basic computer applications (e.g., Microsoft Office).
• Strong customer service, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
• Understanding of HIPAA, Sliding Fee Scale (SFS), and Good Faith Estimate (GFE) requirements.

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Completion of an ADA-accredited Dental Assisting program or equivalent training preferred.
• Current CPR/BLS certification required or obtained within a designated timeframe.

Experience

• Two- Three years of experience as a Dental Assistant preferred
• Prior customer service or front office experience in a healthcare or dental setting preferred.

Physical Demands

• Ability to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Frequent standing, walking, sitting, bending, and reaching throughout the workday.
• Manual dexterity and visual acuity required for clinical procedures and data entry.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 30 pounds.
• Extended periods of computer use and repetitive hand motions.

Work Environment

• Work is performed primarily in a dental clinic setting.
• Regular exposure to bodily fluids, bloodborne pathogens, chemicals, radiation, and sharp instruments.
• Compliance with infection control, PPE, and safety protocols is required.
• Moderate noise levels with frequent interaction with patients and clinical staff.
• May encounter stressful situations, including patients experiencing pain, anxiety, or emotional distress.

Disclaimer:

The above is intended to describe the job functions, the general supplemental functions and the essential requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of supplemental duties, responsibilities, or non-essential requirements.

Medical Associates Plus is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, veteran status, basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.