Registered Dental Assistant or OA
How this pay compares
This posting states $25–$29 an hour. Open dental assistant jobs in California post a median of $27.50 an hour, the middle half $25–$30.45, across 101 jobs that state their pay, so this one is within the middle half of what they post. Dental assistants employed in California earn a median of $24.09 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).
What California requires of a dental assistant
Board-approved radiation safety course certificate (needed by all dental assistants, and for RDA licensure), from the Dental Board of California.
- Anyone exposing dental x-rays must pass a Board-approved radiation safety course (theory and hands-on technique) first (Bus. & Prof. Code 1656). Registered Dental Assistants also complete other Board-approved courses and exams.
Dentist, dental hygienist and dental assistant jobs in our research
- How long these jobs stay listed: Still listed at 7 days 90.3%
- Applicant demand per open job on this site (1.00x is the average job): Index 0.75x · Clicks 12
- How often these jobs state their pay: Jobs stating any pay 53.2% · Stating an hourly rate 38.9%
From every open job we read and every apply click on this site, as of 9 Nov 2026. Every figure for Dentist, dental hygienist and dental assistant jobs
About the job
Overview
Orthodontic Assistant OA or /Registered Dental Assistant (RDA)
Part Time position in our New San Diego Ortho Office
Join our Fun and friendly dental practice - great opportunity for career growth- Work with Pediatric Dentists, Orthodontists andAnesthesiologists
Summary: The Orthodontic Assistant/Registered Dental Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting orthodontic care by assisting in procedures, preparing treatment areas, managing instruments and supplies, and ensuring patient comfort. This role requires technical proficiency, compliance with safety protocols, and strong communication skills to provide quality orthodontic treatment.
Pay Range: $25.00 -$29.00 /hour (Based on experience)
CHOICE Healthcare Services is the largest provider of pediatric dental care in the Southwest United States, and we pride ourselves on delivering high quality care to children in our communities. Every day, thousands of people trust us to provide their families with healthy, radiant smiles.
What we provide to you as a CHOICE teammate:
- Care for your wellbeing and work-life balance
- Professional and personal growth
- Experienced leadership support
- Fun and supportive team dynamic with events and celebrations
- Comprehensive benefit package
Responsibilities
Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Duties include, but are not limited to:
Clinical Support & Patient Care
- Assist the orthodontist during all orthodontic procedures and adjustments.
- Take X-rays and ensure accurate diagnostic imaging.
- Educate patients on oral hygiene and orthodontic appliance care.
- Create a positive patient experience, providing exceptional customer service.
- Accurately chart treatment plans and document procedural details.
- Ensure treatment areas are properly stocked and sanitized before each procedure.
- Follow infection control and sterilization protocols per OSHA and HIPAA guidelines.
Orthodontic Procedures & Assistance
- Take impressions for study models and orthodontic appliances.
- Prepare teeth for bonding and assist with bracket and band placement.
- Place and remove orthodontic separators.
- Check for loose brackets and bands during patient visits.
- Fit, size, and place orthodontic bands.
- Remove brackets, bands, and archwires as directed by the orthodontist.
- Assist in the initial seating and fitting of orthodontic appliances.
Compliance & Administrative Duties
- Follow OSHA, HIPAA, and infection control protocols to maintain a safe and sterile environment.
- Participate in morning huddles and team meetings for patient coordination.
- Keep workstations clean, organized, and well-stocked.
- Support front office or other clinical duties as needed.
Qualifications
Education and/or Experience
- Three to six months of relevant experience and/or training preferred
- Bilingual in Spanish, preferred
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
- California Registered Dental Assistant or Orthodontic Assistant License required
- X-Ray Certification
- Coronal Polish Certification
- Current BLS certification
From Choice Healthcare Services's job posting, checked 9 Nov 2026. The employer's own page is the final word on requirements and availability.
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About Choice Healthcare Services
Choice Healthcare Services hires dental staff and front-office staff in California, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada and Colorado.
Hires in California, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, ColoradoPay on its listings: 48.6% of its open jobs state an hourly rate
More open jobs at Choice Healthcare Services
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