Oral Dental Assistant
- BLS
How this pay compares
This posting states $19–$25 an hour. Open dental assistant jobs in Tennessee post a median of $20.75 an hour, the middle half $20.50–$23, across 14 jobs that state their pay, so this one is within the middle half of what they post. Dental assistants employed in Tennessee earn a median of $22.46 an hour (source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics), according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025) (source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics).
About the job
Position Summary: Oral Surgery Assoc of Western TN is a well-established oral and maxillofacial surgery practice in Jackson, TN, committed to delivering exceptional, patient-centered care. We're seeking a dedicated, detail-oriented Surgical Assistant to support our oral surgeons, ensuring an efficient workflow and exceptional patient care throughout the surgical process. The ideal candidate is passionate about patient comfort and safety, with strong technical skills and a collaborative spirit.
Requirements
Preoperative Duties
- Prepare and sterilize surgical instruments and equipment according to OSHA and infection control guidelines.
- Set up the operating room with necessary tools, supplies, and medications.
- Review and update patient medical histories, allergies, and preoperative instructions.
- Provide preoperative patient education and answer questions regarding surgical procedures.
- Assist in administering anesthesia under the supervision of the surgeon and/or anesthetist.
Intraoperative Duties
- Assist the surgeon during procedures by handling instruments, retracting tissues, and ensuring clear visibility.
- Monitor and support patient vital signs as directed by the surgical team.
- Manage suction and irrigation to maintain a clean surgical field.
- Maintain compliance with infection control and safety protocols throughout the procedure.
Postoperative Duties
- Assist in patient recovery and monitor post-anesthesia conditions.
- Provide postoperative care instructions and schedule follow-up visits.
- Clean and restock the surgical suite for subsequent procedures.
- Ensure proper disposal of biohazardous materials and adherence to safety regulations.
Patient Care
- Address patient questions and concerns with empathy and professionalism.
- Provide pre- and post-operative support to patients.
Radiography
- Take dental radiographs as required
- Adhere to safety protocols when operating radiographic equipment to minimize exposure.
Infection Control
- Follow established procedures for infection control to maintain a clean and safe environment.
Additional Responsibilities
- Maintain accurate and detailed records of patients
- Input and manage patient data using dental software systems
- Monitor inventory levels and assist in ordering supplies to ensure the clinic is well-stocked
- Coordinate with front office staff for optimal patient flow
- Attend staff meetings and training sessions to stay updated on best practices and clinic protocols
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent required; completion of a dental assistant program preferred.
- X-ray license required.
- Current CPR/BLS certification required; RDA and/or DAANCE certification is a plus.
- Minimum of 1 year in a surgical or dental assisting role, preferably in oral & maxillofacial surgery.
- Proficiency in electronic medical records (EMR) systems, radiography (CBCT, panoramic X-rays), and surgical instrument handling.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Strong commitment to patient care and confidentiality.
- Strong attention to detail
Working Conditions/Physical Requirements
- This role is based in a clinical setting which requires maintaining a sterile and organized work environment.
- Typically full-time hours
- Moderate noise levels from dental and other lab equipment
- Must be able to stand for extended hours (up to 8 hours)
- Must have the ability to lift and maneuver supplies, typically weighing up to 35 pounds, and assist in moving patients when necessary
- Must have proficient hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills
- Frequent bending, twisting, and position changes to examine and service patients
Benefits
- 401(k) with 3% Non-Elective Safeharbor Contribution
- Dental Insurance
- Health insurance
- Vision insurance
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Health Savings Account
- Long-term disability
- Short-term disability
- Voluntary life insurance
- Paid time off
Allied OMS is a doctor-owned, doctor-led, and doctor-governed management services organization (MSO) in the oral and maxillofacial surgery space that combines the best of private practice with the best of private equity.
Leveraging decades of experience building platform businesses in the healthcare industry and collectively owned by member surgeons, private equity, and management consulting veterans, Allied OMS offers essential tools for maximizing practice value.
Grounded in clinical excellence, doctors in the Allied OMS network maintain essential roles in management, governance, and clinical practice and participate directly in the platform's growth. Seventy-five percent of the Allied OMS board of directors are doctor members, and Allied OMS doctors lead 100% of the platform's management committees.
Founded in 2020 in partnership with DuneGlass Capital, a healthcare services-focused independent sponsor, the Allied OMS network now includes 83 doctors serving patients from 49 locations in Arizona, California, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, New York, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia.
From Allied OMS's job posting, checked 4 Nov 2026. The employer's own page is the final word on requirements and availability.
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