Associate Dentist

• Provide comprehensive dental care including routine exams, cleanings, fillings, extractions, and preventive care.
• Conduct thorough patient assessments and develop personalized, evidence-based treatment plans for each patient.
• Manage dental emergencies and complex cases as they arise, exercising sound clinical judgment within a rural setting with limited local specialty resources.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date patient records in compliance with all applicable regulations and Arthur Center health center policies.

PATIENT COMMUNICATION AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH INTEGRATION

• Communicate clearly and compassionately with patients and families, ensuring they feel informed, comfortable, and respected throughout their treatment.
• Recognize dental anxiety and behavioral health considerations during treatment, using calming techniques, positive reinforcement, and patient-centered strategies to build trust and improve the care experience.
• Demonstrate sensitivity to the needs of underserved and vulnerable populations, including patients with limited prior access to dental care.

INTEGRATED CARE AND TEAM COLLABORATION

• Work collaboratively with primary care providers, behavioral health clinicians, dental hygienists, and other healthcare professionals to deliver integrated, whole-person care.
• Provide guidance and clinical direction to dental assistants and support staff as needed.
• Support team development and quality improvement by sharing constructive, professional input within established clinical and organizational processes.
• Participate in community outreach and oral health education initiatives to promote oral health awareness across the communities we serve.
• Participate in staff meetings, quality improvement activities, and organizational committees as requested.

SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES:

• Strong clinical skills across comprehensive general dentistry with the ability to exercise independent professional judgment in challenging situations.
• Excellent patient communication skills - able to put patients of all ages and backgrounds at ease throughout treatment.
• Knowledge of behavioral health considerations in the dental setting, including techniques for managing anxiety and building patient trust.
• Understanding of public health dentistry and quality dental practices in an integrated care environment.
• Collaborative team player who leads with integrity and builds long-term relationships with patients, staff, and community partners.
• Committed to continuous professional development and staying current with dental technologies and techniques.
• Genuine commitment to serving rural and underserved communities.

REQUIREMENTS

• Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
• Active, unrestricted Missouri dental license
• Valid DEA and BNDD numbers
• Strong clinical skills in general dentistry
• Commitment to serving rural and underserved communities

PREFERRED:

• Experience managing dental anxiety and behavioral health considerations
• Experience in community health or integrated care settings
• Proficiency with digital dental technology

WORK SCHEDULE

• 40 hours per week with flexible scheduling options
  • Option: 4 days/week, 10 hours per day

• Base Salary: $185,000
• 401(k) with 6% employer match
• NHSC Loan Repayment: Eligible (HPSA Dental Score 25)

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance (2x salary, $300,000 cap)
• Paid Time Off + paid holidays
• Malpractice Insurance (employer-covered)

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

• Continuing education allowance and paid time for conferences and professional development

OTHER

• Bonus opportunities based on production
• Modern dental facilities
• Supportive team environment