Dental School Clinical Instructor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving world of healthcare, the focus on dental school clinical instructors has become increasingly prominent.

As advancements continue in dental care and practices, the demand for skilled professionals who can educate, guide, and mentor the next generation of dentists grows.

But let’s dig deeper: What is really expected from a dental school clinical instructor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the behind-the-scenes of dental education,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable dental school clinical instructor job description template, designed for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Dental School Clinical Instructor Duties and Responsibilities

Dental School Clinical Instructors play a critical role in educating and guiding aspiring dentists.

They must possess a thorough understanding of dental procedures, patient care, and instructional methods.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Teaching dental students the basics of dentistry and advanced dental procedures.
• Supervising dental students in the clinic to ensure they are applying their knowledge correctly and are adhering to ethical standards.
• Providing hands-on instruction in patient examination, diagnosis, and treatment planning.
• Assessing students’ practical skills and providing constructive feedback to enhance their learning.
• Coordinating with other faculty members to develop and revise the dental curriculum.
• Staying updated with the latest advancements in dentistry and incorporating these into the teaching curriculum.
• Helping students develop their communication skills to interact effectively with patients.
• Ensuring the clinic’s compliance with safety and sanitation regulations.
• Providing support and guidance to students on their research projects.
• Mentoring students on their career paths and professional development.

 

Dental School Clinical Instructor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Dental School Clinical Instructor to provide guidance, training, and mentorship to dental students.

Your responsibilities will include overseeing students’ clinical work, ensuring quality dental care, and teaching dental procedures and techniques.

Our ideal candidate is a seasoned dental professional with a passion for education and a commitment to shaping the future of dentistry.

You should have a comprehensive understanding of dental procedures and excellent communication skills.

Ultimately, the Dental School Clinical Instructor will help cultivate a supportive learning environment that prepares students for success in the field of dentistry.

 

Responsibilities

• Supervise and instruct dental students in the clinic and pre-clinical settings
• Monitor students’ progress and provide constructive feedback
• Ensure adherence to all safety and hygiene protocols
• Assist in the development and implementation of curricula
• Conduct assessments to evaluate students’ clinical competency
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in dental technology and techniques
• Participate in school meetings and professional development sessions
• Collaborate with colleagues to improve instruction methods

 

Qualifications

• Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree
• Current state dental license
• Minimum of 3 years of clinical experience
• Experience in education or a similar role is preferred
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong understanding of dental procedures and patient care
• Committed to continuous learning and professional development

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Dental School Clinical Instructor
• Work Environment: University dental clinic, classrooms, and pre-clinical labs. May require occasional weekend or evening hours.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Department Chair or Dean of the Dental School.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our institution. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, state dental license, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Dental School Clinical Instructor Do?

Dental School Clinical Instructors are highly experienced dental professionals who provide education and training to aspiring dentists at dental colleges or universities.

Their primary responsibility is to guide students in the clinical practice of dentistry.

They instruct students on various dental procedures, techniques, and best practices.

They demonstrate the correct use of dental tools and equipment, and oversee students as they perform procedures on patients in a clinical setting.

They also provide theoretical instruction, delivering lectures on a range of dental topics and leading discussions in classroom settings.

Their job may involve designing course curriculum, developing lesson plans, and assessing student performance through exams and practical tests.

Dental School Clinical Instructors also have a responsibility to ensure that all clinical activities are conducted in a manner that is safe, ethical, and in compliance with professional standards and regulations.

They play a crucial role in instilling in their students a commitment to continuous learning, professional development, and high standards of patient care.

In addition, they may conduct research, contribute to academic papers, and participate in professional conferences and workshops.

They may also provide mentorship and career advice to students, helping to shape the next generation of dental professionals.

 

Dental School Clinical Instructor Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Dental School Clinical Instructor should possess the skills and qualifications that match your job description, such as:

• Extensive clinical experience and knowledge in various fields of dentistry to provide a comprehensive and well-rounded education for students.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to connect with students, fostering an engaging and dynamic learning environment.
• Strong leadership and mentoring abilities to guide students through their practical coursework and clinical experiences.
• Problem-solving skills to help students navigate complex dental cases and learn to devise effective treatment plans.
• Ability to maintain up-to-date knowledge in dental advancements and technologies, and incorporate them into the curriculum.
• Organizational skills to manage class schedules, assess student progress, and maintain records of students’ clinical experiences.
• Patience and empathy to understand and accommodate diverse student needs and learning styles.
• Strong ethics and professionalism to model appropriate behavior and instill these values in students.

