Dental Assistant Jobs (Expanded Function)

The Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, stands as one of the nation’s most advanced healthcare institutions. With a mission to deliver world-class medical care to military service members, veterans, and their families, the center seeks highly skilled professionals dedicated to excellence. The Dental Assistant (Expanded Function) position offers an opportunity to support the Department of Primary Care Dentistry in providing outstanding dental care. This role is vital in ensuring patients receive efficient, high-quality treatment in a well-organized clinical environment.

Why the Dental Assistant (Expanded Function) Role Matters

Dental assistants with expanded functions play a crucial role in modern dental practices. At Walter Reed, this position goes beyond basic chairside assistance to include advanced tasks such as constructing custom dental appliances, applying topical treatments, and educating patients on preventive care. By handling both technical and patient-centered responsibilities, this role helps improve workflow, reduce treatment time, and enhance overall patient satisfaction.

This position also supports the U.S. Department of Defense’s goal of providing comprehensive care to those who serve the nation. Your work will directly contribute to the health and well-being of military personnel and their families while helping the dental team deliver top-tier clinical outcomes.

Key Responsibilities for the Dental Assistant (Expanded Function)

As a Dental Assistant (Expanded Function), you will take on a diverse range of responsibilities to support both patients and dental professionals. Some primary duties include:

• Constructing athletic mouth guards, custom impression trays, and soft bite-guards.
• Maintaining a clear operating field using high-volume evacuators and suction tips.
• Applying topical anesthetics and medicaments under the direction of a licensed dentist.
• Obtaining preliminary impressions, fabricating custom trays, and preparing casts.
• Scheduling and preparing patients for dental treatment.
• Educating patients on preventive care techniques such as brushing, flossing, and oral hygiene.
• Documenting treatments accurately and ensuring compliance with clinical protocols.

This combination of clinical, technical, and administrative tasks makes the position both challenging and rewarding for the right candidate.

Qualifications and Specialized Experience Required

To qualify for this role, candidates must meet specific experience and certification standards. Applicants must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience in performing chairside dental assistant duties, including intra-oral procedures and operating dental x-ray equipment.

In addition, candidates must meet the federal radiology certification requirements under Public Law 97-35, which ensures all personnel performing radiologic procedures are properly trained and credentialed. Acceptable training programs may include:

1. Dental hygiene or dental assistant programs accredited by the American Dental Association’s Commission on Accreditation.
2. U.S. Army’s Dental Therapy Assistant Training Program.
3. Continuing education programs in expanded functions for dental assistants offered by federal agencies.
4. Equivalent formal training programs in hospitals, clinics, or schools that provide clinical instruction in intra-oral procedures.

Applicants must provide proof of certification and completion of these educational requirements with their application package.

Conditions of Employment and Certifications Needed

This position requires meeting several federal employment conditions to ensure both patient safety and compliance with regulations. Candidates must:

• Obtain and maintain Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from recognized providers such as the American Heart Association or American Red Cross.
• Undergo a Tier 3 security investigation and background check before employment.
• Comply with mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination requirements unless exempted for medical or religious reasons.
• Provide proof of U.S. citizenship and meet all federal employment eligibility standards.

These requirements ensure that all employees maintain the highest professional and ethical standards while serving in a military medical environment.

Skills and Attributes for Success

The ideal candidate for the Dental Assistant (Expanded Function) role will bring a mix of technical proficiency, attention to detail, and strong interpersonal skills. Success in this position requires:

• Excellent manual dexterity for performing intra-oral procedures.
• Knowledge of dental terminology, tools, and materials.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions while ensuring patient comfort.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• A commitment to patient education and preventive dental care.

These attributes help create a safe, efficient, and patient-centered environment that aligns with the medical center’s mission.

Career Benefits and Opportunities

Joining the dental team at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center comes with numerous professional and personal benefits, including:

• Competitive salary ranging from \$51,442 to \$66,872 per year with applicable locality pay.
• Comprehensive federal employee benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off, federal holidays, and retirement plan options.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
• A chance to serve military families and make a meaningful impact on their healthcare experience.

How to Apply for the Dental Assistant (Expanded Function) Position

Interested candidates can apply through the official USAJOBS platform by following these steps:

1. Visit USAJOBS.gov and locate the job announcement using the provided control number.
2. Prepare your application package, including your resume, certification documents, and any required forms.
3. Complete the online questionnaire linked in the job posting.
4. Upload all supporting documentation before the listed closing date: August 28, 2026.
5. Submit your application and monitor your USAJOBS account for status updates.

Timely and accurate submission is essential, as incomplete applications will not be considered.

Why This Role Is a Great Career Move

Working as a Dental Assistant (Expanded Function) at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center offers more than just a job—it provides a pathway to professional growth in a respected federal healthcare institution. With access to cutting-edge technology, collaboration with experienced dental professionals, and opportunities to expand your clinical skills, this role is perfect for individuals looking to advance in the dental field while serving those who serve the nation.