 

Dental School Clinical Instructor Experience Requirements

Dental School Clinical Instructors are typically required to have a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree from an accredited dental school.

They should also have a valid state license to practice dentistry.

Instructors generally require a minimum of 5 years of clinical experience in general dentistry or a dental specialty.

They must have a solid understanding of dental practices and procedures, as well as a strong background in patient care.

Prior teaching experience, although not necessary, can be beneficial.

Experience in supervising and training dental students in a clinical setting is often preferred.

Those with more than 10 years of experience may have held leadership positions in their previous roles, and may be considered for higher-level positions within the dental school.

Additionally, instructors should maintain their professional development through ongoing education and training, as the field of dentistry is constantly evolving.

They must stay current on the latest research and advancements in dental care and education.

In some cases, Dental School Clinical Instructors may also be required to have a specific amount of continuing education credits or to be board certified in their specialty.

 

Dental School Clinical Instructor Education and Training Requirements

To become a Dental School Clinical Instructor, an individual must first earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree from an accredited dental school.

This typically requires a bachelor’s degree in a science-related field and successful completion of the Dental Admission Test (DAT).

Along with the DDS or DMD degree, they also need to have a valid license to practice dentistry.

The licensing requirements vary by state, but generally include passing the National Board Dental Examinations as well as a state or regional clinical examination.

Experience in clinical practice is a crucial requirement for this position.

Some institutions may require a minimum number of years of experience in dental practice, while others may accept a combination of teaching and clinical experience.

Many positions also prefer candidates with a specialty certification, which requires additional years of postgraduate training in a specific area of dentistry such as periodontics, orthodontics, or oral and maxillofacial surgery, among others.

Some dental schools may require their instructors to have a master’s degree or a PhD, particularly if the role involves research or administrative duties.

Continuing education is crucial in this role to stay updated with the latest advancements in dental technology and procedures.

This can be achieved through seminars, workshops, or further study.

Leadership skills, excellent communication, and a passion for teaching are also essential for a Dental School Clinical Instructor.

 

Dental School Clinical Instructor Salary Expectations

A Dental School Clinical Instructor can expect to earn an average salary of $105,600 (USD) per year.

However, this figure can fluctuate depending on factors such as the instructor’s level of experience, the location of the dental school, and the specific contract terms of the employing institution.

 

Dental School Clinical Instructor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Dental School Clinical Instructor need?

Dental School Clinical Instructors should have excellent communication and leadership skills.

They should be adept at explaining complex dental procedures and concepts in an easy-to-understand manner.

Strong practical skills in dentistry are essential, as is having patience and the ability to provide constructive feedback.

They should also have good administrative skills for grading and tracking student progress.

 

Do Dental School Clinical Instructors need a specific degree?

Yes, Dental School Clinical Instructors should have a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree.

Additionally, they must have completed their residency and should have a few years of practical experience.

Some schools may also require a teaching certificate or a master’s degree in education.

 

What should you look for in a Dental School Clinical Instructor resume?

A Dental School Clinical Instructor resume should showcase their clinical skills and experience, teaching experience, and any specialized knowledge or expertise in certain areas of dentistry.

Additionally, look for strong communication and leadership skills, as well as a commitment to professional development.

Their resume should also mention their licensure and any additional certifications.

 

What qualities make a good Dental School Clinical Instructor?

A good Dental School Clinical Instructor is patient, empathetic, and has a passion for teaching.

They should be capable of simplifying complex dental concepts and procedures to help students learn effectively.

They should be committed to maintaining high educational standards and should have excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.

They should also be comfortable providing constructive feedback and able to inspire and motivate students.

 

How demanding is the role of a Dental School Clinical Instructor?

The role of a Dental School Clinical Instructor can be quite demanding.

They need to balance their time between teaching, administrative tasks, and staying up-to-date with the latest developments in dentistry.

It’s a role that requires a high level of dedication, patience, and a commitment to nurturing the next generation of dentists.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve taken a deep dive into what it truly means to be a Dental School Clinical Instructor.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about teaching dentistry.

It’s about molding the future of dental healthcare, one student at a time.

With our comprehensive Dental School Clinical Instructor job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating laser-sharp job listings or refining your resume to precision.

Remember:

Every student you guide becomes a part of the broader dental healthcare community.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

How to Become a Dental School Clinical Instructor (Complete Guide)

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